Bearing in mind that there will be almost 9000 other cyclists on the Ring of Kerry Cycle, it is important to try and gain some experience with group cycling, as this will definitely help you on the day.  How?  It will be more enjoyable, yet more importantly it will instill a feeling of safety when on the bike, cycling beside all these other cyclists.  As well as that it is a lot easier!!

There are many techniques and traditions associated with cycling in a group, primarily language and signals, which help ensure the safety of all riders.  The following tips should help while gaining experience: -

SIGNALS/SHOUTS – Lead riders, at the front, use hand signals to indicate stopping or turning and generally ‘shouts’ back information to the group regarding obstacles and dangers e.g. potholes, pedestrians, dangerous surfaces, animals and on coming traffic.  Riders at the back generally ‘shouts’ forward a warning on traffic approaching from the rear.  So “Car Up” means car approaching rear of group and “Car Down” means car travelling towards you – down the throat and up the rear!  It’s shouted so as to ensure all cyclists hear and heed to the warning.

SIGNALS to CARS – Its worth bearing in mind that, as a cyclist if any communication with a driver results in an accident, e.g. indicating to a driver that it is ok to overtake or pass the group, then the cyclist could be liable.  So it’s best to let drivers make their own decisions. It is important to show respect and in return gain respect of the drivers.

UP & OVER/CHAIN – As it is about 20-30% harder to be cycling on your own or in a group up front as a windbreaker, it is good etiquette to take turns!  The easiest way to do this is by the “up & over” technique.  The group rides in two a breast formation.  The rider at the front cycles in front of the rider on his/her left and then pull into the left in front of the rider, while being certain of clearing the front wheel.  This will have a ripple effect down the group, resulting in turns at the front.  Time at the front varies, depending on the wind and intensity of group spin.

You might come across the term “half wheeling”.  This is a term used when two riders are riding side by side. Normally both front wheels would be aligned on an imaginary line. Half wheeling consists of riding slightly ahead of the cyclist to your side, so by advancing your wheel halfway up the road, as opposed to riding evenly together.  Half wheeling comes from either bad riding form or being completely unaware of technique….so now you are more aware.

SITTING ON THE WHEEL – Cyclists save a huge amount of energy by following in the slipstream of the rider in front.  This is commonly known as “drafting’.  Cyclists maintain a steady straight line.  Therefore do your best by not allowing a gap to open between you and the rider in front.   If you feel you cannot keep the pace, cycle from the back of the group, so as not to interrupt the line, yet get the benefits of the group cycle.  In time you will be able to participate.

Happy & Safe Cycling & ENJOY!!