"As Iron Sharpens Iron, so one man sharpens another." Proverbs 27: 17
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ISI Cycling is a group of cyclists that enjoy road & mountain biking throughout northeast Georgia. Riding in an organized group provides safety, accountability, and fellowship with other cyclists. We have riders at all skill levels and new-comers are welcome. For more information, please contact us below.
Cycling etiquette
Becoming a proficient group rider takes time and experience to achieve. The key to a safe ride is to always be aware of the conditions we find ourselves in, and to react accordingly. Most important is consideration of the riders around us: what they are doing at any given time, and their level of skill. And of course we need to be continually aware of the road and traffic conditions.
For those taking part in their first group ride on the road or pace-line format, there are a few points you should be aware of to avoid falls and to gain the confidence of others around you:
- Be predictable with all your actions, and remember that what you do affects others.
- Maintain a steady straight line. Remember that there are riders following you closely from behind. To slow down, gradually move out into the wind and slot back into your position in the bunch.
- Avoid sudden or overuse of brakes. With the size of our riding groups, a nasty group spill could occur.
- The lead rider should point out and call out any road hazards ahead. These include potholes, drain grates, stray animals, opening car doors, sticks or stones, parked cars, etc.
- Do not overlap wheels. A slight direction change or gust of wind could easily cause you to touch wheels and fall.
- Pedal down hill when you are at the front of the group. If you plan to freewheel down hill, safely move to the back of the group before the descent.
- Pass other riders on the right hand side whenever possible.
- Ride smooth at the front of the group. Avoid surges and sudden movements.
- Avoid leaving gaps when following wheels. Cyclists save about 30% of their energy at high speed by following a wheel. Each time you leave a gap you are forcing yourself to ride alone to bridge it. Also, riders behind you will become annoyed and ride around you, especially if the bunch is working together to break away or catch a break in a race.
- Do not panic if you brush shoulders, hands or bars with another rider. Try to stay relaxed in your upper body to absorb any bumps. This is a part of cycling in close bunches and is quite safe provided riders do not panic, brake or change direction.
