If you are just a beginner this article if for you.. Here are some basic riding tips to help you get started and riding in a group.

1. Safety First ? You look out for me and I will lookout for you.
Our number one priority on the ride is your safety. You also have to do your part by ensuring your bicycle is checked by a qualified bicycle mechanic, that your brakes, tyre pressures etc are adjusted correctly. The rest is just practice and being aware of your limitations and being aware of other riders around you. Call out hazards so riders behind will know to be aware.

2. Drafting ? Its fun and can save you a lot of energy, but be careful.
Did you know that you can save up to 30% of your effort by drafting behind another rider? Drafting is really just riding closely behind another rider in single file or two abreast. The front rider has to push against the wind but the rider that is following will use less effort. It's sort of like a boat speeding across a lake forming a V shape. Riders that closely follow people in front will benefit.

A word of caution about Drafting ? Don't cross wheels.
It's okay to closely follow another rider but be aware drafting can be dangerous. If you are following closely remember Never let your front wheel cross the rider in front's rear wheel. If the rider in front suddenly changes direction and you touch wheels it will usually be the rider behind that will be in trouble. Don't let this statement scare you off. Drafting is an efficient way to save energy and share the lead of a group ride. Just be careful and use common sense.

3. Leading the Group ? Keep the group together and keep it going.
Group riding is a lot of fun. If you are feeling energetic learn how to do rotations. Your group leader will usually organise this but if you want to try something new and learn another skill, this could be for you.

Rotating the lead gives the riders at the front of a group a break and lets them recover by drafting. The whole group can effectively travel together much faster and use less effort by rotating the lead.

If you are leading a group Don't suddenly stop pedalling Riders behind will not be aware of the sudden speed change and may run into the back of the lead rider. If you have completed your turn at the front, keep pedalling and when it's safe to do so, move smoothly to the side to let the next leaders through to the front as you fall back into the group.

4. Keep your line ? Imagine you are running on rails
Learn to be a smooth rider in a group. Don't be seen as the one who bounces all over the road, you wont be very popular. Make smooth changes that are predictable to other riders around you. Imagine you are riding on rails like a train, keep your direction changes smooth.

5. Clip in pedals ? First timers
Clip in pedals are great, adjusted correctly they promote an efficient pedalling position and a consistent transfer of energy to the pedals. If you have never used clip in pedals before just remember Every time you are about to stop at a traffic light or stop sign, unclip at least one or even both pedals until it becomes a habit. A lot of people fall off when coming to a stop simply because they forget to unclip.

The idea is to be safe and enjoy the ride.

Be the change you want to see in the world. - Mahatma Gandhi.