bike prep

• Brakes: Make sure your brakes work completely, as there are some fast descents. Make sure to use the back brake first, as otherwise you may topple over.
• Tire inflation: We start next to the bike shop to fill up on air as needed (~60 psi for mountain, ~100 psi for road).
• Gears: Some routes have insane uphills, so make sure you are comfortable shifting gears.
• Chain: You should get it lubricated if it isn't already. A dry chain is noisy and wears faster.
• Seat: Make sure your saddle is secure and at the right height for you, as otherwise you will be in pain while biking.
• Water: If your bike has a holder or you have a small drawstring bag, bring at least one water bottle, more if it's hot out. There are limited places to refill on the route.
• Helmet: Always wear a helmet for safety. Make sure it fits properly and is securely fastened.

riding suggestions

• Pace: Keep a steady pace, no surging. Don't overlap wheels with the rider in front.
• Spacing: If the lane is wide enough, we can ride with 2 people side by side. Otherwise, single file. On longer routes, we sometimes buddy up and wait for others.
• Rotation: Check over your shoulder before peeling off the front. Move to the back smoothly.
• Call out hazards: From the front or back, call out "Car back!", "Hole!", "Slowing!" If you are at the leading, use hand signals for turns and stops and propogate them backwards.
• Lane positioning: Ride predictably. At intersections, take the lane if needed for safety.