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Cyclist's Code of Conduct

Cycling-Inform strongly supports the cycling code of conduct in an effort to help create a culture amongst all cyclists to be more responsible and take ownership of their conduct when using the roads. It is based upon cyclists adopting a Self-Regulated Code of Conduct when using the roads. The Self-Regulated Code of Conduct for cyclists will assist in making the roads a safer place for all road users.

As the number of bikes and cars on our roads increases, we all have a role to play when we head out on the road, and that is to be responsible every time. We all have a right to use the road. However to ensure safety and mutual respect, responsible cycling and driving is essential for a good relationship on our roads. We all make mistakes. Be courteous and anticipate others’ mistakes. Always look to improve your own driving and cycling by getting more information and being prepared to acknowledge your own mistakes so as not to repeat them. And remember, in an increasingly obese and polluted world where the roads are congested, cycling tackles all three issues.

  • Stop at red lights – you will gain the respect of motorists and it’s the law!
  • Keep to the left on the road to allow clear passage for passing traffic
  • Wear a helmet, brightly coloured clothing and have lights on your bike
  • Be predictable and always indicate your intentions.
  • Ride two abreast but be courteous if the road narrows.
  • Communication is the key – when riding with others signal or call your intentions and hazards to ensure your safety and the safety of those near you.
  • At lights and intersections, stay in position behind queued vehicles rather than rolling up the side of stopped traffic.
Here are some tips on bunch manners:
  • Never Leave your Buddies Behind - Keep it together when you are riding with your regular bunch. Wait for people that get dropped on the hills and stop for people that get punchers. And if they do get a puncher help them out (if you are a pro puncher repairer) so that your bunch can all get going again quickly.
  • Don't be a Cycling Snob - Labeling cyclists by fitness, gear, or lack there of is not good form. If we hope to improve the perception of cycling for new riders as well as the public, it begins with our ability to embrace each other. Recognise your fellow cyclist as they pass and acknowledge them, no matter why they ride.
  • Call Passing - Riding in a group or passing another, acknowledge your existence as you pass. Let them know you are there and be courteous (read tip 2 above) as you do, no matter how fast you are going.
  • Help riders in trouble - When another cyclist is in trouble, even if that cyclist is not in your group or on your training ride, as you pass simply shout, "need some help?" By doing this, we encourage cyclists to 'pay it forward to others'.
  • Encourage the Newbies - New cyclists are the lifeblood of the sport and always should be welcome. If you ride in a group, take some time to talk with the new rider and get to know them. Talk to them about their bike, training, and their goals.
  • Share your Knowledge - It's so easy as a more experienced cyclist to judge other riders. If you feel you have something of value, share it, but don't shout it. Better to show someone the correct way to do something that curse them out. No one wants to be shouted at. if you see someone make a mistake, kindly correct them and they are more likely to fix the problem.
  • Share Turns at the front - Allow everyone to the front so you can grow together as a group.
  • Cutting in Line. If you are the one falling back in line and choose to 'cut back in', let people know you're going to do it. Us your right hand and point, right where you want to go. Verbalise it. Then, when the rider lets you in front of them, give them a nod or wave.
  • Nice Pull! One of the best things you can do as a cyclist in a group is offer a comment as the rider just coming off the front is rotating back. "Nice pull" is always welcome for any cyclist of any level. Again, people pass on their energy make others do the same.
  • Let people know you are pulling in - When you're rotating in a group and you know you are the last person in the line moving to the front, as you pass the person, let them know that you are the last person, so they have a reference to veer back in.
  • Ask permission to join a group - It's a bit like crashing a party. If you join a bunch while out riding it's polite to ask if it's ok. You'll generally find that it will be but don't be discouraged if the answer is no. Some groups will be training with specific goals in mind like practicing rolling turns, speed work or intervals where the involvement from an outsiders may cause confusion or be dangerous. If you are invited, hang out at the back (don't try to join in halfway down the bunch) and roll turns only if it is appropriate.

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