Whether you are hosting a small, strategic ride or a large community ride-along, safety is the absolute top priority. A well-planned, safe event ensures a positive experience for the candidate and protects your organization. This master checklist covers the universal safety and logistical steps that apply to any candidate bike ride you host.
For more info, review our Community Rides Guide and Ride Support Guide {.is-info}
The Pre-Ride Checklist
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The Pre-Ride Checklist
Expanded details for this section
The Pre-Ride Checklist
These steps should be completed before the day of the ride.
Route Scouting:
- Scout the full route by bike at the same time of day you plan to host the event. Note traffic patterns, road conditions, and potential hazards.
- Identify a "bail-out" point. Have a shorter version of the route planned in case of bad weather or other issues.
- Check for accessibility. Ensure the route is suitable for the expected skill level of all participants.
Legal and Insurance:
- Consult your insurance provider. Understand what your organization's liability insurance covers for events like this.
- Prepare a waiver. It is a best practice to have all participants, including the candidate, sign a liability waiver. Consult with a legal professional to ensure your waiver is sound.
Emergency Preparedness:
- Have a first-aid kit. At least one ride marshal should carry a well-stocked first-aid kit.
- Know the route's emergency access. Note where emergency services could most easily access your route.
- Have key phone numbers ready. This includes the non-emergency police line and a local bike shop that does mobile repairs, if available.
Day-Of-Ride Logistics
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Day-Of-Ride Logistics
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Day-Of-Ride Logistics
These are the essential tasks for the day of the event.
Gear and Bike Check:
- Bring a floor pump. Be prepared to help participants inflate their tires properly.
- Have a basic tool kit. Include tire levers, a patch kit, and a multi-tool.
- Bring spare helmets. Have a few extra, clean helmets on hand. You should require all participants to wear one.
- Confirm the candidate's bike. If you are providing a bike for the candidate, ensure it is in good working order and properly adjusted for their height.
The Pre-Ride Safety Briefing:
- Gather all participants. Before you start riding, bring everyone together.
- Introduce the ride leaders/marshals.
- Briefly explain the route.
- Go over basic safety rules and hand signals. (e.g., stopping, turning right/left, slowing, hazard).
- Announce the "no drop" policy. Reassure everyone that the group will stick together and no one will be left behind.
- Confirm everyone has water and is ready to ride.
During the Ride
- Use Ride Marshals Effectively:
- Lead: Sets the pace at the front.
- Sweep: Rides at the very back to make sure no one is dropped.
- Floating: Ride on the left flank of the group to help with lane control and intersections.
- Communicate Clearly: Use hand signals and verbal cues frequently.
- Be a Good Ambassador: Remember that you are representing your organization. Be courteous to other road users.
By following this checklist, you can ensure that your candidate ride is not only an effective advocacy tool but also a safe, responsible, and well-managed event.