Here are some "rules" that we should uphold for this ride:
* However fast you might be going as you approach Birdfoot, do not cut into the wrong lane, and do not fan across the street in an attempt to maintain your pace. We will regroup at the top.
* The left turn on Colt's Neck is proving dangerous: cars coming from Lawyers may not be visible until it's too late.
* On Viking, do not run the stop sign at Pinecrest, do not cut the corner at John Milton, and do not fan across John Milton. There is consistently oncoming traffic that is obscured by parked cars.
Here are general rules for club rides:
0) The law requires us to ride two abreast, no more.
1) Join RBC, complete the waiver, and sign up for the ride. I can count on one hand the number of times that someone has flouted these rules, but they are the rules. Seriously.
2) Ride with the group, and for the group. Call out potholes or debris, especially on Lawyer’s Rd. Do not cross the center line. Do not cut the corner while making the left turn up Birdfoot Rd. Do not race the group.
3) I quote the estimable Gideon Schmidt: “This is the most important rule. When we make turns onto roads we make sure it is safe for anyone behind us. You are responsible for all the riders behind you, even if there is a gap.” It’s a misconception among cyclists that if one can beat a car through an intersection, one is entitled or even required to do so.
4) Be careful in neighborhoods, even at the cost of speed, and especially on the final John Milton sprint.
5) Do not cross over yellow lines, or cross into oncoming traffic. Do not swarm/pass cars at stop lights, stop signs, etc. Do not do anything to confuse a driver.
6) No TT/tri bikes, clip-on aero bars, or “puppy paws” position. No e-bikes or earbuds. Move away from other people before blowing snot rockets.
