How To Organize Group Rides
When you ride alone, it’s you and the open road. Add other riders to the mix and now you have a recipe for adventure.
A group ride is much more than you and the community. It’s an opportunity to make new friends, catch up with riders you haven’t seen in a minute, compare bike mods, and create long-lasting friendships beyond the bike. Follow these steps below for how to organize your next group ride.
Step 1: Create a ride
Start looking at dates and times that will suit your schedule. Pick a meeting location that is easily accessible for parking and unloading bikes. A place where everyone will feel comfortable gathering.
Example:
Local Park - Public location with parking stalls
Local Bike Shop
Coffee Shop
Step 2: Create your route
Choose a route that you’re familiar with. It’s recommended to pick bike lanes, paths, and trails less affected by car traffic. This will make the community of riders feel safer and relaxed. Around 15 miles roundtrip is a good sweet spot for all models. Add a stop if needed for charging.
Step 3: The Destination
The stop can include a place with food/drinks to bond with your fellow riders. Call ahead and see if they will accommodate the large group. An area for parking and charging would be ideal. If you’re just planning a ride, that’s ok. Find a scenic backdrop or landmark for the group photo.
Step 4: Announce your ride
Once you have all the details, look at posting your ride online. Design a flyer (if needed) and include all ride information; date, time, location, route, hostname, etc. There are plenty of community platforms available; Telegram, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Discord.
Example:
Date: Sat. July 3rd
Time: Meet @ 10am PT | Kickstands up @ 10:15am PT
Location: Bill Barber Park (insert address)
Route: 16+ miles (all paved)
Host: (insert name/handle)
Step 4: How to run a ride
Here are some basics on how to be a group leader
Make sure you know the route and have ridden it before hosting the ride. Remember to brief riders of the destination and directions before heading out.
Follow and obey all traffic laws. Make complete stops at intersections and traffic signals. Do not ride recklessly as you put yourself and others in danger. Keep in mind the skill levels of the riders as not everyone will be comfortable on the road.
Call out or use hand signals. It’ll notify the riders when to turn, stop, and avoid hazards. Make sure to leave no one behind. If someone gets a flat, call it out and make the group leader aware to stop.
Finally, we welcome all riders from all walks of life. Be courteous and share the stoke with the community. This will set the tone for the ride and future ones.