Group Riding and Etiquette

Riding in a large group for the first time can be quite daunting. If you get the chance to get out on the road with some other cyclists of a similar ability, it will bring on your speed and handling, and also reduce the fear of being in a large group.

Starting in a group of similar speed and ability will help keep your Etape Loch Ness experience smoother. With less big changes in pace, this will prevent large groups passing other slower groups which can lead to confusion and heavy braking.

LOOK, THINK, COMMUNICATE.

It is important riders have an understanding of how to pass other cyclists with care. Think about a 3-4 lane motorway where you stay in the inside left lane unless you go to overtake a slower vehicle. When you go to overtake, you ensure nothing is passing you on the right, if it’s clear then you move out and pass.

Group riding is no different, and there should be no big erratic changes in direction as you may well wipe out the front wheel of the rider/s coming up from behind. Always listen out for a shout from faster riders from behind and keep left to allow them to pass safely.

Remember in a group it’s common for the riders in the middle not to see some of the obstacles or hazards in the road ahead. Calling out obstacles in the road such as potholes, cattle grids, riders stopped with mechanicals or a change in direction at junctions is good rider etiquette.

Confident riders will mark out obstacles by pointing them out, but some riders may prefer to call instead. These are the most common calls:

• INSIDE – lets riders know where a hazard or obstacle is e.g. a pothole or car on left hand side.
• OUTSIDE – indicates there is an obstacle on right hand side e.g. a pothole or car.
• EASY – lets riders know there is an obstacle or a slower group in front with little room to pass, a vehicle in the way or something blocking the road.
• LEFT/RIGHT – indicates there is a change in direction at a junction.

Please follow these simple steps to help ensure the safety of all those participating:

• LOOK, THINK, COMMUNICATE
• Try to maintain a predictable cycling line on the route – don’t swerve suddenly.
• If you need to stop or change direction, please indicate your intention to other riders.
• If you notice potential obstacles or hazards ahead, let your fellow riders know.
• Cycle at a sensible speed and be aware of the variable quality of the road surface.
• Keep to the left-hand side of the road where possible, allowing others riding more quickly to pass on your right.
• If you need to get off your bike on hilly sections, always walk on the left allowing as much space as possible for riders to pass to the right. Stay alert! Emergency vehicles are required to attend incidents along the closed roads during the event, so be prepared to give way, stop and pull off the road for any emergency vehicles that require access.
• Expect emergency vehicles on the route at any point, either crossing or driving along the route in both directions.
• Follow instructions given to you by event officials and marshals at all times.
• Finally, the Etape Loch Ness is NOT a race, and you should not compromise your own safety – and that of other cyclists and spectators around you – by riding the sportive as if it was a race.

As you approach and cross the finish line, please continue to ride safely and sensibly until you dismount and be aware of marshals and others riders around you.

British Cycling has some useful RideSmart video clips on all aspects of taking part in a sportive which we recommend watching.

RideSmart Guide to Sportive Etiquette

RideSmart How to Ride in a Group