Our rides prioritize safety, courtesy, and enjoyment for all participants. These guidelines ensure everyone has a positive experience while riding together on public roads.
Safety First
Traffic Laws
Obey all traffic laws and be courteous to fellow riders and other road users.
Ride Preparation
Bring spare tubes, tire levers, and inflation gear. Carry cash/card for emergencies.
Group Dynamics
Choose a group matching your fitness level. All rides are "no drop" but similar abilities prevent constant regrouping.
Basic Safety Rules
Riding Formation
Ride no more than two abreast and no more than one meter apart. Position yourself handlebar to handlebar with the rider beside you.
Pace Management
Keep pace smooth and steady. Don't brake, surge or change direction suddenly. Avoid "half wheeling," especially at the front.
Communication
Communicate constantly with verbal calls and hand signals. Pass calls up or down the line to keep everyone informed.
Hand Signals
Hand signals are essential for safe group riding. From left to right: Right Turn, Left Turn, Stopping, Slowing, and Object Avoidance. These visual cues help maintain group safety when verbal communication is difficult.
Verbal Calls
Lane Changes and Traffic
"Wait" - Not safe to change lanes.
"Over" - Safe to change lanes.
"Hold the lane" - Stay in current lane.
"Car back/up" - Vehicle approaching from behind/front.
Formation Changes
"Single up" - Change from 2 abreast to single file.
"Pair up" - Return to 2 abreast riding.
"Ease up" - Slow down for dropped riders.
Hazards and Obstacles
"Hole" - Dangerous hole ahead.
"Rubbish" - Obstruction on road.
"Door" - Potential car door opening.
"Mechanical" - Rider has equipment problem.
Bunch Riding Etiquette
Follow the Leader
Listen for the group leader's instructions and obey them at all times. Ride leaders provide guidance and organise the group on the road.
Proper Rotation
When rotating lead positions, move to the left to allow the next riders to move up. New leaders should take up the pace gradually - never surge.
Group Integrity
If the bunch splits, call out "split" and slow down to regroup. Always check "all on?" before resuming normal pace.
What Not To Do
No Dangerous Riding
Lane CoVélo will not tolerate dangerous riding such as overtaking/passing on "the inside".
No Aero Tucking
Avoid aero tucking while in the bunch. The "top-tube tuck" is not permitted on Lane CoVélo rides.
No Wheel Overlap
Do not overlap with the wheel in front within the bunch - this creates dangerous situations.
No Sudden Movements
Never brake suddenly or change direction without warning when riding in formation.
Additional Resources
Tour de Cure Guide
Comprehensive etiquette guide with additional tips and safety information. View PDF Guide
Video Tutorial
Visual demonstration of proper bunch riding techniques and etiquette. Watch Video
Your first 80km ride
A fun video showing what you might experience on your first 80km ride. Watch Video
Cycling Rules and Etiquette