Ride Leader Responsibilities

Ride Planning Guidelines

Effective ride planning helps ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-organized experience for all participants. When coordinating a ride, please follow these guidelines:

  • Plan your route: Create your route using Ride with GPS or select one from the Bella route library. Whenever possible, choose a route you are familiar with and have previously ridden.
  • Save New Routes: If you create a new route in Ride with GPS, be sure to save it to the Bella route library as a public route so other members can access and download it.
  • Create a meetup event. Post your ride on Meetup using the “Create an Event” feature. For convenience, you may copy a similar past event and edit it. Be sure to include clear details about the ride level, distance, elevation gain, pace, and any additional helpful information.
  • Communication Updates: Notify registered riders promptly of any changes, including cancellations or schedule adjustments due to weather, smoke, or other conditions.

Day-of-ride Guidelines

Proper preparation and clear communication on the day of a ride help ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-organized experience for all participants. Ride coordinators are encouraged to follow these best practices:

  • Arrive Early: Arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time to allow sufficient time for pre-ride discussions, safety checks, and rider introductions.
  • Carry Emergency Contact Information: Maintain access to participant contact information, either stored in your phone or in printed form. Cellular service may be limited, and Meetup access may not be available during the ride.
  • Conduct a pre-ride meeting: Begin with a brief meeting that includes: 
    • Introducing yourself and the sweep rider (if applicable)
    • Having participants introduce themselves
    • Confirming required equipment, including helmets and, for road rides, lights and mirrors
    • Reviewing the route, expected pace, regrouping points, and ride format
    • Providing a safety reminder, encouraging riders to ride within their abilities and avoid unnecessary risks
  • Start Promptly: Begin the ride as close to the posted start time as possible. Riders are expected to arrive prepared and ready to depart on time.
  • Maintain the Advertised Pace: Follow the pace described in the Meetup listing, whether it is a specific average speed or a general description such as “relaxed,” “conversational,” or “brisk.”
  • Foster a Positive Group Environment: Interact with participants in a friendly, supportive, and professional manner throughout the ride.
  • Ensure No Riders Are Left Behind: All Bella rides are no-drop. Confirm that every rider returns to the starting location. Any participant who cannot continue due to fatigue, injury, or mechanical issues must be accompanied by another rider.
  • Regroup Safely at Intersections: Regroup at major intersections as needed. For road rides, regroup on the far side of the intersection to avoid confusing motorists.
  • Be Prepared for Incidents: In the event of an accident or significant incident, respond appropriately and notify [email protected] with details as soon as possible.
  • Represent the Club Positively: Ride courteously and respectfully, reflecting well on Bend Bella Cyclists at all times.
  • Capture the Moment: When appropriate, take a group photo to help document and celebrate the ride.

Following these guidelines helps create a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable experience for all Bella riders.