Cycling Etiquette and Guidelines for CIBA Rides

1. Helmets are encouraged and highly recommended.

2. Obey all traffic laws as they pertain to cyclists. Indiana law exerpt

3. Be courteous to motorists and to each other at all times. Don't swarm around cars at intersections. When passing always let other riders know you are there by calling out "on your right" or "on your left."

4. Remember that your actions on a ride are like a ripple in a pond and affect everyone around you. Never do anything that could cause harm to yourself or others. Always be predictable when you ride and never do anything that might surprise those around you.

5. Experienced riders should always set a good riding example. They should welcome new riders, mentor them, and offer polite and constructive criticism when necessary.

6. Riders who are new to the ride should "sit in, watch and learn. Ride captains may be designated by the ride leaders as more experienced riders familiar with the ride and ride etiquette. If you have a skill weakness or cycling etiquette question, ask the ride leaders or road captains for advice. Be prepared to accept constructive criticism. It is not intended personally. Remember that one person's mistake affects the safety and well being of everyone on the ride.

7. If you have a time trial bike or aero bars on your bike, do not use the aero bars while riding in the group. Ride at the back of the group if you want to ride in the aero position.

8. Pay attention to how comfortable your fellow riders are in the group and give less experienced riders more room.

9. If you have been dropped or you are struggling to stay with the group, don't use traffic signals or stop signs to go to the front of the group. Stay off the front if you haven't earned it.

10. If you are at your physical limit and are being dropped, know how to exit the pack and drop back safely.

11. Two abreast is the ride formation with the right side being the "bail out" lane where you make your way to the back of the pack.

12. Rider communication is very important on all group rides. Call out obstacles and holes ("hole right"), car locations ("car up or car back"). Use hand signals and call out turns. Ipods, earphones or any other device that distracts a rider from paying complete attention to the ride and that tends to prevent communication with other riders is strongly discouraged.

13. If you see that a traffic signal is going to turn red, do not accelerate to get through because the group following may be tempted to go through on red and into the path of oncoming cars. Riders in the middle of the pack must use good judgment and plan for a controlled stop rather than a panic stop when they see a traffic signal changing.

14. These are RIDES and not races. Racing is inherently risky and dangerous and is conducted under controlled circumstances. Racers assume those risks when they pay their fee and pin on their number. We do not take risks on these rides and dangerous or unsafe riding will not be tolerated.

15. For the Hinkle and Broad Ripple Training Rides the ride leaders have said A helmet is required. No exceptions and that Ipods, earphones, and other devices hampering communication will not be permitted.