Riding with the club
Your bike should be in excellent working order. Check your brakes, cables, and tighten all bolts and fittings. Fill up your tires and check the inflation weekly (buy a floor pump, believe me it is worth it). If in doubt take your bike to a local bike shop and have it thoroughly checked out. You'd hate to have a major mechanical problem on the ride. Also make sure that your bike is set up properly for your size. Have someone help you with adjusting handlebars, seat height, etc. before you ride. Don't try to do those adjustments in the parking lot at a ride start.
You should be in decent physical condition for riding. We do not provide any type of support service on our club rides. Speeds can be fast at times although there are usually groups of varying abilities to ride with. You should not try to exceed your conditioning if you are not ready for a longer ride. Work up to the more strenuous rides with shorter rides during the weeks ahead (weekday / evening rides are perfect for this training).
Carry plenty of water with you. Two water bottles is recommended on hot days. Drink often (take a gulp of water every ten to fifteen minutes). If you wait or forget to drink you will be in danger of dehydration which can be dangerous. We do stop to refill bottles during the rides if needed. Also bring a snack energy bar, cookies, granola, fruit or some energy food. You won't regret having it when you are hungry and tired half way home.
Know how to fix a flat tire. It is always best to have the tools (tire levers available at any bike shop) and at least one spare tube in a pocket or seat bag. If you do have a blowout, we will stop and assist you, but your should be familiar with the changing process.
Carry money, an ID of some sort, and phone numbers in case of an emergency. Many riders are now carrying cell phones too. If you should have an accident or unrepairable breakdown we need to know who you are, people to contact and how to get you back safely. We often do stop for snacks or breakfast goodies and you don't want to have to borrow money to buy something. How embarrassing! OK there is always someone with spare change.
Helmets are required for all rides. It will make you look and act more like a "real" cyclist and you'll make it safer for everyone. Wear clothing made for cycling. You don't have to look like you are in the Tour de France, but either tight-fitting Lycra or baggy cycling shorts (with inserts) will be more comfortable. Wear brightly colored jerseys or jackets. You want to be seen on the roads. We recommend investing in cycling-specific shoes. You will be able to put more power into your pedal stroke and your feet won't ache after a long ride.
Above all, have a good time. Introduce yourself if you're a new member or thinking of becoming one. You don't need to belong to CTC to ride with us a few times. Don't let the clothes, helmets, and fancy bikes intimidate you. We won't bite.
