We meet most Saturdays genearlly at 1pm and do mostly pathway riding. Our favourite meeting spots are EIT, Park Island, Clive and Perfume Point. Usually we ride for an hour or two and always stop for a coffee and chat.
We have a no-drop policy, so no one is left behind. We’ve all started at some point and we’d like you to enjoy your ride, no matter your ability. If you are new to the group welcome, we'll help you to meet other like minded women and build your fitness and knowledge of our off road pathway network.
What to bring
Make sure you have on you or your bike; a helmet, drink bottles, snack food, ICE card (in case of emergency contact details), spare tyre tube, tyre levers, bike pump and some cash or card for coffee. Check the weather in advance and dress accordingly; layers that you can take off and pop in a back pocket are great. Gloves and glasses are useful. We recommend a rear facing red flashing light attached to your seat post.
Ride Leaders
Our ‘Ride Leaders’ tovolunteer and organise rides. Please listen to their ride briefing so you know what to expect on your ride and feel free to ask questions – there are no dumb ones. You are responsible for your actions and they are there to help you learn and enjoy riding with other like-minded women. Its takes time to learn how to ride in groups and with others, below is some information to get you started on your journey. Note: If no ‘Ride Leader’ is available to lead a ride we’ll post where to meet and you can see who turns up and then decide on a suitable ride.
Be predictable Whether riding on the road or pathway with a group, always be predictable, keeping a steady straight line on the left side and indicate your movements verbally and visually. Avoid sudden braking and changes of direction and always try to maintain a steady straight line. Remember that there may be riders following closely behind. To slow down, let others know behind by calling out or signalling (waving your arm up and down at your side).We call or ring our bells to let other pathway users know we are coming through, always with a smile. Remember dogs and children will be unpredictable so slow down and pass with care.
Point out obstacles
Point out obstacles such as loose gravel, broken glass, holes, dogs, rocks or debris on the pathway calling out "hole" etc. Pointing is helpful in case someone in case you can't be heard. Make sure if you're at the back of the group to let the rest of the group know if there is another cyclists wanting to pass the group. It is just as important to pass the message on, not just letting those close to you know.
Obey the Road Rules
Sometimes we do short sections of road to link onto pathways. Especially at traffic lights - if you are on the front, and the lights turn orange, they will definitely be red by the time the back of the group goes through the intersection. You will endanger the lives of others if you run it and cause justifiable irritation by other road users. If you ride up to a Stop intersection, you must stop completely, check it’s safe and then ride off.
In front you’re leading
Remember when you are on the front, you are not only responsible for yourself but everyone in the group. When you are leading the group, try to monitor potential problems and give plenty of warning of impending stops etc. Make sure you know where you are going, ensure you read or listen to ride briefing and know your local routes.