The golden rules
SAFETY is always the number one priority of any QCR group ride
- Carry In case of Emergency information (ICE). It should include personal ID and who to contact
- Wearing a helmet is mandatory
- Use of a good rear light is recommended even during day rides
- Indicate hazards to riders behind
- Your front wheel should never overlap the rear wheel of the rider ahead
- No unplugged bar ends
- No earphones in a group ride. Even in one ear.
- Remove aerobars. QCR do not allow bikes with aerobars on group rides
- Give and receive advice graciously and lead by example!
- Introduce yourself to new riders. Make them feel welcome
Corona Virus precautions
- Masks must be carried and worn at all times when not riding. Buff-style scarves are not acceptable face coverings.
- Do not join a ride if you have a temperature or cold or flu symptoms or have been close to someone in the previous 3 days who has - no matter how mild
- Do not join a ride if you are required to self-quarantine, are awaiting test results or have or have had close contact with someone in this position - even if your own Ehteraz app is green
- MOPH social distancing rules must be followed when not riding
- Minimise time spent in shops or petrol stations to refill bottles. Do not remove masks to eat or drink indoors and show respect to the staff.
- Group size is limited to 12. Ride in a way which prevents groups merging, even if this means slowing down to prevent a catch or giving way to those passing.
- Mix only with those from your pace group at the ride start
- Reduce what you need the support car to carry and be mindful to sanitise that which you do
- Carry your own tools and inner tubes AND know how to use them
This is not guidance, these are the rules to which you agree if you want to take part in the ride. Regardless of your personal feelings on the use of masks and other restrictions, following these rules shows respect to your fellow cyclists and helps ensure that we can ride our bikes together. You may wish to make yourself aware of the full MOPH requirements of the current phase of reopening.
Bring with you
- Enough water to stay hydrated between stops. Don't rely on water in the cars
- Food - remember that riding in the heat uses energy. Some emergency Haribos or a banana to keep away sugar-lows are the minimum. Rides have one or two stops to restock food and water.
- Spare tube(s) and tools - even though cars have spare wheels you should be self sufficient
- Money - 15 to 20 QAR to pay the driver plus extra for food and water
- A road bike - a mountain bike or street bike will struggle to stay with its skinny-tyre friends
Group riding
In Qatar, your enemy is the wind and your ride buddies are your weapon. Use them.
- Follow the instructions of ride captains and learn from the experienced riders
- Learn about how to ride in a group and how a group works in an echelon. Find out how the lead is switched from the ride leader or other experienced group members. The internet is full of advice but here is a good start.
- Stay close to the rider in front and to the rider beside you. The tighter the group, the more it blocks the wind for everyone.
- Don't watch the wheel in front, watch the riders and road ahead. That way you'll predict changes in speed.
- Ride to keep the group together. Strong riders; don't accelerate when you hit the front. Tired riders; know your limits and skip a turn on the front if you need to
- Always expect the unexpected when it comes to vehicles on the road
- Don't brake for speed humps. Take weight off the front wheel to help it roll over.
