Under Alabama Law, bicycles must follow the same rules as automobiles while on the street.
Call out hazards ( “Gravel!”, “Pothole!”, “Speed Bump!”, “Railroad Tracks!”, etc.) to those behind you. If safe to do so, also point them out.
This signals to the rider behind you your intent to change direction/speed. The accepted international signals:
- Right Turn – point your right arm to the right – announce “Right Turn” (**Note…Americans are taught to use the left arm bent at the elbow pointed up….this makes sense in a car….not on a bike)
- Left Turn – Point your left arm to the left – announce “Left Turn”
- Slowing/Stopping – Hold your right arm/hand down, palm open facing backwards – announce “Slowing” or “Stopping”
Don’t make sudden changes of direction or rapid acceleration or decelerations.
Leave the larger group conversations for the rest stops
Announce “on your left” when overtaking other riders.
If you find the pace challenging, let someone know…..this will get communicated to the ride leader who will slow the pace. If you find the group pace too easy, soft pedal…Do not pass the ride leader.
Leave maneuver space to react to unforeseen circumstances (i.e. swerving to avoid a pothole)
Announce “mechanical” or “flat tire” to let the group know. The support riders / SAG wagon will assist you in getting repaired and back on the road.
The Ride Leader will bunch the group before proceeding, and “Corkers” will block traffic while the group moves through. Pay attention to the ride leader and support riders for directions.
Pedal On!
Chad Skaggs, Ride Marshal
Families are welcome at the Tweed Ride! Pets and young children must stay with their parents. Pets must be able to ride with their owner; please do not ride with your pet running alongside. This is a pleasure ride, not a race; the pace is leisurely, and several long stops for refreshment are built into the day. That said, children under the age of ten riding independently are unlikely to be able to keep the pace over the course of the day. Still have questions? Please feel free to get in touch at tweedridehsv@gmail.com.