Use these maneuvers to keep the group safe, smooth, and predictable. Also, follow the Group Leader’s direction at all times.
Starting
First, the leader announces the start and rolls out slowly.
Next, riders soft pedal until the whole group forms up.
Then, the leader increases speed once everyone is in position.
Riding formation (Decision Matrix)
In general, the group rides double file where traffic laws allow it.
However, the leader may switch the group to single file if traffic or road conditions require it.
Double file improves visibility and often encourages drivers to pass with more space.
Changing to single file
The Group Leader calls single file when conditions require it.
When the call happens:
First, inside riders leave about one bike length to the rider ahead.
Next, outside riders move in, one at a time, ahead of the rider on their right.
Then, the group continues in single file until conditions improve.
As soon as it is safe, the group returns to double file.
Alignment (avoid “half-wheeling”)
When riding double file, keep your wheels level with your partner’s.
Do not creep ahead or drift back (“half-wheeling”).
Also, keep a small offset behind the rider in front for extra braking space.
In single file, keep your front wheel behind the rider ahead (with a slight offset). Again, do not half-wheel.
Rotating at the front – General
Rotate often to reduce fatigue.
If you feel tired, rotate through quickly.
If you feel strong, stay a bit longer. However, do not “hog” the front.
Rotating – Double file rotations
The outside lead rider calls “ROTATE.”
Usually, the group rotates clockwise.
However, in strong crosswinds, the Group Leader may choose anti-clockwise rotation.
With clockwise rotation:
First, the outside lead rider speeds up slightly and moves across in front of the inside lead rider.
Next, the inside lead rider calls “CLEAR” when the outside rider can move into the inside position.
Then, outside riders move up one place and inside riders move back one place.
Finally, the inside rear rider moves over to become the tail rider.
Rotating – Single file rotations
The lead rider calls “ROTATE,” moves left, and eases off slightly.
This lets the group move forward without accelerating.
The lead rider chooses when it is safe to rotate.
In some cases, a clockwise rotation may work better, such as on a wide shoulder with heavy traffic.
In that case, the lead rider calls “ROTATE” and shifts right, so the group can pass on the left without leaving the bike lane.
Hazards
Lead rider(s) call hazards like bumps, gravel, or roadkill when the group cannot clearly see them.
Point to the hazard and call it out, so riders know which side to pass.
Then, riders repeat the message to the back.
Turning – Right turn
Lead riders call the turn and riders pass the call back with hand signals.
The tail rider signals the turn to traffic behind.
Stop if needed. Then proceed when safe.
If you do not need to stop, coast through with your right pedal up.
Turning – Left turn
Lead riders call the turn and riders pass the call back with hand signals.
The tail rider decides when it is safe to move across, signals traffic, and directs the group.
Riders move across from rear to front.
Repeat as needed on multi-lane roads.
Stop if required. Then proceed when safe.
If you do not need to stop, coast through with your left pedal up.
Hills – Uphill
Shift to an easier gear and climb steadily.
Try to hold formation when possible.
However, if the group splits on long or steep climbs, regroup at the top.
So, stop or soft pedal and wait for everyone. Do not leave slower riders behind.
Hills – Downhill
Lead riders keep pedaling.
The group will often close gaps downhill because drafting increases speed.
Vehicles behind the group
The tail rider calls “CAR PASSING” or “CAR BACK.”
The tail rider should not wave vehicles through. Instead, let drivers decide when it is safe.
Separation between groups
Leave enough space between groups so a vehicle can pass one group and merge back safely.
This improves safety and respects other road users.
Also, do not let two groups merge into one large group.
Passing other riders or groups
First, check that the road ahead is clear.
Next, call “PASSING.”
Then, pass with plenty of space.
If the lane is narrow or traffic is coming, wait until it is safe.
If traffic is behind, the tail rider signals left to show the group will pass.
The lead rider of the front group may slow slightly to help the group behind pass safely.
Stopping
The lead rider calls “STOPPING.”
Then, gear down, stop pedaling, and brake smoothly.
Move fully off the road when you stop to chat, fix a flat, or regroup.
Slowing
A rider calls “SLOWING.”
Then, stop pedaling and prepare to brake.
Riders slow from rear to front, so nobody overlaps wheels.
Echelons
Echelons help pros in crosswinds, but they require closed roads and strict control. Therefore, do not use echelons on OBC group rides.