Helmets must be worn unless a disability prevents it (proof required, and management must approve exemptions).
Hi-vis clothing is required for on-road riding.
Be respectful and polite.
Handle club equipment and bikes with care.
Respect others' personal boundaries and choices.
Unscheduled stops must be agreed upon by the Session Leader and participants unless for health/safety reasons.
Disputes will be resolved through the club’s agreement process.
Children under 16 must be supervised by an adult (minimum participant age: 6).
No alcohol or drugs are allowed during rides. Participants must comply with UK cycling laws.
A minimum of two Session Leaders is required for a ride.
All participants must have a bicycle (personal or borrowed from the club).
Changes to rules require management team approval.
An M-check or ABC check is mandatory for new members' bikes before the ride.
Session Leaders may adjust the route for health and safety reasons.
Additional Notes
Risk assessments are conducted for all rides.
A first aider is present on every ride.
Why is "Knowing Your Bike" Important?
Safety: Understanding how your brakes work and ensuring your bike is in good repair is crucial for safe riding.
Efficiency: A well-maintained and properly fitted bike will allow you to ride more efficiently and with less effort.
Longevity: Regular maintenance will help extend the lifespan of your bike and its components.
Problem Solving: Knowing your bike can help you identify and potentially fix minor issues on the go.
Enjoyment: A comfortable and well-functioning bike makes riding more enjoyable.
During the M-check, you follow your bike in the shape of an M typically looking for:
Back Wheel:
Tyre pressure and condition: Is the back wheel inflated properly? Any cuts or bulges?
Wheel security: Is the back wheel properly attached (quick release or nuts)? Any loose spokes?
Saddle:
Saddle and seat post: Is the saddle secure and at the correct height?
Pedal:
Chain and drive train: Is the chain clean and lightly lubricated? Do the gears shift smoothly?
Pedals and cranks: Are they securely attached and do they spin freely?
Handlebars:
Handlebars and stem: Are they tight and aligned? Is the headset (where the fork meets the frame) free of play?
Brakes: Do the levers feel firm? Do the brakes effectively stop the wheels? Are the cables/hoses in good condition?
Back Wheel:
Tyre pressure and condition: Is the back wheel inflated properly? Any cuts or bulges?
Wheel security: Is the back wheel properly attached (quick release or nuts)? Any loose spokes?
The M-check is a quick way to identify potential problems before they lead to a breakdown or a safety hazard during your ride.
During The ABC Check You follow The ABC Rules and typically look for:
A - Air:
Tyre pressure and condition: Are the wheel's inflated properly? Any cuts or bulges?
B - Brakes:
Brakes: Do the levers feel firm? Do the brakes effectively stop the wheels? Are the cables/hoses in good condition?
C - Chain:
Chain and drive train: Is the chain clean and lightly lubricated? Do the gears shift smoothly?
Pedals and cranks: Are they securely attached and do they spin freely?
The ABC check is a quick, Systematic way to perform a pre-ride safety inspection on a bicycle. It's designed to ensure your bike is mechanically sound before you head out, helping to prevent accidents or breakdowns.
Many people call this the ABC Quick Check. The final step is to ensure that the Quick Release Levers on your wheels and seat post are closed tightly and pointing toward the back of the bike so they don't catch on anything