Welcome!
We’re thrilled to have you join us for this unforgettable (not just in our opinion) cycling adventure. Your safety, enjoyment, and the camaraderie of the ride are our top priorities. Please read the following guidelines carefully.
1. Pre-Ride – welcome to ask Lorenzo, our senior mechanic for aid.
- Bike & Gear Check: Ensure your bike is in top condition—inspect brakes, gears, chain, and tires daily. Carry basic spares (tube, pump, multi-tool).
- Helmet Rule: Helmets are mandatory—it’s the (unenforceable) law !
- Hydration & Nutrition: Stay hydrated—fill your bottles before departure and at water points. Carry energy snacks (provided, check with Mark) to maintain stamina.
- Weather Preparedness: Conditions vary, so pack accordingly—rain gear, sunscreen, and layers for cool mornings, yes, even in summer.
2. Riding Safely on Open Roads
- Traffic Awareness: Obey all traffic laws, officials, marshalls, medics, and ride captains. Roads are open to all vehicles—ride kindly, defensively, and thankfully.
- Group Etiquette: The usual applies. Ride no more than two abreast and switch to single file when asked, or deemed necessary. Be obvious.
- Road Conditions: Albeit few if indeed and at all present on our magical roads, watch for potholes, gravel (sand- or landslides), and rocks.
- Support Vehicles: If you need assistance, pull over safely and wait for the support crew. Text them with a simple pin and message, on Whatsapp. There’s signal everywhere – however, best is to stay with your ride captains. If asked to board the sweep vehicle, please comply.
3. Emergency & Security Protocols
- First Aid & Medical Support: Support vehicles carry first-aid kits. We all know tourniquets. If you or another rider needs medical help, alert a ride captain, who will contact support staff immediately.
- Breakdowns & Assistance: If your bike has mechanical issues, move to a safe spot and notify the ride captain. Limited repairs are available, BUT we’ll get you home.
- Emergency Contacts: Ensure we have your emergency contact details before the tour starts. Check with Nico via text or email – like right now. Insurance sorted?
- Bike Security: You are responsible for your bike. Theft is rare but possible—secure your bike or, better yet, install a **3bo tracker** (ask Carinus).
4. Indemnity & Responsibilities
- Indemnification: By law, you must please sign an indemnity form before departure.
- Personal Responsibility: Stay aware, listen to your body, and respect the ride captains’ decisions. We ride in all weather unless conditions become unsafe—changes will be at the organizers’ discretion.
5. General Guidelines & Etiquette
- Littering: We take pride in our landscapes—respect the environment. Pick up trash when possible, even when it is not yours.
- No Phones: While Riding, stay focused—music and calls can wait.
- Be Early, Be Ready: (no pumping of wheels 5 mins before departure : ) The tour won’t wait for latecomers. Starts are on schedule. You and your ride captain, and other members of your group will determine your starts, your stops, and your finishes. NEVER be late for beer.
- Enjoy the Ride: Cycling is about the journey—soak in the scenery, make memories, and most importantly, have fun!
Final Thought
KEEP LEFT! This was a British colony (and Dutch, and German, but that’s besides the point).
