Leading a Ride
Leading a Ride
Plan a route to the destination. The plan should include roads, distances and travel times.
Check weather forecast.
Book a venue for lunch. Expect around 25 riders on a sunny day, fewer if conditions are damp or another event is in progress.
Arrive at the departure point at least half an hour before departure time.
Welcome the riders.
Circulate ride book for riders to record their details.
Issue “See Me” flags as required.
Brief the riders, describing the route and location of morning tea and lunch stops.
Confirm who will be the Tail End Charlie.
Check communication devices (e.g. radio / bluetooth).
Check that all riders are on their bikes and ready before heading off.
Stick to the speed limit, even 5-10 km/h below. You will be surprised how easy it is to leave riders behind, particularly when passing through traffic lights or busy areas.
Keep an eye on the riders behind you. Slow down if they fall back, it is probably for others to catch up.
Enjoy your ride! It is a great feeling to be leading your friends and they appreciate your efforts.
At morning tea, allow about 30 minutes for refreshment and comfort stops. Advise all riders 5-10 minutes before the ride resumes.
At lunch, relax and enjoy as the official role of Ride Leader is complete and everyone can decide which way and when to go home. Some may go their own way, others may prefer to accompany the Ride Leader.
It is your call as to whether the ride is on or not.
If you choose to cancel (e.g. due to bad weather) contact a committee member to organise a message broadcast to riders.
You or a delegate will still need to be at the departure point should anyone turn up.
Happy ride leading!