Northampton cycling club

All participants in NCC groups rides are required to sign a waiver. This is done when riders sign up for a ride. They can also sign the waiver online here.

As a ride leader, you have the opportunity and responsibility to help those around you develop and refine the skills needed to ride safely in a group.

Ride leaders also have the authority to enforce rules if needed, including the following: 

• Riders should be single file except when the width of the road or shoulder allows for side-by-side riding.
  
• Point out road debris and dangerous conditions to riders behind you.
• Don’t overlap wheels with the rider in front of you. The forward rider needs the ability to avoid road hazards without hitting you!
• When riding in a pace line, keep your speed consistent. Avoid sudden accelerations or braking. 
• The yellow line rule applies under all circumstances (don’t cross the yellow line or the road center line). 
• Always follow the rules of the road, i.e., stop at stop signs, red lights, give pedestrians in walkways the right-of-way, etc. If in doubt, read the Massachusetts Bike Laws Summary
• When passing slower riders, always pass on the left.
• Riders should be as far right as is safe to do so, preferably to the right of the white line.
• When pulling to the left (when passing slower riders or descending back from the front of a pace line) always look back first.

Additional resources for leading group rides: 

Ride safety protocols

Post group rides to Ride With GPS