Code of Conduct

To make sure life stays great and people stay happy here is a list to remind us all of what is expected when out riding.

We are a friendly & supportive group and happy to help fellow riders.

The following expectations allow us to keep everyone safe on a ride. If there is something that worries you please get in touch, or come and find me at the start of a ride – Sarah.

Please read it carefully and there is a button to register for our rides at the bottom of the page.

In no particular order:

  1. Be respectful, kind & courteous to your fellow riders and other people
  2. Introduce yourself to the ride leader and other riders
  3. No one gets left behind. If you are struggling please let your fellow riders know.
  4. Adhere to the Highway Code
  5. Adhere to the Countryside Code
  6. Self Reliance:
    • Carry your own tools/kit and know how to use them
    • Carry your own spares
    • Be prepared for the weather
    • Carry easily accessible contact details in case of emergency
    • Ensure you are in good physical condition for the ride
    • Carry your own food and hydration
  1. Keep your bike and kit in good working order
  2. Always ask before helping someone
  3. We may speed up if conditions allow but we don’t race
  4. Never come back the way you went
  5. We respect the environment:
    • Stick to trails to prevent widening and erosion
    • Dispose of waste properly or carry it home
    • Respect flora and fauna
    • Adopt Leave No Trace principles

E-Bikes

As a participant using an electrically assisted pedal cycle (E-bike) during this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

1. Legal Compliance

I confirm that my e-bike complies with the applicable laws and regulations for use on public roads and rights of way in the United Kingdom. I understand that it is my responsibility to ensure my e-bike is legally compliant.

2. Roadworthy Condition

I confirm that my e-bike is in good mechanical condition and has been inspected before the ride. I accept responsibility for ensuring that:

  • Brakes, tyres and steering are in good working order.
  • The battery is securely fitted and in good condition.
  • Electrical components are functioning correctly.
  • Lights are fitted and operational where required.
  • My bicycle is suitable for the terrain and distance of the event.

3. Battery Safety

I understand the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and confirm that:

  • My battery is undamaged and has not been modified.
  • I will use only the manufacturer’s approved battery and charger.
  • I will not attempt to charge a damaged or overheating battery.
  • I will immediately report any battery malfunction to the ride leader if it presents a safety concern.

4. Riding Responsibility

I understand that an e-bike can accelerate more quickly and travel at higher average speeds than a conventional bicycle. I agree to:

  • Ride within my abilities.
  • Adjust my speed appropriately for other riders and trail users.
  • Leave adequate stopping distances.
  • Ride courteously and predictably.
  • Follow all instructions from the ride leader.

5. Battery Range

I understand that battery range varies depending on terrain, weather, rider weight, assistance level and other factors. I accept responsibility for ensuring my battery has sufficient charge for the planned route and understand that the organiser is not responsible if I exhaust my battery before completing the ride.

6. Mechanical or Electrical Failure

I understand that electrical or mechanical failures may occur during the ride. I accept responsibility for arranging my own recovery if my bicycle becomes unusable, unless assistance is voluntarily offered by other participants.

7. Assumption of Risk

I acknowledge that participation in an organised cycling event using an e-bike involves inherent risks, including collisions, falls, mechanical failure, electrical failure, adverse weather and changing road or trail conditions.

I voluntarily accept these risks and agree to participate at my own risk.

8. Liability

I accept responsibility for my own actions and decisions while participating in this event.

Nothing in this declaration excludes or limits any liability that cannot legally be excluded or limited under the laws of England and Wales, including liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence.

Towpath Code

When Cycling on Towpaths we follow the:

1. Share the space

Towpaths are popular places to be enjoyed by everyone. Please be mindful of others. Keep dogs under control and clean up after them. 

2. Drop your pace

Pedestrians have priority on our towpaths so cyclists need to be ready to slow down. If you’re in a hurry, consider using an alternative route for your journey. 

3. It’s a special place

Our waterways are living history with boats, working locks and low bridges, so please give way to waterway uses and be extra careful where visibility is limited. 

What to do if you fall in the canal:

  1. Don’t Panic: canals are shallow at the edges and you may be able to stand up.
  2. Don’t swallow any water. The canals are much cleaner than they used to be but best not to drink it.

Here is a useful video by the Canal & River Trust.

Younger Riders

Riders under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian or responsible adult nominated by them.

The accompanying adult remains responsible for the young person’s supervision and welfare throughout the event.

Ride leaders are not acting in loco parentis and are not responsible for supervising children.

Also:

The Bicycle Adventure club is an inclusive club and we welcome all races, ages, genders, sizes, faiths, abilities and orientations.

The Bicycle Adventure Club is a non-competitive club. 

You are joining Bicycle Adventure Club Rides entirely at your own risk.  Ride within your limits.

We do our best to explain what the ride physically requires but you are responsible for ensuring you can undertake physical activity of this nature and if in doubt should seek advice from your GP.

Long days outdoors riding off road, cross country and unfamiliar routes is physically and mentally demanding. Please be aware that a ride of this nature will stress your body beyond your regular riding routine. Don’t over estimate your abilities.

Bicycle Adventure Club often ride off-road and you will need to be prepared to carry your bike and gear to navigate obstacles.

We are not the helmet or hi-viz police. Whilst we recommend you wear a helmet to ride in it is ultimately your chioce. Please make sure you are dressed appropriately for the kind if riding you will be doing; as well as the weather.

We will ask you to leave the ride if your conduct or equipment is deemed unsuitable.

You may be photographed or video whilst on group rides for use on our website or social media platforms. If you would rather not be included in this please let your ride leader know.

You may also Wish to read our:

PRIVACY POLICY

If you are happy with that lot you can register to ride with us HERE.

If you would like to unregister please go HERE.

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