Bunch Ride Finder

So you have been riding on your own for some time, clocking up the miles and you’ve been thinking of joining that Bunch…. here are some tips and tricks for joining a Bunch Ride for the first time.

1. Do your research on the bunch ride:
When heading out with a bunch for the first time, its a good idea to find out as much information on the bunch ride as you can. Ask questions;
How long is the Ride?  Does the Bunch stop for punctures? What’s the average speed of the bunch ride?…etc

Why? the more you know the more you’ll enjoy the ride. For example, You don’t want to be in the middle of nowhere and get dropped by the pace of the bunch because you can’t keep up with the speed.

2. Be prepared:
After arming yourself with knowledge, it’s time to ‘gear up’. Have a full water bottle, 2 spare tubes, tyre leavers, a pump, multi tool, money, lights  and a bike in good working order.

You will find that the majority of Bunches will wait for a mechanical or a puncture, but its expected that you will have all the stuff you need to fix what’s wrong. If the mechanical is beyond what you can fix with a Multi tool, tell the bunch to continue without you and call a friend for a pick up. If you are taking ages to change that tube, ask someone to give you a hand – a quick tube repair is the goal!
Oh, and no tri bars! these are a bit of a no-no.

3. Joining the Bunch:
The best way to ride with a new bunch for the first time is to hang around the back of the bunch, let all the regulars buddy up with their mates, and then fill a gap at the back. Here’s your chance to slowly integrate with the bunch have a chat and meet new people.

4. Riding in the Bunch:
The key is to ride ‘smooth‘, don’t slam on your brakes, keep the same pace. If you find that you can’t hold the average speed, drop to the back of the group. Stay side by side by keep your handle bars in line with the guy next to you, don’t ‘half wheel’ the guy next to you.

5. Go for a Brew:
While chatting at the back of the bunch with your new mate, find out about where the majority of the bunch heads for coffee after the ride. This is where you’ll meet more people, and over time you’ll be a regular!

That’s just a few simple tips for getting started on the right foot with the local bunch ride.

If there is any other advice for a new comer, leave a message below: