a. Left turn: horizontal left arm pointing left. When safe, signal your intention and aggressively move into the left or turn lane.
b. Right turn: up-lifted left arm, or right arm horizontal pointing right.
c. Stopping: Extend either arm downward with palm facing rear.
d. Slowing: Extend either arm downward with palm facing down.

12. When approaching an intersection as a group, Florida law allows 10 cyclists to pass through the intersection as one group after the group has come to a complete stop. If the Ride Leader or some part of the group stops for approaching traffic, following riders should also stop and should not pass the stopped cyclists, nor proceed until the front rider proceeds.

13. When approaching a roundabout, vehicles (or cyclists) in the roundabout have the right of way. Cyclists approaching the roundabout must yield to vehicles or cyclists already in the roundabout.

14. To improve overall group safety, even If you are not leading or sweeping, it is recommended to keep your front light on in flashing mode. The Ride Leader may request you to turn them off.

Enforcement of Compulsory Riding Rules

“The SLBC Board of Directors may suspend or expel a member for repeated violations of the Safe Riding Rules, The Villages® VCDD Recreation Department’s rules of Conduct or other just cause.” Article IV of the SLBC bylaws.

How to Bike in Traffic

Part 1: Riding in The Villages and surrounding areas

1. Four lane roads: In the Villages four lane roads are too narrow to safely or legally contain a bicycle and a motor vehicle traveling side by side. To discourage drivers from attempting to share the lane, the cyclist usually rides on the right half of the right lane to facilitate visibility for overtaking motorists, but should ride far enough left to discourage motorists from trying to squeeze past within the lane. Often this is described as the right tire track.

2. Bypass Lanes: The Bypass lanes in the Villages are too narrow for a vehicle and a cyclist to share at the same time. Motorists will however, try to squeeze through. To discourage motorists from attempting to share the lane, The Ride Sweep will move into the center of the lane. After the Ride Sweep blocks the lane, the rest of the ride group should ride in the middle of the lane until the bypass merges with the travel lane.

3. Multi-modal paths: In the Villages divided sections of multi-modal paths are too narrow to safely contain a bicycle and a golf car traveling side by side. To discourage golf car drivers from attempting to share the lane, cyclists should ride in the middle of the lane.

4. Multi-modal path tunnels: Cyclists are encouraged to avoid multi-modal path tunnels whenever reasonable. However, tunnels may be a safer option for solo riders.

5. Country roads: All two-lane roads must be shared with motor vehicles. Cyclists should ride single file as far to the right as practicable (this does not mean you must ride as far to the right as possible).

6. Lights: Cyclists are strongly encouraged to display a flashing bright red rear light and a flashing front light.

7. Gate Protocol: When approaching an entrance gate ride to the right side-gate (resident gate) unless the attendant tells you differently. Slow and prepare to stop unless the attendant opens the gate for you to pass.;

Part 2: Cyclists Rights and Road Position

Here in The Villages, unlike most places, bikes must mix with motorized vehicles. Even our recreation trails are commonly called “Golf cart paths”. The reality is that traffic of all kinds is increasing as this wonderland for retired folks continuously expands in territory and population. At any time of year our streets and trails are filled with seasonal residents and renters. The trick is knowing how to ride in a way that allows a cyclist to co-exist with traffic on the roadways and along the vast system of recreation trails. No cyclist is a match for a 3,000 pound vehicle on the road or a 1,000 pound golf cart on a recreation trail. Below are a few tips for increasing your safety when cycling.

Assert your Lawful rights. But do so with caution. Bicycles are defined by Florida law Chapter 316.003 as vehicles that have full use of the roadway. As a cyclist, you have all of the same rights and responsibilities as a motorized road user. This means you STOP and YIELD for regulatory signs and lights. Always SIGNAL when turning or changing lanes. Motorists are legally required to give not less than 3 feet when passing you regardless of which lane you are in.

Claim your Road Position. First, if there is a bike lane you must use it (a shoulder or edge of road line is not a bike lane). When there is no bike lane, the law states that a cyclist must ride as far to the right on the roadway as practicable. “Practicable” means as far right as is safe, not as far right as is possible. There’s a difference. Further, you’re allowed to move to the left of the lane to avoid pedestrians, slower moving vehicles, road hazards, and the debris that inevitably find its way onto the right shoulder.

If the road doesn’t have a shoulder, bike lane, or multi-modal lane, ride in the right side of the traffic lane. Be cautious here, you need to give yourself room to maneuver. If you’re riding at the road’s edge, drivers may assume you are yielding to them and think they have room to pass without moving into the other lane. Most lanes in our area measure significantly less than the FDOT standard of 14 feet wide (most are about 11 feet wide). These lanes do not have enough room for a bicycle to operate, the 3 feet required passing space and an automobile.

On roads with a wide shoulder. If you choose to ride on a wide shoulder, ride about 2 feet to the right of the white line. Again, this is assuming the shoulder isn’t littered with debris.

Knowing the rules of the road and following them make driving our roadways predictable and safer for everyone.

Part 3: Doing Your Part

Safely coexisting with all users of our roadways and multi-modal trails is based upon drivers and pedestrians knowing and following the law. Part 1 covered cyclist rights and road position in the traffic lanes and on the shoulders and bike lanes. There are however other things we cyclists can do to keep ourselves safe, like being aware of our surroundings:

Take nothing for granted at intersections. When you approach an intersection with the intention of proceeding straight ahead, and you have the right of way, look carefully to the left, to the right and back to the left. You have no guarantee that another road user will obey a STOP sign, a YIELD sign or a traffic signal. Watch for pedestrians, golf carts and other cyclists too.

Beware of motorists making a right turn. Recently, many of the crashes in our area involving a motor vehicle and a bicycle have been in roundabouts. Some impatient motorists will enter the roundabout (attempting to pass a group of cyclists) in the inside (left) lane and want to take the first (right) exit. Cyclists call this a “Right Hook”. The vehicle changing lanes within the roundabout is at fault if such a crash occurs. On multi-lane roads and particularly in roundabouts, it is important to claim your lane so that a faster moving vehicle overtaking you doesn’t make a right turn across your path. When you are riding as close to the right as possible, you appear to be giving up your right to the road. Worse yet, that road position makes you less visible to faster moving traffic.

Know and use hand signals when cycling. When turning, follow the same laws that govern motor vehicles. Position yourself in the correct lane well in advance of the turn, signal your intention (100 feet before the turn) and make a predictable turn while controlling your lane. Like any other driver, be on the lookout for pedestrians. Described below are the hand signals identified in Florida State law.

Signal that you’re slowing or stopping by holding your left hand down with palm facing backward. This simple gesture often works to hold traffic back in potentially unsafe situations as well.

Signal a left turn with left arm straight out to the side.

Signal a right turn by holding the left arm out with your elbow bent up at 90 degrees, or (an alternate right turn) with the right arm straight out to the side.

Beware of car doors and parked golf cars. When driving your bike in and around the town squares, ride just a bit farther to the left when passing parked cars. Drivers tend to open their doors after checking for traffic, they may not be looking for cyclists. If you hit a door, your bike will stop immediately, you will not! If you see someone in the driver’s seat, expect the worst, slow and give yourself some distance. Using the STOP hand signal will warn other drivers that something is up. Keep a close watch for pedestrians positioned between parked golf cars. Most golf cars are fairly tall and may be enclosed making pedestrians impossible to see. Pedestrians usually look for traffic, not bikes, and might step into your path.

When you see a driver stopped at a cross street, attempt eye contact. A friendly wave (using ALL of your fingers) can be an attention grabber as well.

Earn respect, obey the law and ride big. Motorists are much more likely to treat cyclists with respect if they earn it with patience, courtesy and lawful cycling. On the other hand, when you ride erratically (roll through stop signs and traffic lights), drivers can’t be blamed for becoming frustrated. It is also important to ride big (be highly visible when cycling on the roadways). Always wear a vividly painted, certified helmet and bright clothing. The circular motion of brightly colored shoes or socks are helpful in catching the eyes of motorists. Finally, use front and rear lights for both day and night rides. Combined, these simple tips will provide contrast to your surroundings.

Harassment. Every experienced cyclist has stories about close passes and bad behavior of all kinds. If you are harassed or threatened by a motorist, do whatever it takes to safely survive the situation. The best reaction is to show no reaction. Continue your ride. Any reaction by you may exacerbate an already tense situation. However, if harassment is serious or repeated, report the vehicle description and license number to police (911). One suggestion is to have a high-definition movie camera facing forward and rearward on your bike.

The formula for roadway safety:

Knowledge + Predictability + Courtesy = Safer Sharing of our Roadways

SLBC E-Bike Policy

The Sumter Landing Bicycle Club welcomes those with electric bikes (E-bikes) to join our regularly scheduled group rides. However, we do have a few stipulations. There are basically two types of E-bikes: pedal assist and throttle controlled, along with three classifications.

Class 1 electric bicycle shall mean an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed 20 miles per hour.

Class 2 electric bicycle shall mean an electric bicycle equipped with a motor and throttle that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour. Operation of any E-bike in a “Throttle Only” mode is not permitted on a club ride.

Class 3 electric bicycle shall mean an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed 28 miles per hour.

All cyclists should choose to ride in groups of similar and familiar experience and expertise. Please remember, Ride Leaders have the discretion to ask you to leave if you are not riding within the advertised pace.

Cycling Etiquette and Ethics

All cyclists are expected to adhere to standards which respect other cyclists, motorists, golf cart operators, runners, and pedestrians in the communities where we ride. Examples of cyclist etiquette are:

• Follow the Ride Leader’s instructions.
  
• Ride within the advertised pace.
  
• Stay with the group. A rider may leave the group at any time before the end of the ride but they need to inform the sweep of their plan.
  
• If a rider chooses to leave the ride, they must leave from the back of the group and drop back 100-200 yards before leaving. On the boulevards, the separation is required if the ride is going left and the dropping rider is going right. We do not want cyclists in both lanes at the same time (the motorists get irritated and do not know what lane to use).
  
• For insurance purposes, a cyclist who willfully leaves the ride before the ride end is no longer on the ride and therefore not insured.
  
• Use hand and voice signals to alert other cyclists of hazards or directions. This includes passing commands from the front or the rear.
  
• Pass only on the left and call out “On your left” when passing.
  
• When being passed, ride single file and get into the proper road position.
  
• Use your mirror to watch for cyclists behind you, particularly the sweep.
  
• Do not discharge bodily fluids when a cyclist is behind. Move behind the sweep if you must discharge.
  
• Avoid confrontation with motorists, other cyclists, or pedestrians.
  
• Chose a ride pace which is suitable for your fitness level.
  
• Respect the Ride Leader’s or Ride Starter’s advice on which ride to join.
  
• Do not engage in physical abuse or malicious actions toward any person while on a club ride or at any club event.
  
• Do not engage in the use of foul language, verbal abuse, or obscene gestures while on a club ride or at any club event.
  
• Do not engage in any unlawful activity while on a club ride or attending a club event.
  
• Do not engage in the use, sale, possession, or distribution of illegal substances while on a club ride or at any club event.
  
• Do not engage in any behavior that may be defined as sexual harassment under EEOC guidelines while on a club ride or at any club event.
  
• Do not engage in any conduct which is hostile, threatening, abusive, harassing or discriminatory toward others while on a club ride or at a club event.

Return to Table of Contents

Section 2 Information for Riders

Preparing for Your First Club Ride

The primary goal of the Sumter Landing Bicycle Club (SLBC) is to provide cycling opportunities to our club members. We accomplish this through regularly scheduled group rides out of select locations within The Villages as well as special destination rides to a wide variety of interesting/exciting places. Cycling is an inherently risky undertaking, but we have put in place a set of requirements and expectations that are designed to reduce the risk and enhance the enjoyment of group riding. Below you will find important information about what is needed and expected of club members (and guest riders!) when cycling with the SLBC.

What to bring

• Your bicycle needs to be in good working order. Tires should be properly inflated.
  
• Helmets are required.
  
• Mirrors are highly recommended for your first ride and required for subsequent rides.
  
• Guest riders will need to sign two liability waivers at the ride start. You can preview the SLBC and The Villages® liability waivers on the club website before signing. Guest riders may ride one time without charge. However, if you wish to ride again, insurance regulations require that you join the club. If you have already joined the club prior to your first ride, you do not need to sign the waiver at the ride start - you signed the waivers electronically during the club application process.
  
• Water bottle(s) or a Camelbak for hydration. Two bottles are recommended during the summer months (June-August).
  
• A sports bar or similar for the ride break.
  
• A spare tube to fit your bicycle (just in case of a puncture).
  
• An air pump or CO2 inflator.
  

• Before your first group ride, please review the Compulsory Club Safety Rules and the section on Riding in Traffic in this Handbook.
  
• For your first group ride, arrive at least 15 minutes early and ask a club member to point out the Ride Starter.
  
• See the Ride Starter to sign the waivers if you have not yet joined the club.
  
• The Ride Starter or a designated club member will ask a few questions about your experience and capabilities and make a recommendation on which group to join for your first ride. We recommend that you join a ride group that is one level slower than what you usually ride. This is very important if you have not been on the bike for several weeks if you are coming from a cold weather climate. The Ride starter will introduce you to the Ride Leader of the group which best fits your experience, fitness, and capabilities which will result in a favorable first ride experience. If you are concerned about the ride distance or ride duration, ask the Ride Leader.
  
• The Ride Leader will answer questions and offer any needed clarification on our club safe riding practices.
  
• All rides have a mid-ride break for a bathroom stop and a quick snack. Some of these stops are at public parks, so it is recommended that you bring your snack with you.
  
• C-social and C pace rides will have periodic water stops. If you are riding a B pace or A pace ride, it is expected that you can “pull a bottle” while you are pedaling. If you are not able to do this, please let the Ride Leader know before you depart the ride start.
  
• While enjoying the ride, follow the rules for your safety and the safety of others in the group. Observe and learn from the experienced members of your ride group.
  
• Take advantage of any social gatherings after the ride. It’s as much about the friends we make as the exercise.
  

• Wear a helmet at all times when on the bike (includes riding in the parking lot).
  
• Have suitable hydration for the ride.
  
• Have and use a rear facing mirror.
  
• Have a flashing rear tail light. 100 lumens minimum suggested.
  
• Have a flashing front light. 200 lumens minimum suggested.
  
• Pass hand and voice signals back and forward using outdoor (loud) voices.
  
• Ride single file.
  
• Ride in the proper section of the road or multi-modal lane.
  
• Never pass another rider on the right, only on the left.
  
• Ride behind the Ride Leader, single file, in a straight line.
  
• Make sure your bike is in good mechanical condition: shifting, brakes and tires.
  
• When passing a slower ride group, leave 3 feet clearance and call out “on your left.”
  
• When being passed by a faster group, always “single up” to give the faster group room to safely pass. Don’t hog the lane.
  
• Never pull up next to a car at a stop light, always behind the last vehicle in line.
  
• When climbing, stay to the right and pass only 2 riders wide.
  
• Do not use “CLEAR” command.
  
• If you have to leave the ride FOR ANY REASON, you must inform the Ride Sweep and leave from the rear of the ride.
  
• No use of aerobars on a club ride.
  
• No audio equipment (except hearing aids) is permitted.
  
• Follow the etiquette and ethics guidelines.

Crossing Major Highways

There are four major highways surrounding the Villages that cyclists may need to cross from time to time. They are: US441, US27, US301, and FL44. These are four or six lane highways. It is recommended to cross these where there is a traffic control device (a traffic light), however, this is not always possible.

When there is no traffic control device and you have to cross these highways, it is important to cross only where there is a median that separates opposing travel lanes. When crossing these highways, the following procedure is recommended.

1. Approach the highway with caution.

2. When it is safe to do so, cross one side of the highway first and stop in the median. Be careful because the median usually has a left turn lane coming from the opposite traffic direction. Not all riders have to cross into the median at the same time.

3. Stop in the median in the area which is closest to the right. Do not spread across the full opening in the median. This allows left turning traffic from the opposite direction (traffic coming from your right) to go around you and execute their left turn.

4. When it is safe to do so, cross the second side of the highway.

5. The ride group shall wait until all riders are across and the sweep calls “All Here” before proceeding on the route.

Several of the club rides travel eastbound to Leesburg on FL44. The rides exit left from FL44 at Whitney Road. Taking the lane on FL 44 is not recommended due to the speed of the vehicular traffic. Instead, the ride should take a RIGHT on Whitney Road, travel down a hundred yards or so, make a U-turn and then proceed to cross FL44 as identified above.

When Problems Arise

Problems are a fact of life. They are everywhere and a bicycle ride is no exception. The problems fall into two categories, Ride Problems and People Problems.

Ride Problems which require a response

This type of problem is minor in nature and occurs frequently. The ride does not stop but action is required.

Ride Split

A ride split occurs when a significant space opens up between two riders within a ride group. There are several reasons that cause this split. They are:

• The group has to yield at a roundabout but not every rider gets through at once.
  
• There is a traffic light and some riders do not make the light before it changes.
  
• Some cyclists struggle on hills.
  
• Some cyclists struggle in the wind.

Return to Table of Contents

Section 3 Information for Ride Leaders

Overview - Why Lead Rides?

The simple answer is someone has to do it. However, leading rides can be a positive experience and also fun for all involved. All Ride Leaders are expected to set a good example by riding safely and remembering that their behavior can make the ride a pleasant or unpleasant experience for members and guest riders. Ride experience, understanding Ride Leader responsibilities, getting advice and guidance from experienced Ride Leaders, and following the guidelines in this Handbook, will help Ride Leaders to effectively fulfill their duties.

Many bicycle clubs do not have Ride Leaders. Everyone gathers for a group ride. There is usually a mass start and everyone takes off. Some riders group up along the route while others complete the route by riding alone. If this is how you like to ride, then The Sumter Landing Bicycle Club may not be a good fit for you.

The Sumter Landing Bicycle Club has adopted the ride protocol of a Ride Leader and a Ride Sweep for three basic reasons.

1. There is safety in numbers. Within a community of over 100,000 seniors, there are always a few distracted drivers. A larger group is easily recognizable, and the senior motorists can take the necessary precautions to keep us from harm.

2. The ride protocol is designed to teach you how to safely cycle within The Villages and the surrounding countryside. Every location has unique behavior between motorists and cyclists. The Villages is no different. The cycling protocol here has been developed and refined to deal with the many challenges that face cyclists within a senior community.

3. Riders learn from the leaders and sweeps. Many of our members are, or were, newbies who started to bicycle for fitness after they retired. All the techniques that the experienced rider knows are unknowns to the novice riders. A leader or sweep has the ability to share their knowledge of cycling.

Effective February 15, 2022: Recertification or Certification as a Ride Leader

To are two paths to Certification.

1. If you are regularly leading rides, attend a Leader-Sweep Training Session to become recertified.

2. If you are not regularly leading rides, attend a Leader-Sweep Training Session and when you are ready, request the Ride Director, Safety Director, or League Cycling Instructors, to accompany you on a ride you lead and evaluate your performance. With a satisfactory sign off, your name will be placed on the list of certified Ride Leaders.

Recertification as a Ride Leader

To maintain your certification as a Ride Leader, you will need to complete the Leader-Sweep Training every three years.

Ride Leader Responsibilities

Before the Ride

The Ride Leader selects the route and pace which is appropriate for the ride group. The leader selects the break point and water stop points if the ride group is not capable of “pulling a bottle” while cycling. Water stop points should be about every 5-8 miles depending on weather conditions and intensity of the ride.

The Ride Leader may develop his/her own ride route or may select one from the club Ride with GPS (RWGPS) Library. Many Ride Leaders communicate the ride route to their ride group the day before the ride.

Ride Leaders who prefer to use RWGPS routes are encouraged to download them from the club library, electronically share them with the riders and ask riders to install them on a GPS capable cyclo-computer or a smart phone. The concept of having multiple riders with the ride route available greatly simplifies the Ride Leader’s task and reduces stress.

Developing or Selecting the Ride Route

When developing the route or selecting one from the RWGPS Library, Ride Leaders must consider several factors. Factors to consider are: cycling maturity (skill level) of the expected riders, ride distance, ride speed, weather conditions, and traffic conditions on the expected route.

When developing the route, the Ride Leader should seek to minimize left turns and select roads that are suitable for the ride group experience. Certain roads such as FL44, US301, CR42 may not be suitable for all ride groups. Exposure time on busy roads with no shoulder such as CR42 and CR475 should be minimized.

Traffic volume on many roads and intersections varies throughout the year. An intersection on a route that was developed during the summer months may become particularly difficult to negotiate during the high season.

Roundabouts within the Villages present many challenges to motorists and cyclists. In particular, entering a roundabout to execute a left turn, where there is a parallel Bypass Lane is not recommended. Currently, there are 8 of these in the Villages.

• Rainey Trail Eastbound to Buena Vista Northbound
  
• Old Mill Run Westbound to Buena Vista Southbound
  
• Stillwater Trail Westbound to Buena Vista Southbound
  
• Hillsborough Trail Westbound to Buena Vista Southbound
  
• Hendry Drive Southbound to Buena Vista Northbound
  
• Lake Sumter Landing Eastbound to Morse Northbound
  
• Morse Blvd Northbound to Warm Springs Ave Southbound
  
• Dray Drive Southbound to Morse Blvd Southbound
  

• Have you cycled in a group?
  
• Have you cycled on the road?
  
• Would you be comfortable cycling on the boulevards?
  
• Are you comfortable riding on major roadways with a shoulder?
  
• What distance do you normally ride and when was the last time you rode outdoors?
  
• What speed do you normally ride?
  
• This ride has hills, are you okay with that?
  
• Can you drink while you are pedaling? (Important/expected for A and B rides)
  
• Please understand that you may be dropped on this ride (A rides only)

The Ride Leader communicates the signal for Taking the Lane with the sweep. This signal can be pointing to the ground on the side where the lane change is to occur or pointing to the sky. It should NOT BE pointing right or left in the manner of a right or left turn.

The Ride leader counts the number of total riders who will be on the route. Ride groups are limited to 10 riders total including the Leader and Sweep. If there are more than 10 riders, additional groups need to be formed.

Each ride group shall have a Certified Leader and Certified Sweep. The primary Ride Leader is responsible for selecting the Leaders and Sweeps. An effective technique to secure Leaders and Sweeps is to select someone whom the Leader knows is another certified leader or certified sweep and just ask them to serve. This is much more effective than asking for volunteers. Leaders or Sweeps that have downloaded the RWGPS route are preferred.

On the Ride

The Ride Leader(s) uses hand and voice signals for hazards, turns, slowing, and stopping.

The Ride Leader(s) avoid jackrabbit starts and acknowledges the “All Here” or “All Through” command from the Sweep with a raised hand before ramping up the ride pace.

The Ride Leader(s) slow the ride pace when the command “Split!” is passed up from the Sweep. The Ride Leader does not resume the ride pace until “All Here” is passed up from the sweep.

The Ride Leader(s) maintain the advertised ride pace.

The Ride Leader(s) maintain a 40-50 yard separation between ride groups or sub groups.

The Ride Leader keeps Hijackers in control.

Taking the Left Lane and Merging

To successfully execute this maneuver, the Ride Leader must plan ahead. The steps in this process are:

1. Know where the lane change must occur. A quarter mile is a good rule of thumb, but conditions vary greatly due to traffic volume. A lane change taken too early irritates the motorists. One taken too late puts riders at increased risk. Ride pace also determines when you change lanes.

2. Look in your mirror to survey how much traffic is coming up on your left from the rear and look for an opening. If the first opening is far back, slow the ride pace to get the traffic to flow by faster. You do not want to run out of runway. If there is a large opening before a long line of traffic, you may want to execute the lane change early to secure your position on the road. With a large opening, the line of cars behind will have plenty of time to move into the right lane that you will vacate.

3. Signal the sweep that you want to “Take the Lane.”

4. Watch in your mirror for the sweep to move into the left lane and block the traffic.

5. When the sweep announces, “Take the Lane!” (and you hear it), move into the left lane. You must hear the sweep first. Riders behind you should not call “Take the Lane!” until it is called by the sweep.

Transitioning from a left turn at a roundabout

The Ride Leader is responsible for positioning the ride group into the left lane when entering the roundabout for a left turn. When exiting the roundabout, the Ride Sweep is responsible for moving the group into the right travel lane.  Riders should follow the Ride Leader through the roundabout and MUST NOT make the merge into the right travel until they hear the sweep call "Take the Lane." Riders should then do three things as follows: 1. Pass up the command in a loud voice. 2. Check their mirror to make sure it issafe to move. 3. Take the lane.

Cycling in the Bypass Lane

When entering the Bypass Lane, the Ride Sweep will often move to the left to signal the motorists behind that we do not want them to try to share the lane with the cyclists as there is not enough space to accommodate everyone at the same time. If the Sweep is able to do this, he will call out “Take the Lane” and the Ride Leader can move a little to the left as well.

Sometimes, the sweep is not able to move left early enough. The Ride Leader should be looking in the mirror for approaching vehicles and the sweep. If it is safe to do so, the Ride Leader should move to the left when entering the Bypass Lane to also signal to the motorists that we do not want them sharing the Bypass Lane.

Passing Another Cycling Group

When approaching another slower ride group, the Ride Leader of the passing ride group shall call out “On Your Left” as the ride group approaches the Ride Sweep of the slower ride group. The Ride Leader of the passing ride group should also call out the number of riders in the group and how many groups are passing if there is more than one group. When the Ride Leader of the passing ride group comes up to the Ride Leader of the slower ride group, the passing Ride Leader should again call out the number of riders in the group and how many groups are passing if there is one than one group.

No Passing Areas

Passing another ride group should not be attempted while in a roundabout or while in a bypass lane.

At the End of the Ride

In general, the ride should end at the ride start. Occasionally, the ride will end at a coffee shop or similar. If the ride is NOT going to end at the ride start, this needs to be announced before the ride departs.

The Ride Leader should return to the ride start location. If this is not possible, the Ride Leader should appoint a substitute to return to the ride start. This is especially important when there are guest riders in the ride group who may not know their way around.

Problems on the Ride

Ride Problems That Slow the Ride Progress

Typical problems which slow progress are Splits and Gaps. A split is an opening within the ride group. A Gap is an unusual opening between ride groups.

A split usually occurs due to a stop of some of the riders at a light or at a roundabout. A split can also be the result of a cyclist struggling due to hills, wind, or the ride pace is too fast. Anyone in the ride group can announce “Split!” The remedial action for a split is to simply slow the ride down until the opening is closed and the sweep announces, “All Here!”

A Gap occurs when a whole group is detained by a stop at a light or a roundabout or a mechanical problem. The Sweep is responsible for announcing “Gap”. On rides where the follow-on groups do not know the ride route, the lead group must slow down. On rides where groups are using RWGPS, the usual protocol is for all groups to operate independently and no action is taken for “Gaps!”

Emergency Vehicles Protocol

A full stop of the ride group is not recommended as an abrupt stop by some riders and not others may result in a crash and riders falling into the roadway. On the boulevards, when a ride group is being overtaken by an emergency vehicle, the group should move to the far right of the travel lane, slow down to about 10 mph, and allow the emergency vehicle(s) to pass. If a motor vehicle stops in front of the ride group, the ride group must stop and not proceed until the motor vehicle has moved.

Ride problems which cause the ride to stop

The Ride Leader shall stop the ride when a “Mechanical!” or “Medical!” command is heard.

When the ride is stopped, the Ride Leader shall request everyone in the ride group to get off the road surface and onto the grass shoulder. This applies to dedicated golf cart lanes also. When everyone is off the road, then the mechanical or medical problem can be addressed, and the appropriate action taken.

If the ride must stop and the ride is delayed while roadside repairs are made, riders in the subgroup where the stoppage occurs must stop until the repair occurs. The primary Ride Leader has the decision on whether to require follow on ride groups to stop or not. On rides where groups are using RWGPS, the usual protocol is for all groups to operate independently and only the group with the mechanical problem stops.

Crash Protocol

A crash is not an accident. It did not happen by accident. Unless it was an act of God (like a tree limb falling on you), it happened because someone (pet owner, motorist, cyclist, or pedestrian) was not paying attention or was not following the rules. Crashes happen more often than we like, but they do happen.

In the event of a crash, the Ride Leader’s responsibility is to:

• Don’t put yourself in danger.
  
• Take precautions so that the remaining cyclists on the ride are safe.
  
• Call 911 if warranted. Have another rider on the phone with the exact location or geographic coordinates of the crash. Hint: ask Siri “What is my location?” It is recommended to practice asking Siri before you are called upon to do it in real crash situation.
  
• Document (date/time/place)/photograph the scene.
  
• Position one cyclist about 100 feet before the crash site to warn approaching motorists to slow down.
  
• Appoint one person to interact with Law Enforcement.
  
• To the extent of your training, check the victims and provide first aid to injured cyclists until assistance arrives. Do not go beyond the training you have received.
  
• Do NOT move an injured cyclist even if they are lying in the road. Moving an injured cyclist may cause severe damage to the neck and back. This is especially true if the cyclist has lost consciousness. Keep the cyclist down until medical personnel arrive.
  
• Contact the injured rider’s Emergency Contact person if necessary.
  
• Submit an Incident Report within 24 hours. Incident Report (electronic form) is located under “rides” on the SLBC home page.
  

The Gawker

If there is a Gawker in the group, you have two choices. Inform them that they need to focus on the ride due to safety concerns. If this does not work, ask them to ride behind the sweep or leave the ride.

The Struggling Cyclist

Ask the cyclist what is going on and listen to what the cyclist says. Potential causes for the behavior are:

• Just a bad day
  
• Dehydration
  
• Bicycle in poor repair
  
• Not enough nutrition for the ride
  
• Riding in the wrong group - intensity too high
  
• Medical issue.
  

Return to Table of Contents

Section 4  Information for Ride Sweeps

Overview

When asked if they want to be a leader or a sweep, most riders will answer: a sweep. There is a perception that the job of the sweep is somehow easier and has less responsibility. After all, how difficult is it to “follow the leader”

The reality is that the sweep has the most difficult job and the most responsibility. The sweep is the eyes and ears at the back, ever alert for threats coming from behind. The sweep makes the decisions for keeping the riders as safe as possible when enroute maneuvers are required.

The sweep has to be a strong rider. When the line stretches out after a roundabout or a turn, the sweep has the most catching up to do. When Ride Leaders and riders do not follow the ride protocol, it is the sweep that sees it all and has to compensate for it.

Effective February 15, 2022: Recertification or Certification as a Ride Sweep

There are two paths to Certification.

1. If you regularly sweep rides, attend a Leader-Sweep Training Session to become recertified.

2. If you are not regularly sweeping rides, attend a Leader-Sweep Training Session and when you are ready, request the Ride Director, Safety Director, or League Cycling Instructor to accompany you on a ride you sweep and evaluate your performance.  With a satisfactory sign off, your name will be placed on the list of certified Ride Sweeps.

Recertification as a Ride Sweep

To maintain your certification as a Ride Sweep, you will need to complete the Leader-Sweep Training every three years.

Ride Sweep Responsibilities

At the ride start

The Ride Sweep is responsible for communicating with the Ride Leader to clearly understand the signal for taking the lane.

If the Ride Sweep does not have the ride route before the ride start, the sweep should ask the Ride Leader if there are any areas where turns or road conditions warrant special alertness.

The Ride Sweep is encouraged to bring a whistle, that is easily accessible while riding, ti be used in the event the Ride Sweep is dropped or must exit the ride unexpectedly.

On the Ride

The Ride Sweep cycles a little to the left of the ride group so that the leader can be seen and so that the leader can see the sweep.

The Ride Sweep uses hand and voice signals for hazards, turns, slowing, and stopping.

The Ride Sweep calls out hazards or concerns coming from behind. Typical calls are:

• “Cars in the left lane” - When approaching a roundabout to alert riders ahead. Motorists have been known to take right turns in front of the ride group from the left lane.
  
• “Cars in the right lane” - When approaching a stop light with a right turn lane to alert riders ahead to NOT veer into the right lane.
  
• “Car back” - When cars are approaching from the rear on two lane roads.
  
• “Passing” - When cars are approaching from the rear on two lane roads and are starting to pass.
  
• “Split” - When an opening exists within the ride group.
  
• “Gap” - When an unusual separation between two ride groups opens behind the Sweep.
  
• “Mechanical” or “Medical” - When there is a problem which requires the ride to stop.
  
• “All Here” or “All Through” - When the sweep is back onto the group after negotiating a roundabout, a turn, or after a stop.
  

• The Ride Leader signals the Ride Sweep that a lane change or merge is coming up.
  
• When a safe opening exists, the Ride Sweep will signal the vehicles behind that he is moving into the left (or right) lane. When the vehicles have seen the signal from the sweep to move, the sweep will move into the lane and block the lane.
  
• When ALL VEHICLES IN FRONT OF THE SWEEP HAVE PASSED THE LEAD CYCLIST, the sweep will call “Take the Lane” or “Take the Next Lane”, or “Take the second lane” (when moving from a bike lane into the first travel lane).
  
• Once the riders hear “Take the Lane” FROM THE SWEEP, all riders may repeat the command and execute the lane change.
  

The Ride Sweep may also recommend that changes to the ride route be implemented before the route is scheduled again.

Problems on the Ride

Crash Protocol

Ride Sweeps have responsibility equal to the Ride Leader for implementing the Crash Protocol. In the event of an emergency, if the Ride Leader is unable to implement the Crash Protocol. The Ride Sweep has the authority to do it.

People Problems

The Ride Sweep has a responsibility to inform the Ride Leader when riders are not following the ride protocol or Mandatory Safety Rules. The Ride Leader and Sweep can discuss how to handle the problem rider, but it is the responsibility of the Ride Leader to initiate any disciplinary action if it is required.

Return to Table of Contents

Section 5  Appendix

This appendix contains useful information that has been contributed by multiple sources.  It is presented here to give novice riders useful information about the sport of bicycling.

SLBC Bike Knowledge and Safety

League of American Bicyclists - Smart Cycling

Enrichment Academy Catalog

The Villages Enrichment Academy occasionally offers bicycle courses.  From Safety and Rules of the Road, Basic Maintenance and Repairs, and Handling Skills.  Visit the catalog to see if the course(s) are available. Go to the Sports section

LAB Smart Cycling Quick Book available at your local bike store.