For several years a group of WVCC riders have been meeting for training rides on Saturdays (occasionally mid-week also) up until now these have been by invitation only, however with the introduction of this new forum I thought it was time to make more people aware of these rides.

If you wish to join one of these rides please ensure you read the notes below before turning up.

1. These rides are not suitable for novices you are expected to have some bunch riding or racing experience.
2. Unlike Sunday club runs we do not generally wait for slower riders so you are expected to know your way home should you get dropped.
3. No riders under 18 years of age unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.

If you're still interested please read on...

BUNCH RIDING RULES AND ETIQUETTE
Riding 2 abreast
Pair off in formation of never more than 2 abreast. Certain roads might require single file.
No Half wheeling
Half wheeling is when the person next to you rides with their front wheel slightly in front of yours and the speed gradually increases as you try to level up. Ride beside the person next to you, not in front of them.
Pedal on downhills
The leaders of the group should never coast on the downhills as this leads to the group behind bunching up and causes unnecessary braking.
Fill the gap
If there is a gap next to you, then signal for someone to fill the gap from behind, or you can peel off to the rear of the bunch.
Loud and clear calls
As the people behind can’t generally see where they are going, the leaders have to be the ‘eyes’ of the bunch. Point to all obstacles (holes etc) and communicate the problem in a loud, clear voice.
Constant pace
Keep the pace smooth and steady, particularly on up-hills. Avoid surging when you come to the front of the bunch
Road rules
Obey all road rules, including stopping at red lights.
Be predictable in all actions
Avoid sudden braking or changes in direction. To slow down move gently out into the wind and sit up a little to brake without braking hard.
Ride Leaders
Follow the directions of the ride leader
Aerobars
Whilst riding in a bunch, no athletes are to be down on their aerobars (regardless of their ability/experience).
Bike skills
If you are not confident of your bike handling ability or feel that the pace is too fast for you to do a proper turn on the front of the bunch then request to stay at the back of the bunch and call people to change in front you. The ride leaders would encourage you to have a turn even if only to learn techniques for changing positions in the bunch.
Clean bike
Keep your bike well-serviced, clean and with good tyres. An un-roadworthy bike is a danger to everyone in the bunch.