At Slough Cycling Club, we prioritise safety, respect, and enjoyment on the road.

Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to group cycling, following proper etiquette ensures a positive experience for everyone. We've also incorporated relevant aspects of the UK Highway Code to ensure we comply with the law and best practices on the road.

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1. Safety First

• Wear a Helmet: Helmets are mandatory for all rides. Ensure it fits properly and is fastened securely.

• Use Lights and Reflectors: According to the UK Highway Code, it’s a legal requirement to have front (white) and rear (red) lights when cycling at night, along with a rear red reflector. Make sure they’re always charged and in good working order.

• Check Your Bike: Before each ride, inspect your bike's brakes, tyres, and drivetrain. Carry essentials such as a spare inner tube, tire levers, and a pump.

• Wear Visible Clothing: The Highway Code recommends wearing bright or reflective clothing to make yourself visible to other road users, especially in poor visibility conditions.

 

2. Obey Traffic Laws (As Per the UK Highway Code)

• Follow the Rules of the Road: Cyclists are required to obey all traffic signals, signs, and road markings. Ride predictably and in line with traffic laws.

• Ride in the Correct Position: The Highway Code advises cyclists to ride in the centre of the lane on quieter roads, narrow lanes, or when approaching junctions where it would be unsafe for a car to overtake. When it’s safe, allow vehicles to pass by keeping left.

• Signal Clearly: Use hand signals to communicate your intentions—left arm out for left turns, right arm out for right turns, and a raised hand to indicate stopping.

• Cycle Lanes and Tracks: While you are not obliged to use cycle lanes or tracks, the Highway Code suggests using them where practical and safe. If you decide to use the road, be considerate and ensure your riding position is clear to others.

 

3. Group Riding Etiquette

• Communicate Effectively: Good communication is essential in group cycling. Use verbal signals to call out warnings such as “slowing,” “stopping,” or “car back.” Point out hazards like potholes, debris, or pedestrians to riders behind you.

• Maintain a Steady Pace: Avoid sudden changes in speed to prevent accidents. Maintain a smooth, consistent pace and signal if you need to slow down or move out of the group.

• Ride Two Abreast Where Appropriate: The Highway Code permits riding two abreast but advises single file when roads are narrow or when it would be safer for vehicles to overtake. Be considerate of road conditions and other road users.

• Hold Your Line: Maintain a predictable path without weaving, particularly in busy or close quarters.

4. Courtesy to Others

• Be Considerate to Drivers: Sharing the road with motorists is essential. Obey the rules, avoid obstructing traffic, and pull into single file when necessary to allow cars to pass.

• Yield to Pedestrians: On shared-use paths or when passing pedestrians, always yield. The Highway Code stresses the importance of giving pedestrians plenty of room and using a bell or calling out "on your left" when passing.

• No Littering: Respect the environment and the local community by carrying your litter until you find a bin. Littering is not only disrespectful, but it also violates local laws and the ethos of responsible cycling.

 

5. Ride Responsibly

• Know Your Limits: Avoid pushing beyond your physical limits, which can put yourself and others at risk. Listen to your body and ride at a pace you can maintain.

• Be Punctual: Arrive at the meeting point 10-15 minutes before the ride begins to ensure a timely start and briefing from the ride leader.

• Respect the Ride Leader: Follow the ride leader’s instructions and support their efforts to keep the group organized and safe. The ride leader will be familiar with the route and any safety considerations.

 

6. UK Highway Code: Key Rules for Cyclists

• Priority at Junctions: The Highway Code has been updated to give cyclists priority when going straight ahead at junctions. Drivers should not cut across cyclists at intersections. Be aware of this rule, but always be vigilant.

• Avoid Blind Spots: Never position yourself in a vehicle's blind spot, particularly around large vehicles such as lorries and buses.

• Use of Roundabouts: Cyclists may stay in the left-hand lane when approaching and riding around roundabouts. However, you must be aware of traffic and signal your intentions clearly. Drivers should give cyclists space, but always stay alert.

 

7. Emergency Protocols

• Call Out Emergencies: If someone has an accident or a mechanical failure, alert the group and pull over safely to assist if needed.

• Carry Identification: Always have ID and emergency contact information on you.

• First Aid: Carry a small first-aid kit and know basic first-aid procedures in case of minor accidents.

8. The Dutch Reach and Door Zone Awareness

• Watch for Car Doors: According to the Highway Code, passengers should use the 'Dutch Reach'—using the far hand to open car doors—to avoid hitting passing cyclists. Be vigilant for opening car doors, particularly in urban areas, and keep a safe distance from parked vehicles.

 

By adhering to these guidelines and the rules set out in the UK Highway Code, we can ensure that every ride with Slough Cycling Club is enjoyable, safe, and respectful to all road users. Let’s ride responsibly and make the roads safer for everyone!