Club Rules & Etiquette

Safety First

Mandatory Safety Requirements

• Helmet Use: All riders must wear a properly fitted cycling helmet at all times
• Bike Condition: Ensure your bike is roadworthy with working brakes, gears, and lights
• Visibility: Wear bright clothing and use lights when required
• Emergency Contact: Carry emergency contact information and medical details

Group Riding Etiquette

Riding Formation

• Ride no more than two abreast when safe to do so
• Single out when vehicles need to overtake
• Maintain a steady pace and avoid sudden movements
• Keep a safe distance from the rider in front

Communication

• Call out hazards clearly: "Hole left", "Car back", "Stopping"
• Use hand signals for turning and stopping
• Pass warnings down the line to riders behind
• Keep conversations at a reasonable volume

Road Rules Compliance

• Obey all traffic laws and highway code
• Stop at red lights and give way at junctions
• Respect other road users including pedestrians
• Use cycle lanes where appropriate and safe
• Signal intentions clearly and in good time

Club Ride Procedures

Before the Ride

• Arrive on time for the scheduled start
• Introduce yourself to new riders
• Inform the ride leader of any fitness concerns
• Ensure you have sufficient water and nutrition

During the Ride

• Stay with the group - no racing ahead
• Help less experienced riders when needed
• Offer assistance if someone has mechanical issues
• Follow the designated route and ride leader's instructions

After the Ride

• Thank the ride leader and fellow riders
• Help with any post-ride activities
• Provide feedback if requested

General Behaviour Standards

On the Bike

• Maintain a positive and encouraging attitude
• Be patient with riders of different abilities
• Offer help and support to fellow club members
• Represent the club positively in the community

Off the Bike

• Treat all members with respect and courtesy
• Support club events and activities
• Follow social media guidelines when posting about the club
• Pay membership fees and event costs promptly

Event Participation

• Register for events in advance where required
• Notify organizers if you cannot attend after registering
• Arrive prepared with appropriate equipment and clothing
• Follow specific event rules and safety briefings
• Participate in a spirit of fun and camaraderie

Disputes & Grievances

Informal Resolution

Most issues can be resolved through open and respectful communication between the parties involved.

Formal Procedure

1. Submit your concern in writing to the club committee
2. The committee will investigate the matter fairly
3. All parties will have the opportunity to present their case
4. A decision will be communicated within 14 days
5. Appeals can be made to the full membership if necessary

Contact for Grievances

Email: stortfordearlybirds@gmail.com

Disciplinary Action

• Verbal warning
• Written warning
• Temporary suspension from activities
• Termination of membership (in extreme cases)

These rules are reviewed annually and all members are expected to be familiar with them. Last updated: January 2024.