CODE OF CONDUCT

1. PURPOSE

A Guide to Cycling Etiquette and Club Culture to Make for a Safe and Fun Experience for all Riders.

Introduction

The Code of Conduct which follows has been created by the BNBA executive with a number of goals in mind:

• To improve club spirit
• To enhance the safety of our members
• To define good cycling etiquette
• To put into print the many “unwritten rules” that the Club has always been guided by, thereby defining a clear set of expectations regarding club members’ behaviour so that everyone has a common point of reference when clarification is needed.
• To communicate the collective wisdom of group cycling for BNBA members that has evolved but has never been readily available to Club members; and
• To make our rides more enjoyable.

It is hoped that having this document in place will provide our membership with a common idea of the numerous and varied factors that, when combined, create pleasurable group rides.

Questions or comments should be directed to info@bikesandbeersadventures.com or the club Safety and Education Coordinator.

2. GOVERNANCE

The code shall be known as BNBA Code of Conduct. The Code shall govern the conduct of all persons associated with the BNBA Club. In particular, it shall apply to:

• Persons acting for and on behalf of BNBA.
• Persons participating in BNBA organized events.

3. KEY PRINCIPLES

• BNBA wishes to operate in an environment where people show respect for others, their property and the environment.  Respect is defined as consideration for another person's physical, emotional well-being and possessions and to ensure no damage or deprivation is caused to either. 
   
• BNBA wishes to operate in an environment that is free from harassment.  Harassment is defined as any action directed at an individual or group that creates a hostile, intimidatory or offensive environment. 
   
• BNBA wishes to operate in a non-discriminatory environment. Respect the right, dignity and worth of every human being within the context of the activity; treat everyone equally regardless of gender, ethnic origin or religion.   

4. KEY ELEMENTS

All persons who are bound by this code shall:

• Act in a manner which is compatible with the interests of BNBA.
• Accord people involved in cycling with the appropriate courtesy, respect and regard for their rights and obligations.
• Treat people's property with respect and due consideration of its value.

5. CLUB GUIDELINES

• Make sure your bike is in good condition.
• Always wear an appropriate bicycle helmet for the type of riding you do. NO HELMET = NO RIDE.
• Dogs are not permitted on club rides(except Whitney's :-)
• Be prepared. Bring enough water, food, tools and adequate clothing.

Club rides longer than one hour requires you to think ahead. Water and/or sports drinks are a must for any ride, long or short. Bring suitable clothing for the trail location and weather forecast. Be responsible for yourself.

Maintain control.

• Ride within your abilities. Losing control of your bike significantly increases your risk of injury, the risk of injuring others and your impact on the environment.

Ride to the conditions.

• Your ability to control your bike will change in different trail and weather conditions.  Ride within the conditions to protect yourself, others and the environment. .

Pass with care and give plenty of warning.

• Always announce your intention to pass another rider. Leave the maximum amount of room to ensure you will be able to pass safely.  A friendly greeting is considerate and effective; don't startle other trail users.  Show respect when passing by slowing to reasonable pace or even stopping.  Anticipate other trail users around corners or in blind spots.  Yielding means slow down, establish communication, be prepared to stop if necessary and then pass safely.  Unless you are participating in a registered race, passing someone quickly and at close range dangerous, and inconsiderate to other trail users.

Be courteous and respect other trail users.

• Being polite and courteous to others using the trail, especially non-cyclists, will improve the image and reputation of all mountain bikers. 
• Any concerns with disruptive conduct or riding etiquette that have not been resolved should be discussed with your ride coordinator or any of the Club executive. Serious violations may result in expulsion from the Club.

Minimum impact code.

• Observe the minimum impact code; take only photographs and leave only tire prints.  Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you.  Recognize different types of soils and trail construction; practice low-impact cycling.  Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage.  When the trail bed is soft, consider other riding options.  Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in. 

Ride on open trails only.

• Some trails are closed permanently and seasonally for valid reasons. Respect the wishes of trail builders and trail associations who maintain the trails

Always stay on the trail.

• For your safety and for the trails.  Do not widen the trails by creating a new line.  This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones without the appropriate approval.  Don't cut switchbacks, stay on the trail.

Avoid sensitive areas.

• Avoid riding on vegetation and ecologically or culturally sensitive surfaces.  Take extra care in damp and wet conditions.  Respect the environment. .

Support trail maintenance.

• No trail maintenance = No trails = No riding.

For insurance purposes and your safety, NO HELMET = NO RIDE. THERE WILL BE NO EXCEPTIONS.

Identification – including phone number, should be carried on the bicycle at all times.

Transgressions of this Code of this Conduct will result in disciplinary measures to be decided upon by the Board of Directors. In extreme cases, this could lead to expulsion from the club and loss of all privileges associated with membership of the club

Ride Organization & Support

Ride captain – must be appointed or elected for each group ride. They will be responsible for ensuring that good order and safety are maintained. This could mean stopping for stragglers or accidents or ensuring someone goes back to assist with a mechanical breakdown. Every Club member must submit to the Ride Captain’s direction & decision during the ride.

Groupings – it is preferable that cyclists of equal ability and fitness ride together. No more than 10 to 15 is a manageable group for a Club Ride – groups may be divided when necessary into smaller groups. It is important to choose a group where one is comfortable and within one’s capability.

• If a rider rides with a slower group (e.g. seeking an easier ride), that rider must not attempt to set the pace of that group but leave it to that group’s regular riders to determine the pace.
• Most Club rides are geared towards social riding and beginners. These groups should stay together and collect stragglers by stopping or slowing from time to time. Nominate a “sweep” who will ride at the back to ensure no one is “dropped” on the route.
• Ensure that people who drop off or have a mechanical issue are not “abandoned.” Circular or destination routes obviously require care to be taken that people are not simply left – particularly where it may be unsafe for an individual.
• Use the “buddy” system – every rider should, at the start of a ride, ask another rider to be his “buddy” for that ride. Each rider should then ensure that his buddy is not left behind at any stage.

Club Spirit

BNBA is a voluntary club, run by volunteers, for volunteers. Everyone, whether on a ride or at an event is expected to participate and be an active Club member.

Everyone is encouraged to volunteer for major Club events. Pitch in to help out whenever possible. Cooperate with fellow riders so that fun and work are equally shared.

Promote Club spirit by riding together whenever possible. When passing fellow members and other cyclists, greet them in a polite and friendly manner.

Attend social functions and other club events. Particular care should be taken to make any visitors feel welcome. At the start of the ride, the Ride Captain should welcome them and ensure that they will be looked after.

Any conduct that is disruptive or unlawful, or that may bring the Club into disrepute or could be an embarrassment, is prohibited. Club members are at all times expected to treat other Club members, other cyclists, and other road/trail users with the utmost respect.

If you have questions about BNBA’s Code of Conduct, please email info@bikesandbeersadventures.com or contact Andy Meaning - the club Safety and Education Coordinator