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Group rides will be starting the first week of May 2011.
Tuesdays are on-road rides of 20-40 miles. The ride will leave from the front of the shop at 6:00pm. Average pace is around 17 mph, but we tend to string out and regroup at intersections.
Thursdays are off-road rides of 10-25 miles. The ride will leave from the front of the shop at 6:00pm. We usually get together for some food and beer on the patio of the Corner Bar afterwards.
You don't have to be an expert or have a fancy bike to do these rides, but you should be in reasonable shape and able to ride up hills. The rides typically are medium pace, but we'll try to break up into groups if some people want to go faster or slower.
If you are a total beginner, these rides are not for you. We can suggest some easy routes for you to get comfortable on the bike before you ride with the group.
I'd like to see someone volunteer to lead rides for beginners and those that want to do some slower-paced riding-- if someone wants to step up and do this--feel free to do so.
Sometimes parking in front of the shop is limited, so parking is available off Mechanic Street at Monago's or the Grace Lutheran Church lots for no charge.
Rules: READ THIS--or you may put the group at risk!
Helmets are required.
Your bike must be in good shape--I work on bikes all day at the shop--don't make me work on your bike after work.
Head and Tail lights required in early and late season.
Always ride on the right side of the road on public roads and in single file in busy areas.
You should at least bring water, a snack, an extra tube, pump/CO2, multi-tool, and a jacket in cooler temps.
Leg and arm warmers, wind jackets or vests are also a good idea on the nights when temps drop quickly.
Be prepared for rain!
Road-Specific Rules:
No Aero Bar Use on Road Rides!!!!! Aero bars are stupid and dangerous in groups. I will make fun of you!
When leading a paceline on road rides, keep a steady pace--don't accelerate when you take your pull. When you get tired at the front--take a look back and pull off to the left, slow down, and fall in at the back. The paceline will move forward.
The last riders are responsible for watching for cars. If a car is coming from behind and riders ahead are not single file, yell "Car back" Riders in the lead should yell "Car up" if an oncoming car poses a potential problem.
Potholes, large road debris, and railroad tracks should be pointed or yelled out well in advance by lead riders.
If you are slowing down, hold an open palm down. Point out left and right turns in advance.
If you ride next to someone, stay shoulder to shoulder--don't overlap wheels of a rider who can't see you.
Save the chit-chat for quiet roads--stay on your toes in busy areas!!
The Troops lining up to go for a Thursday night group ride:
Finishing up a Thursday night ride ready to hit some sweet Bradford singletrack and pound some Yeung-daddys and Corner Bar wings:
