Bunch riding

If you are new to road cycling bunch riding is an excellent way to get started, learn about bunch riding tips and meet other cyclists. Generally, the route chosen will take account of the weather and road conditions. Otherwise, ask at the local bike shop, as they will usually know of regular rides or try contacting one of the cycling clubs and groups.

When the fun ride season gets underway, we often see a rise in bunch riding cycling accidents. Common causes include sudden braking, wheels touching and cyclists not being seen by drivers. Here are some tips to make it through to your big event injury-free.

• If you’ve had a break from riding over winter, do a couple of rides by yourself or with just one mate before joining a bunch
• Communication is critical – when riding with others, signal hazards such as potholes and approaching cars.   
• Limit your bunch size to a maximum of 12 riders. Big bunches are more likely to have pile-ups and impede traffic
• Never let your front wheel overlap another rider’s rear wheel - stay in one or two lines and rotate smoothly. Use your brakes gently to avoid a pile up.
• Stop at red lights – you will gain the respect of motorists. When at the front of a bunch, don't lead the group through an orange light.  
• Be predictable and always signal your intentions to other riders as well as vehicles.
• Change from riding two-abreast to single file if you are holding up, or passing other vehicles (including parked cars)
• Save race-pace and your best form for the day of the event (when there will be a safety plan in action)
• Check your bike regularly - about 5% of cycling accidents are due to mechanical faults, like tyre blowouts, brake failure and cracked parts. Make sure your pump and water bottle are securely attached to the bike. For training, consider using wider tyres (e.g. 28cc on a road racing bike) which are much more stable on rough sections of road, less likely to puncture, and more durable.
• Generate goodwill by showing appreciation for courteous driving

 Good luck with your big event!

Here is a useful link covering the finer points of bunch riding:

http://www.onslowtarbabies.org.nz/ethos.html#Technique

Classic New Zealand Road Rides