FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What Would You Like to Know?
WHAT ARE THE MEMBERSHIP FEES AND WHAT DO THEY INCLUDE?
Our annual membership fee is $35. This fee includes access to all club-organized rides, discounts at local bike shops, access to exclusive club events, and insurance coverage during club activities. Additionally, members receive regular email and Facebook communications with updates and tips.
WHAT ARE THE SKILL AND FITNESS LEVELS OF THE CLUB RIDES?
We desire to cater to all skill and fitness levels! Our club organizes rides that range from beginner to advanced. Beginners can join our leisurely social rides, which cover shorter distances at a slower pace, while experienced cyclists can participate in our challenging long-distance rides. Check our ride calendar for more details on each ride's difficulty level.
WHAT TYPE OF RIDES AND EVENTS DOES THE CLUB ORGANIZE?
Our club organizes a variety of rides, including casual social rides, training rides, occasional long-distance tours, and maybe even a competitive event! We also host a season kick-off and season end celebration. There’s something for everyone, whether you're looking to improve your fitness, meet new people, or explore new routes.
WHAT IS THE RIDE SCHEDULE AND HOW DO I JOIN A RIDE?
Our ride schedule template is posted on our website and updated as needed. You can join a ride by signing up to be a member from the Join Now page, which will get you access to our TeamSnap: our preferred app for the most up-to-date Ride Schedule, Route Listing, and Rider Availability. Each ride listing includes the meeting time, location, and a description of the route. Simply RSVP to the ride you want to join, and make sure to arrive at the meeting point a few minutes early.
WHAT EQUIPMENT OR GEAR DO I NEED TO PARTICIPATE, AND WHAT SHOULD I BRING WITH ME ON A GROUP RIDE?
To join our rides, you’ll need the following equipment and gear:
Roadworthy Bike: Ensure your bike is in good working condition.
Helmet: Wearing a helmet is mandatory for safety.
Flat Repair Kit: Carry a spare tube, tire levers, and a pump or CO2 inflator to handle flats.
Nutrition and Hydration: Bring enough food and water to stay fueled and hydrated throughout the ride.
Personal Items: Bring any personal items you might need, such as an ID, cash or card, and a phone.
Appropriate Gear: Wear cycling clothing appropriate for the weather and the duration of the ride.
Timeliness: Ensure you arrive on time. The published times are for departure, so it’s best to be a few minutes early.
If you’re unsure about your gear, our experienced members are always happy to offer advice and help you get prepared.
WHAT ARE THE KEY ETIQUETTE RULES I SHOULD FOLLOW DURING GROUP RIDES?
Group rides are more enjoyable and safe when everyone follows these key etiquette rules:
Respect the Ride: Stick to the advertised pace and respect the ride leader and fellow cyclists. If the pace is listed as 14-16 mph, be prepared to ride at that speed. Avoid pushing the pace or attacking the group on climbs unless specified.
Stay Alert: Always pay attention to your surroundings, including the road surface, traffic, and other riders. Call out holes and debris to keep everyone safe. Be aware of what’s happening behind you as well as in front.
Ride Formation: We typically ride two abreast, as allowed in WI and MN, unless the ride leader asks for single file. Avoid riding three across unless temporarily necessary.
Avoid Half Wheeling: Half wheeling is when you consistently ride a half wheel ahead of the person next to you, pushing the pace unintentionally. Avoid this to maintain the group’s advertised speed.
Don’t Overlap Wheels: When drafting, ensure your front wheel doesn’t overlap with the rear wheel of the bike ahead. Sudden movements can cause accidents if wheels are overlapped.
Follow the Leader: The ride leader will call out turns, stops, and traffic updates. Pay attention to their instructions and obey traffic laws. This helps in safely navigating through towns and onto less traveled roads.
Smooth Restarts: After stopping, pedal softly to allow the group to reform. Not everyone starts at the same time, so give a few moments for everyone to get back up to speed.
Be Self-Sufficient: Carry what you need to repair a flat, along with your own nutrition and hydration. Arrive on time as published departure times are adhered to strictly.
By following these guidelines, you’ll contribute to a safer, more enjoyable riding experience for everyone involved.