Road Cycling Etiquette

Here’s the updated unwritten rules when going out for a ride:

1- Think ion Covid-19. Careful where you blow your nose or spit. Go to the back of the pace line and do your thing. Never, ever spit against the wind. Leroy Brown did that and he got a whipping from Jim.

2- When making a pass on a slower rider, resist the looking back especially if you don't know who the rider is. It’s the ultimate disrespect! Its like telling the rider that, “you’re slow, and you can’t do anything about it.” If you cant help to peek, do it in the most subtle of ways. If the rider turns out to be Tadej Pogacar, it won’t be embarrassing if he drops you later.

3- When there are obstacles ahead, like a pothole, a slow motor vehicle, a dog- point your hand in that direction and shout, “Pothole!!!”. I caused a crashed because I failed to  make the signal. I saw the wood, but I just didn’t care at that point. I never felt so guilty after the crash.

4- If you are drafting on another rider during a climb, you are enjoying his draft. Therefore, give him/her the courtesy of reaching the destination first. Don’t be a douche and attack. Instead, say, “thank you for the draft. You are very strong!” Or you can overtake gently and say, “let me set the pace while you stay at the back and take a rest”.

5- It’s a nice gesture to wave to all the riders you meet on the road. However, if they don't wave back, don't be upset. We don't wave to all the people we meet at the mall and some don't wave back. If you don’t get a response wave, just move on. Don’t pen your feelings on FB.

6. If you come in 2nd place during a race, never, ever, raise your hand to celebrate. Celebrations are for winners. It is rude to take the moment away from the winner. Only triathletes celebrate for finishing, roadies plan for revenge instead.

7- Don’t feel entitled and scream at other road user, who, in your opinion, had erred. That’s road rage. The other driver could be armed. Let it go. After a few minutes, you’ll forget about the incident.

8- Before going out on a ride, make sure you don't stink. A deodorant would work fine. Also, wear a fresh kit every time you go out. I remember that there was this Fil-Am rider would simply spray alcohol on his socks and wear it again. Maybe it’ll work with socks, but not with jerseys.

9. Bring money during a group ride and don’t wait for someone to pay for your food. Nobody likes a free loader, unless someone from the group insist on picking up the tab.

10-  When you are in a checkpoint, be courteous. Prepare your papers/ID. Don’t argue with the police, nothing will come out of it. They’re just enforcing an order from a superior. Or they could be tired. If you don't like the checkpoint, let it be known in the 2022 elections.

11- Dispose of your trash properly. Kana lang.