• Prefer a route with low traffic levels, good road surface and wide shoulders— avoid heavily trafficked roads and intersections
• Consider what traffic conditions will be like at the time of day the ride will take place
• Schedule the ride with enough daylight hours for the slowest rider to finish and/or to accommodate repairs
• Require lights and reflectors if riding after dark
• Prefer clockwise routes to avoid as many left turns as possible
• Plan for appropriate rest/food/water/toilet stops enroute
• Provide a legible and accurate map and/or cue sheet with distances given; include emergency contact numbers on the map and show the location
• of any known hazards such as railroad tracks, metal bridges, construction sites, etc.
• Know the state and local traffic laws of the area to be cycled
• Choose a starting point with ample parking and get permission to use it if it’s not public property
• Accurately classify and promote your trip with regard to skill level and difficulty

• Provide sign-up/waiver forms and be certain everyone registers
• Distribute maps
• Don’t start a ride if dangerous weather is imminent or conditions such as icy roads exist
• Observe participant’s equipment for obvious problems
• Welcome everyone and let them know that safe riding is a concern and:
  - all traffic laws must be obeyed
  - helmets must be properly worn whenever on a bike
  - they should not try to ride beyond their ability or fitness level
  - they should signal and verbalize their moves (slowing, stopping, turning, etc.).
  - they should announce road hazards since the leader cannot be everywhere, riders should be responsible for each other
• Neophytes should be instructed on these practices
• If you plan to lead from the front, recruit a qualified rider to bring up the rear. If leading from the rear, appoint a knowledgeable rider to take the front
• Check out the route by bike or car as close to the day of the ride as feasible

• Never confront drivers of motor vehicles; if being harassed, get full description of vehicle and driver and report the incident to the proper authorities as soon as possible
• Encourage participants who experience physical problems that may impair their ability to ride safely (such as severe dehydration, heat stress, hypothermia, etc.) to seek other modes of transportation back to the start
• Instruct riders stopping for repairs or other reasons to get fully off the road
• Tactfully coach riders who do not follow the "rules of the road" about their transgressions
• Be watchful for potential equipment related safety problems such as loose clothing that could get caught in a wheel
• At the scene of an accident: - take charge unless someone more qualified has already done so
  - secure the scene to minimize risk to everyone present
  - appoint individuals to direct traffic, administer first aid, and seek medical help if necessary
  - do not move the victim unless he/she is in imminent danger
  - gather as much information as possible for your occurrence report

• Make certain that all riders are accounted for, especially in more remote areas
• File an occurrence report with your council risk management representative if a reportable incident has occurred on your ride
• Make notes on the route/ride and suggestions for improvements the next time it is held

This material is from the
Hostelling International-American Youth Hostels
Activity Leadership Manual
First Edition
May 1, 1995