The faster the average speed, the higher the level of group-riding skills that is required to ensure that rides remain safe. Some rides may be more appropriate than others for you to learn the skills needed to enjoy riding safely. Ride leaders will be happy to give you details regarding what is expected of you on rides. Please call the ride leader if it is your first ride at that level or if it is your first club ride.
See CYCLING TIPS for tips on riding in groups and other information. New members please check out the New Member page.
Please review the "Notes", "Items To Bring On A Ride" and "Ride Safely and Courteously" listed below the ride categories.
| Category | Pace Range | Speed on flat | Distance (miles) | Regrouping |
|---|---|---|---|---|
A | 17-20+ mph | >23 | >50 | Infrequent |
B+ | 16 -18 mph | >20 | >50 | Infrequent |
B | 15 -17 mph | 20 | >50 | As needed |
B- | 14 -16 mph | 18 | 40-50 | As needed |
C+ | 13 -15 mph | 16 | 30-40 | As needed |
C | 11-14 mph | 15 | 30 | Regular |
C- | 11-12.4 mph | 13 | 30 | Regular |
D | 9-11 mph | 12 | <30 | Frequent |
O | Orientation ride | Varies | 10-20 | Frequent |
HP/G | Hardpack/Gravel | Varies | 25-35 | As needed |
M | Mountain | Varies | 5-10 | As needed |
| V | Virtual Ride | Varies | Varies | N/A |
+ / - | The Ride Leaders may use + or - to indicate that their ride is expected to be at the upper or lower end of the range for their category. | |||
Notes
- Helmets are required.
- Phone numbers are in the 914 area code unless otherwise noted.
- Rides depart on time. Arrive at least fifteen minutes early and get ready to ride.
- It is the responsibility of all riders to be equipped with a bicycle in good repair.
- Anyone who joins a ride must be able to ride at the minimum pace for its category.
- All riders under 16 years of age must be accompanied by a responsible adult, and may join only at the discretion of the ride leader.
- All riders under 18 years of age must have a waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian.
Items to Bring on a Ride
- Tuned-up bike with inflated tires (pump tires before every ride)
- Properly fitting helmet
- Filled water bottles or hydration backpack
- Pocket food (bars, trail mix, peanut butter sandwich, etc.) that your body digests easily -- don't try new foods on a ride
- Spare tube (one minimum, two better)
- Tire irons (for changing a flat tire)
- Pump or Co2 cartridge with dispenser
- Identification, health insurance card and emergency contact information
Ride Safely and Courteously
We are all ultimately responsible for our own safety.
Bike riders are required by law to follow the same rules as cars.
Ride SMART -- Ride Accident Free
- STAY ALERT -- Pay attention to everything around you, including other riders, cars, road conditions, and your own physical status.
- MAINTAIN YOUR LINE -- Be predictable to other riders and cars. Always assume riders are behind you or about to pass.
- ACCIDENTS -- Road hazards, collisions with other riders, and loss of control downhills are often the cause of accidents.
- RESPECT -- Please respect your fellow riders, the rules of the road and the motorists we share them with. Remember that you are an ambassador for cycling.
- TALK -- Hand signals and calling out hazards and intentions are essential to group riding. Communicate first, then move.
SAFETY = COMMUNICATION + PREDICTABILITY
For more information on safe cycling, please read the STREET SMARTS brochure.