• BE READY

• STAY ALERT

• FOLLOW THE LAW

• BE VISIBLE

• BE CONFIDENT

• BE PREDICTABLE

• COMMUNICATE

from The League of American Bicyclists

A group ride is a ride in which all cyclists form a single-file line in the road and ride quite close to the rider in front of them.

In close proximity such as this, all riders behind the leader benefit from the aerodynamic effects of the head rider blocking the wind.

A drawback of this practice is limited sight distance. Oncoming traffic, traffic signals, turns, pedestrians, potholes and debris all require prior notice.

This notice is achieved through verbal and hand signals that are passed ‘down the line’ starting with the lead rider. These signals must be established before the ride begins and must be employed uniformly by all participants. 

Some group rides stay together in a single line with one ride leader and little movement among the group.

Other group rides incorporate pace lines with their group. A pace line occurs when one rider pulls a line of other riders behind them.

Each person follows the rider in front of them by staying within a few inches to a few feet of their leader's rear wheel. This area of least wind resistance is known as a slipstream. Each rider takes a turn in the lead.

Below are hands signals that are different that what SMBC commonly uses. These may be used by visitors or newcomers to the club.
Therefore, it is advised that all groups go over the hand signals they plan to use each ride to help keep the communication understood within the group.