I just did my first Group ride this weekend and was amazed by all the proper etiquette that goes with riding in groups. I'm trying to learn everything I can and I'm going to stay with the C group until I got it down. My question is what are some newbie mistakes? What things have you noticed over the years that irritate you about inexperienced riders? Thanks Adam

won't be a big issues in the C pace ride but as you go up the mistakes in a paceline become an issue. Half wheeling, sudden movements, sudden braking...things like that...a lot of this can be worked on while you're with the slower group though.

Don't ride too closely to the wheel ahead of you until you become more comfortable in a paceline; do not half moon that wheel either or you quickly learn what asphalt tastes like. When standing out of the saddle as when climbing a hill, be careful not to throw your back wheel into the rider behind you.

Being smooth is the key....at any speed. If the group does not know you are new to group riding, let them know.

Learn to maintain a steady gap to the rider in front of you without using brakes. Use body position (sit up to slow down a touch), bike position (slide out of line a few inches to slow down even more), and soft pedaling (smoother accelerations) to stay smooth. If the gap opens, slowly increase speed to close it (don't panic and hammer)

Stay alert and focused, so if there is an issue in front of you, you can react. Even if you need to brake hard, brake only as hard as necessary (to help the guy behind you).

Finally, be prepared with tools to fix a flat. Even if you aren't skilled at fixing flats, having the tools shows you are trying.

What they said. Also, I try to look as far forward in the line as possible to see what is going on ahead of me, allows me to react more smoothly. No crossing the wheel in front of you. Smooth and consistent.

Proper line and taking your turn at the front..................that is what I guess for riders. But not necessarily new riders. I believe in nurturing them along to take the lead and their turn to cut the air. Holding your line and knowing where to position comes with time and observation.

Really a newbie to the sport I make all kinds of concessions that I would not for a experienced rider.

I have to say though, cyclist can be some of the most tempermental folks I have met. Uptight at times and I think that takes away from the fun and exercise. I am not the most fanatical cyclist in the world. Don't dwell on the rules too much because lets face it.............95% of us here I am positive never receive paychecks for our efforts!

Just have fun and ride my friend!

Prolly closer to 99.9%

This. We all start out as n00bs, so it's ridiculous to be irritated at someone simply because s/he hasn't had a chance to acquire experience. Just ride and pay attention to what people do. You'll pick up what you need quickly.

Having said that, I find people who don't try or expect others to absorb the costs for repeatedly making the same dumb mistakes annoying.

"C" ride?
Just about the only problem is riders that dart far ahead or drop way back. Both are annoying for the ride leaders that are trying to set a good pace and not lose anyone.

"B" rides or higher?
Pedal...coast. Pedal...coast. Some new riders that are drafting tend to look just at the wheel right in front of them. So when a slight gap forms, they pedal too hard, roll up too close, then coast back. Over and over. That's hard on the riders behind. And it's rare that anyone tells the new rider.

It all comes with experience and lot's of (hopefully) close calls.
Try to make it an habit of looking over your shoulder before making big sideways movements.

Thanks for all the advice. Got another group ride on Saturday and I'm going to keep these things in mind. If anyone lives in the Hampton Roads area and wants to ride (c or b pace) message me. I always up for different route on the weekends. Thanks again!!

Attending group rides, upgrading bike stuff for the sake of it, and shaving legs.

Thinking BF is a good place to get useful advice

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