Ride Etiquette

All group rides experience new riders that show up and ride like they have something to prove as far as their speed and aggressive riding. As recently as last Wed. on the fast Penn Cycle ride, this happened and PO'd a few people. Even Paul Inkala's ride is a group ride in which he tries his hardest to make it enjoyable for everyone including group up spots on the route and stopping for flats. So here's a helpful tip that will keep you out of hot water when riding other group rides. Leave your Superman Cape behind and check your ego. There is an old school saying that goes like this: Do As They Do, Not As You Do!

Calling Out a Flat Tire

To avoid any confusion when experiencing a flat tire, try and remember to raise your hand and come to a coasting stop. This can eliminate a possible crash by letting everyone around you know what's happening in a group setting. In the Pro peleton a right hand means a rear flat, and a left means a front tire. But for us any hand will work.

If You are Involved in an Accident

This is a subject that everyone who rides a bike does not want to think about, but is very important. If you ever get into an accident with a car when out riding it's always a good idea to call 911 and get a police report no matter how insignifigant you might think it is at the time. 30 years ago I was hit from behind by an 83 year old man that was not paying any attention to me. A friend of mine at a local well know law firm gave some great advice on what to do said, whatever you decide, never sign a release form from an insurance company until at least a year later. Hope you will never find a need for this!

Avoiding Flats

I have noticed that some riders do not take an extra 10 seconds to wipe off their tires after going through glass. This takes a little practice especially for the rear tire. It's a real "bummer" when your feeling great on the bike and having a flat as you all know too well. Also after washing your machine check the tires for embeded glass that can eventually work it's way to the tube. A sharp tool like an awl or large needle works great. I average 2-3 flats every year riding 5,000 miles.

Cold-Weather Riding

Going with more layers is always best because you can shed them as the ride progresses with the temperature and stuff it in your jersey pockets. Booties and long finger gloves are a must. Remember this simple tip: If you are a little chilly for the first 2-3 miles you should be good to go as your body temp slowly rises. Of course sunny days versus cloudy windy ones will also effect your clothing choice.

Mid-Season Maintenance

I have 24 places on my machine to check to make sure nothing is loose. You might be surprised at what has loosened up that can be a problem out on the road. Don't forget your cleat bolts on your shoes. Check the hub bearings on your wheels by spinning them between your thumb and forefinger. You shouldn't feel any resistance or roughness. Also there should be very little play in the bearings.

Navigating Roundabouts

Roundabouts are becoming more popular as you know. They can also mean a more dangerous situation for bike riders. I'm going to give the one on Hwy. 3 just a few miles south of Rosemount as an example. Since it's a single lane one you need to pay attention to vehicles behind you just before entering the circle. Look over your left shoulder and if there's a vehicle coming up on you you have 2 choices to make in a hurry. Either slow down and let them enter the circle 1st, or single with your hand that you are taking up the whole lane. The reason for this is to not get pinched between you and that car with no escape route. Remember that "two objects can't occupy the same space at the same time". The two lane roundabouts are much safer. Be careful out there.