Group Riding Clinics

Ottawa Bicycle Club members without experience riding in an organized pack must attend a group riding clinic before participating in club rides. The clinics, held on Saturday mornings from April to June, are led by experienced instructors who teach participants group riding techniques that help build confidence in riding with a group and in traffic.  
 

What happens at a group riding clinic? 

Participants and instructors meet Saturday at 9:30 a.m. in front of the Museum at the Experimental Farm on the Driveway, 200 metres west of the Prince of Wales Drive traffic circle. The session, which lasts about 2 hours and takes place entirely outdoors, generally unfolds as follows: 

  • "Ground school": Learn and discuss the basics of pack riding, including terminology, group manoeuvres, safety, hand and voice signals, rotations, group dynamics, bicycle care and maintenance, etc.
  • Off-bike simulation: Rehearse pack riding techniques on foot.
  • On-road practice: Saddle up and apply your new group riding skills on the quiet roads of the Experimental Farm.
  • Optional tour: Take a 20-km group ride on city streets under the guidance of the instructors. Refreshment stop included.

How do I prepare for a clinic?

  • Bring your bicycle and make sure it is in good shape - brakes and shifters working, tires inflated, spare tube or patch kit available, water bottle topped up, kickstand removed.
  • Dress for the season. It can be chilly in the first few weeks of the clinic schedule, so be sure to dress appropriately.

Is there more information?