Roadbike Safety


Our beginner road bikers are often VERY new at road biking - some do not yet know how to change gears correctly, how to brake safely, or how to ride hills and corners. And that's well before any fitness is gained! So please think about your riding buddies before bailing off down the road...

Speed - Check what their average cycling speed is. If they have no clue, they are most likely a complete Novice. Once they become aware of distances and times, very Beginners will do around 16-18km/hr, and that is sufficient fitness for a 1/4 ironman distance (45km). Improvers will do around 20-22km/hr and can manage a 1/2 ironman distance (90km). If you are thinking about Ironman distance (180km), you really need to be comfortably training at around 24-26km/hr+.

Bunch Riding - Is where a group of similar-pace bikers ride close to each other. This is beneficial for confidence, training, and to provide some drafting benefit for the weaker riders. There are some rules with bunch riding:

  • Wear tight, but bright clothing so you can always be seen. Red flashing lights are also recommended.
  • You can't ride a TT bike, or use your aerobars in a bunch - you need to have your hands on the brakes!
  • Tuck in behind the person in front of you, within 2 wheel spaces, so you can benefit from their wind resistance
  • Check the person directly behind you is still there, if not, you need to slow down until they catch up again
  • When braking, always use both brakes gently and equally, to prevent skidding and losing control
  • Keep a couple fingers loosely on brakes, so you can slow if the person in front brakes, but keep pedalling
  • Keep your speed consistent, so the bunch does not run into each other - no sudden braking
  • Take turns at the front if you are a fitter rider, to help shield those behind from the wind
  • Stay behind the white line on all busy roads, main roads, corners, and narrow roads
  • You can ride 2-abreast where there is ample vision and room for cars to pass on quieter roads
  • Call out 'car back!' or 'car front!' when a car is coming, and all move aside nicely
  • Always obey all road rules like a vehicle - we don't need any more reasons to piss off car drivers!
  • Always signal direction with your hands when coming to intersections
  • When there are obstacles/rubbish/potholes on the road, wave your hand at it, to warn those behind you

Buddy - If you are an existing rider, pick a newbie to Buddy up with and assist. Ride close behind them and help them:

  • Hand position on hoods, fingers loosely on brakes
  • What gears to change and when, how to use both chain rings
  • How how to keep the cadence up to around 70-80 for beginners, and 85-90 for better riders
  • Putting weight on straightened outside leg going around corners, knee into corner
  • Ducking down and riding in aero position going down hills or along straights

Bike Basics - These are just common sense and good bike ethics:

  • One person should always stop and help a rider who has a flattie
  • Your essential bike Kit should contain; bag, multi-tool, 3 x tyre levers, 2 x tubes, pump
  • Optional items can include a CO2 cannister and adjuster valve
  • You should also have your drink, some nibbles, and your cellphone
  • For Half/full Ironman, you will also need to think about extra hydration systems & panniers