E-Bikes Are Common on SMBC Rides
It has become the rule rather than the exception that most SMBC rides include E-bike cyclists in addition to non-motorized cyclists. SMBC warmly welcomes all class 1 & 3 E-bike cyclists on all its rides. The advent of E-bikes has allowed many of our members to continue to enjoy cycling when they otherwise may not have been able to do so.
All cyclists need to be aware of and exhibit proper etiquette when riding in a paceline. This includes when starting, stopping and maintaining a smooth consistent speed inside the designated speed range. There may be some conditions that E-bike cyclists are less affected by. There are no long uphill grades in this part of Florida, but we can experience strong headwinds and long rides.
Under such circumstances, all cyclists need to be aware of the other riders in their group when acting as the lead rider. This may mean adjusting speed below even minimum speed level in the range in order to avoid creating gaps and keeping all riders together at a comfortable pace.
More so than regular riders, E-bikers are recommended to ride with mirrors to ensure they know their position in the pace line at all times. The ride leader is ultimately responsible for ensuring that the pace is at the appropriate level and is encouraged to cover this topic during pre-ride briefings when e-bikes are present.
Emmanuel Charron Ride leader captain
Chris King Safety coordinator