Help for new riders with the ctc

1 Do I have to be a member ? No, anyone is welcome to come along and try riding with us. 
    We would suggest that you become a member after you've been out about 4 times.
    CTC membership offers many benefits and helps to protect you and other cyclists on the road.
2 Am I too young or too old ? If you are under 18 years of age your parents/guardians must
complete a consent form before your first outing with the club. Please contact our secretary for
further details. You're never too old! We have a member aged 86 who still cycles with us.
3 What sort of bike? The style of your cycle matters little, however it is important
    that it is in a roadworthy condition before you start coming out with us. Please check
    (or have checked) your tyres brakes etc, not only for your own safety and enjoyment,
    but also those riding with you.
4 Will the pace be too fast ? If you come on a 'E' (Easy) ride the pace will be set by the
    leader to the speed of the slowest rider.
5 How far do we go ? 'E' (Easy) rides are about 14 to 16 miles to coffee (11's). After coffee,
    some riders go home and others stay out all day. So if you are used to riding your
    bike say 4 or 5 miles on a regular basis you won't find it too hard. Honestly,
    it really is easy to ride longer distances with a group.
6 What happens if I get a puncture or a problem with my bike? Should you or any other
    rider be unlucky enough to have a puncture or mechanical breakdown everyone waits
    until the problem is resolved. Remember to carry some simple tools that
    fit your bicycle plus spare inner tube, a pump & puncture repair kit.
7 What sort of clothing? Rides go ahead whatever the weather, so remember that a
    warm sunny morning can turn into a downpour or cold winds can blow up.
    Some form of wet weather or windproof clothing should be carried, however remember
    to keep to light weight styles; a lightweight cap or head covering and even gloves would
    be a good idea.
8 Do I have to wear a helmet ? No, it is up to the rider's choice.
What do we expect from you? Always be aware of other road users when you're cycling,
   look behind and signal before you change direction.
   Please do not stop suddenly without warning - other cyclists are close behind you.
   Before coming to a halt call out “slowing” or “stopping” and look behind before pulling
   over to the inside.
    The CTC does not accept any responsibility for your safety on these rides.
    Please ride with consideration for others.

                             HELPFUL HINTS FOR YOUR RIDE
1
  Females of all ages are flocking to cycling, and some of our rides are 50/50
    males and females. Once more it's a good idea to start with 'Easy' rides unless you
    are an experienced lone rider.
2  A map of the route, though not necessary, always makes a day's trip more interesting.
    Ordnance Survey are best, but any clear detailed map will do.
3  Make sure your saddle is at the right height - ask a club member for advice about this
    very important aspect. Make sure your tyres are pumped up to the recommended
    pressures - soft tyres make for very hard work, and increase the chance of getting punctures!.
 Although many riders buy light meals at lunchtime, carrying sandwiches is just as exceptable.
    Remember that a cyclist's fuel is food and drink, so always carry at least £1.00 and perhaps
    a drink in a plastic botte and even a Mars bar or other small snack bar.
6  Be careful how you carry things. Use a bag strapped securely to a rear rack,
    rather than carrying a rucksack on your back, and definitely not a carrier bag hanging
    from the handlebars!