Frequently Asked Questions

By New Members

• Do I have to pre-register, or can I just show up to an event?  

You must pre-register. You will be turned away if you just show up.  But registration is quick and easy:  click on a event on the Calendar, it will show an event description and other parameters. Click on “Register” and follow instructions.  Be sure to cancel your registration if you cannot make it, following the instructions on the event posting.

• What should I bring/wear for a group ride?  See checklist-Items to bring
  

Be sure your clothes and other equipment are appropriate for the weather and the event description. Check with the event Coordinator for specific questions

• Who do I contact if I have questions about the event?  

The event Coordinator shown on the event posting is the best source for specific questions.  If you are unable to make that contact, you may contact us via connect@elbowvaleycc.org and we will put the Coordinator in touch with you.

• When I arrive, how do I recognize my riding group? 

Check the event posting; many Coordinators include what area of a parking lot to meet, etc.  Look for cars together with bike racks.  The club jerseys are very distinctive, so watch for those.  If you arrive early, make yourself obvious, and others will see and gather where you are. Also, always give yourself plenty of time to get yourself and your bike ready.  The events start at precisely the time listed.

•  Does the event Coordinator have first aid training?  

Yes, as do many of your fellow cyclists.  It is a good idea to have rudimentary training yourself (most parents are well trained!) and carry a small First Aid Kit.

• Will the group abandon me if I have a mechanical?  

Most Coordinators include the phrase “no one left behind” in their event posting. Events with larger groups typically include a “sweep” rider to ensure no one is abandoned. Most participants will also help if they can.

• If I decide to drop out of the event, do I have to notify the Coordinator? 

Yes. If you know you are going to be dropping off, alert the Coordinator before the event.  When you do drop off the event notify the Coordinator again, and/or any designated “sweep” rider.  If you cannot reach them, give the message to another rider.  Because of the “no one left behind” policy, it is very disruptive if someone disappears without notice.

• Should I equip my bike with a front/rear light on open road events? 

Lights are always recommended on road rides.  Depending on the size of the group and/or how compact the group is riding, it may be courteous to dim both lights so they do not distract other riders.

• Concerning MTN bike events, what do I need to carry?  

Always read the event posting for suggestions of what to bring.  Typical items are a mini tool kit, spare tube/tire repair kit, small pump, possibly some spare chain links and tool, and in many areas, bear spray.  It is also a good idea to carry a small first aid kit. On warm days, most mountain bikers carry a small backpack with a hydration pack in it, since it is difficult to carry more than one water bottle on a mountain bike and it is a more convenient way to stay hydrated.  A backpack is also handy for storing light clothing layers and the other items described above.  Remember that many mountain bike events are in areas without cell service so someone in the group may wish to carry a satellite communication device such as In Reach.  If you are unsure what to bring, then contact the event Coordinator."

• How much water do I need to bring? 

It depends on the temperature, your personal needs , and the difficulty of the event.  Dehydration can be a serious problem, so always err on the side of caution.  A common recommendation is one litre per hour of exertion. 

For urban events  there are usually places to refill bottles along the way, in which case a single bottle may be sufficient. But if unsure, carry as much water as you will need.  

As with all questions, your event Coordinator is your best source for event-specific information.

• How can I tell if an event is suitable for my abilities?  

The event posting will provide distance, elevation change and often a map.  It should also have the intended speed range, although if there is a lot of climbing speed alone may not be definitive. If you are unsure, a candid discussion with the event Coordinator will be helpful.  For first time members there is also a club director available to help identify events and Coordinators best suited for your fitness, equipment, and interests. Contact via connect@elbowvalleycc.org.

• Can I do a “test event” with the club to see if it’s for me? 

Yes. Our members love having a new person on the events, and you will feel welcome and supported.  Just pick an event you would like to try and contact the Coordinator for a one-time guest registration. (Or if you know a club member on the event, they can register you as their guest.)  You will need to accept a liability waiver for insurance reasons.  If you aren’t sure which event to pick we have a club director available to help identify events and Coordinators best suited for your fitness, equipment, and interests. (link)

• Do you host activities other than cycling events?

Yes. Check the club calendar for things like hikes (both in and outside the city), snowshoeing, virtual rides on stationary bikes, skating, etc.  And of course there are social events, some with presentations of bike touring all over the world.

• Do you have events during the day, evenings and weekends?  

Yes.  The majority of events are mid-day on weekdays and Sundays.  But there are also regular evening events, and events with multiple rides starting at the same time combined with social activity on weekends.  You will likely find events that fit even the most complex schedules.

• Are you a friendly group? 

Absolutely.  We are a very social, non-competitive group of people who thoroughly enjoy each other.  You will feel very welcome and supported on events. Plan to have fun!

• How many people are on an event?  It varies from as few as 2 or 3 to as many as 20.  When you look at the event posting, you can see the number of people registered as well as the maximum that the event leader will allow.

• How fast do you go?  

Expected speeds are posted in the event description.  The exertion level for the event will also depend on the amount of climbing, so be sure to consider the posted elevation change as well.

• What kind of bike do I need? 

Most importantly, you need a reliable bike in good repair with which you are familiar and feel comfortable riding.  The type of bike (Mountain, road, hybrid, etc.) should be suitable for the category of event you join.  For Urban events and shorter road events there is more flexibility as to type. Contact the event Coordinator if you are uncertain.  

The event posting should indicate if electric bikes are welcome.  Some events will designate “pedal assist only.”  Check with the Coordinator if you are unsure. And if you do ride electric please be sure your battery will sustain you to the end of the event.  

• What should I do if my bike breaks down or I have a flat tire? 

Immediately move off the road or path, alert other riders you have a problem, and ask them to get the message to the event Coordinator.  The ride sweep, or other participants, will stop to help you if needed. You should always carry at least one spare tube, along with tools to replace and inflate the tube. A mini-tool kit is also useful.

• Can I bring my kids on an event?  

Yes.  But you will assume responsibility for them, and they will need to be able to keep up with the group.  Please check with the event Coordinator as to suitability for kids.

• Do you have a club house? 

No.  Our socials and other events are held at a variety of fun venues around the city. 

• When do you have races?  

This is not a competitive club. (Although our club president suggests there is often a race for the food at social events.)

• Do you host trips? 

Yes.  There are a number of multi-day events set in places around Canada, the U.S., Mexico, Europe, etc.

• Do you have a variety of events?  

Yes.  The major categories of road, mountain, gravel, fat biking, and urban (city pathways and quiet residential) are all represented.  Within each category, you will find a variety of geography, distance, speed, elevation change, etc.

• How do I learn the hand signals for cycling? 

Read the information here. Or raise the question in the pre-event meeting with the Coordinator. (Some Coordinators ask you to use specific signals during their event.)  There is also general training available that includes hand signals and general cycling skills.