Rules and Riding Guidelines

Advice for newcomers and important reminders for experienced riders

The Club's aim is to help members ensure their own safety, the safety of their companions and
other road users by developing effective cycling skills, good communication, mutual
understanding and respect.

Obeying the Club Rules and adhering to the Club Riding Guidelines will help to achieve this aim.

1. General Rules, All Members Must:
 Obey the Highway Code at all times.
 Ensure your bike is well-maintained, roadworthy, and fitted with effective mudguards in wet
weather.
 Carry good working lights when visibility is poor.
 Behave responsibly and considerately towards all other road users. (See also s9)
 Look out for fellow riders in your group — this is everyone’s responsibility, not just the
leader’s.
 Follow the Guidelines and recommendations of Cycling UK (CTC).

2. Membership and Insurance Requirements
 Hold third-party personal liability insurance acceptable to the Club.
 Carry your Club membership card, or other ID and emergency contact details.
 Keep insurance contact information accessible (e.g. on your Cycling UK card).

3. Group Riding Conduct
 Ride as a group: maintain your position and stay behind the leader except on hills.
 Keep to the left and ride two abreast only when safe for traffic to overtake.
 When singling up, the inside rider goes ahead and the outside rider slots in behind.
 Stay in contact with the rider behind; if someone drops back, pass a message forward to the
leader.
 Keep a comfortable but close distance to the rider in front — no overlapping wheels.
 Ride smoothly and predictably; avoid sudden braking or swerving.

4. Communication and Safety Awareness
 Be capable of riding one-handed to signal or look behind safely.
 Use clear verbal and hand signals to communicate with others.
 Do not signal to vehicles behind to overtake — let drivers make their own decisions.
 Show courtesy and patience towards all road users.

 Carry essential tools: a spare tube, pump, and multi-tool, and know how to fix a puncture.
 Inform the ride leader if you intend to leave the group early.

5. Guidance for Ride Leaders
 Plan routes appropriate to the riding ability of the group, including self-propelled bike users.
 Decide whether the ride goes ahead based on weather and road conditions.
 Count riders at the start, appoint a Back Marker, and brief the group on the route.
 Assign a “Buddy” for new members or guests, usually riding near the back with them.
 Ensure the group stays together; split into smaller groups if necessary.
 Be aware of the pace — do not race ahead.

6. Managing Stops and Communication as a Ride Leader
 Choose safe stopping places, avoiding junctions and bends.
 Warn riders only about unexpected hazards.
 Communicate instructions and warnings clearly throughout the ride.
 Record details of any accident or incident involving injury or damage.
 Post a ride summary or report on the Club’s blog, including if a ride was cancelled.
 Ensure new members or guests know their way home after the ride.

7. Guidance for Back Markers
 Assist the Leader to keep the group together.
 Warn of traffic from the rear, only where there is a potential danger.
 Look after problems or stragglers at the back, and communicate with the Leader.

8. Guidance for Buddies
 Advise new members or guests about the Club's riding guidelines.
 Ride with the new member or guest near the back of the group.
 All experienced Club riders are potential Buddies.

9. Guidance for Riding on Shared Paths and Narrow Lanes
When riding on shared-use paths or on roads without pavements, it’s important to show
courtesy, awareness, and respect for other road and path users. The following guidance
incorporates the principles of the Highway Code, particularly Rules 62 and 63.

Shared-Use Paths (Highway Code Rule 62)
 Shared paths are for both cyclists and pedestrians. Some may also be used by horse riders.
 Be considerate: Always give plenty of space to people walking. Remember they may be less
aware of your approach, particularly those with sight or hearing difficulties.
 Adjust your speed: Ride at a pace that allows you to slow down or stop quickly if needed. On
busy or narrow sections, it may be safer to dismount.
 Give audible warning: Use your bell or a friendly call to alert others of your presence well in
advance—then pass slowly and courteously.

 Keep left and pass on the right: Where possible, keep to the left-hand side of the path and
overtake on the right, only when it’s safe to do so.
 Be visible: Use lights in poor visibility and wear reflective or bright clothing.

Narrow Lanes and Roads Without Pavements (Highway Code Rule 63)
 Position yourself clearly: Ride in the centre of your lane when it’s unsafe for vehicles to
overtake—especially on bends, narrow bridges, or near parked cars.
 Allow overtaking where safe: When the road widens or visibility improves, move slightly to
the left to let faster traffic pass when it’s safe.
 Watch for pedestrians: In places without pavements, expect people walking in the road—
especially on rural lanes. Slow down and give them plenty of space.
 Be patient and predictable: Avoid sudden movements. Signal clearly when turning or
changing position on the road.
 Take extra care at junctions: Make eye contact with drivers and ensure they’ve seen you
before you proceed.

General Courtesy

Cycling responsibly helps everyone share the road or path safely. A friendly attitude,

awareness of others, and good communication go a long way in preventing conflict and

keeping journeys enjoyable for all.

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Meridian club rules and riding guidelines, amended October 2025