Before coming on an off-road ride:

• Make sure your bike is in good working order. If you are unsure take it to your local bike shop for a service before coming out. A badly maintained bike is likely to cause hold-ups and will quickly make you unpopular with the group!

• Bring at least one spare inner tube, a puncture repair outfit, tyre levers and a working pump, plus a small multi-tool. If you are unsure how to change a tube we will help you, but you must have your own spares.

• You will also need to carry a waterproof top, drink, emergency food (cereal bar/banana) and some money if there is a café stop.

• Carry some identification.

• Dress appropriately for the weather – the wind chill when cycling is much greater than running etc, so shorts are generally not suitable in winter.

On the ride:

• The ride leader’s job is to show the route. If for any reason you are unable to complete the route you must take care of getting yourself back to Stourbridge. The off-road rides rarely get more than 5 miles away from Stourbridge centre.

• It is courteous to stay behind the leader.

• If the group is large encourage weaker/less technically adept riders to stay close to the leader. This allows the leader to better judge the pace for the group and reduces the need to stop for re-groups. If you wish to ride a section faster than the group don’t push past, drop back and then use the fast section to catch up again.

• If you wish to leave the ride before it is complete always make sure the leader knows you are going, otherwise they may waste time looking for you.

• Always be courteous to other users of the countryside – your actions reflect on the group and the Stourbridge Cycling Club.

• If you are dirty make sure you cover the seats in the café.

• You are welcome to try 2 or 3 rides before joining Stourbridge CC, but if you wish to continue coming out you will be expected to join.