Last update: 2-6-2023

Everyone is welcome to join Mid-Valley Bicycle Club weekly rides.  If you are NOT a club member, and you’d like to ride as a GUEST, please complete the Liability Waiver Agreement at waiver.mvbc.com, before you ride.  If you would like to become a member of the MVBC, please visit join.mvbc.com.

A ride leader or captain is typically, but not always, present to provide leadership before & during each of our weekly rides.  In the absence of a designated ride leader, ride group participants shall appoint a leader.  If the group separates, each sub group shall designate a leader.

1. An approved helmet while riding with any MVBC hosted activity or event
2. A fully functional bike, in good working order. If unsure, take to local bike shop for a safety check
3. Install fenders on your bike if you participate in group rides during wet weather
4. Use lights and reflectors for riding in the dark. Don’t blind fellow riders with poorly aimed lights.  Use lights with appropriate intensity for the expected conditions.
5. Basic repair kit and spare tube. Know how to use them.
6. Navigation app or device is highly recommended on gravel rides.
7. Be prepared for any kind of weather, good rain gear is invaluable.
8. Carry ID, medical contact info, water, food

Honor all applicable Oregon Bicycle Laws & Regulations.

Wearing earbuds or other devices that limit audio awareness is not allowed while riding.

Be Predictable: Group riding requires extraordinary attention to cycling in a very predictable manner. Generally ride single file and never more than two abreast. The ride leader may require single file riding on certain roads. Ride as close to the edge of the roadway or curb on the right as is safe and practicable unless otherwise specified by law. Others expect you to consistently ride in a straight line, at a constant speed, and to clearly signal changes.

Communicate: Communication is a requirement of safe cycling. Alert others of a change in direction or speed. Participants make a positive contribution to a ride when they provide respectful feedback, reminders and instructive dialogue regarding cycling etiquette and safety.  It is incumbent on all of us to offer courteous input regarding mistakes and riding habits that are dangerous. Here is a video that covers the usual hand signals cyclists use.

Announce Hazards: When riding in a group many cyclists may not have a good view of the road surface ahead because of the riders in front of them.  It is important to indicate hazards by pointing to them and by shouting "Pot Hole!" or "Glass!" or “Rock!” etc.  As cars approach, shout, "Car back!" or "Car up!".

Change Positions Correctly: If you want to pass, do so on the left and say, "On your left!" to warn the cyclists ahead that you are passing. Look behind before changing your line.

Watch your Pace: A group ride, by definition, is designed to accommodate a range of abilities.   When riding near others, adjust your speed to maintain your position and help keep the group together. Slow down on bike paths and when in urban areas

Keep the Group Informed: If you decide to leave the group and ride on your own, inform the ride leader, or another rider, so that people don’t waste time looking for you. Note that any incidents that occur when a rider decides to leave the designated route are not covered by MVBC’s  insurance.

Stop Signs & 4-Way Stops: Use hand signals and a loud voice to let other riders know that you are slowing and stopping.  Follow traffic laws by yielding to vehicles that stop first.  Those at the back of the group must not develop a tendency to blindly follow the group through intersections. Each rider is responsible for his or her own safety; don’t follow the herd. No rider should assume an intersection is clear for the whole group.  Proceed in small groups after each rider comes to a stop at the limit line. Communicate your intentions to motorists.

Move Fully Off the Road Pavement When You Stop:  Insure individual and group safety, and do not interfere with traffic.

Leave a Gap for Cars: When riding up hills or on narrow roads where you are impeding faster traffic, leave a gap between every two to five bicycles so that motorists can take advantage of shorter passing intervals.  If five or more vehicles accumulate behind the group, pull over at the next safe pull out, and allow the vehicles to pass.

Provide Camaraderie and Support: Remember we are a social recreational bicycle club.  Watch out for your fellow cyclist before, during and after the ride.  Help make newcomers feel welcome by introducing yourself.  Don’t immediately spin off to join up with your old cycling buddies. Instead, spend a portion of the ride with new cyclists.

Pedal assist bicycles having a max speed of 28 mph are permitted on club rides.

 These are Class 1 and Class 3 electric bicycles that meet the definition of the Consumer Products Safety Commission and provide battery-powered assistance while pedaling.

•  Always treat others with kindness and respect.
•  Act in a manner which is compatible with the interests of MVBC;
• Accord people courtesy, respect and regard for their rights;
• Treat people's property with respect;
• Show a positive commitment to MVBC’s policies, rules, procedures, guidelines and agreements.

To see full code of conduct policy visit conduct.mvbc.com