Where a group sits on the road
A group of cyclists takes up more space than one rider. How that space is used affects the people in the group, the drivers behind and anyone walking or riding in the other direction. Good positioning is about being visible, predictable and considerate, and about following the rules where you ride.
Road laws differ widely. In some places riding two abreast is allowed, in some it is allowed only under certain conditions, and in others it is not permitted at all. This article describes common principles only. Check your local laws, and follow the instructions of any ride leader.
Single file
Good road positioning for a single rider carries over to a group, with the added need to think about those behind you.
Riding in a single line is the simplest formation. Each rider follows the one ahead, and the group takes up the least width. It is often the safest and most considerate choice when:
- The road is narrow, winding or has poor visibility.
- Traffic is heavy or fast.
- The road has a lot of parked cars or hazards on the edge.
- Local rules require it.
In single file, keep a comfortable gap, stay out of the very edge of the road where debris collects, and hold a steady line. Sudden moves by one rider are felt by everyone behind, which is why predictable riding around traffic is a habit worth building from the start.
Two abreast
Riding side by side can make a group shorter and easier to pass, because a long single line takes longer for a vehicle to overtake. It also lets people chat. Some groups ride two abreast where the law allows and conditions are suitable, such as quiet roads with good sight lines.
If your group does this, a few principles help:
- Keep the pair tight and neat, with bikes roughly level and a manageable gap between the two riders.
- Watch the road ahead and behind. The outside rider is closer to traffic and should pay attention to it.
- Stay aware that law, road width and traffic mean two abreast is not always appropriate.
- Do not stay two abreast out of habit when the road changes.
The rule, in short: use the formation that suits the road, not the one you prefer.
Singling out
Groups ride two abreast only until the situation changes, and a smooth change is a skill. When a call such as “car back” or “single out” goes up, the outside riders move in line one by one, with the rider at the back of each pair easing off slightly so the other can slot in. Sudden gaps and abrupt moves are what cause trouble. If you are unsure, ease off gently, hold your line and let the rider in front of you move first. Singling out is a habit that is much easier when everyone expects it.
Letting traffic pass
A group that holds up traffic for long is more likely to meet frustration and risk. A considerate group helps vehicles pass when it is safe to do so.
- On a narrow road, shift into single file and, where it is safe, ease toward the side so that drivers can see a clear space.
- At a convenient place such as a wide section or a lay-by, consider stopping briefly to let a queue clear if the group is large.
- Do not wave drivers past unless you are sure it is safe and permitted. A driver has to make their own decision, and a wave can be misread.
- Stay calm if a driver is impatient. Do not react in anger, and report dangerous driving through the proper local channels rather than confronting anyone.
Keeping the group compact, rather than strung out across a long stretch, also makes passing easier. Think of the group as one moving object that the driver has to pass in a single manoeuvre.
Junctions and traffic lights
Junctions are the places where groups most often split and where misunderstandings cause problems. A group is not a procession and has no special right of way. Follow signals and signs, and treat each rider as responsible for their own safety. Do not follow the rider ahead through a light that has changed just because the front of the group went through. If you are separated, stop, and the group can regroup afterwards. This links closely to junction etiquette in general, as the group is simply a larger version of the same situation.
Regrouping safely
Groups naturally stretch out on hills, in wind and after stops. Regrouping lets the slower riders catch up without being left behind. Good regrouping includes:
- A planned stopping place off the road where possible, such as a lay-by, car park or wide verge, not on a blind bend or in a junction.
- A wait at the top of a climb or at a turn, so that nobody takes a wrong turn.
- A count of riders before moving off, so that no one is missing.
- A short rest, a drink and a check on each other. If someone has had a mechanical problem, the group should stop and help in a safe place.
When you move off after a stop, check traffic carefully, restart gently and rejoin the formation in an orderly way. Avoid sprinting to catch up, which creates sudden gaps and rushed decisions.
Your own position within the group
If you are new, it helps to ride near the back at first, where you can watch how others handle the road. The rider at the very back sometimes has an important role in warning of vehicles approaching from behind, so it is useful to know what is expected. Ask the ride leader where you should ride and what the group wants from you.
Keep your hands near the brakes, look past the rider ahead as well as at them, and give yourself space. If you feel uncomfortable, say so. A good group will adjust, and your safety matters more than keeping pace. The same applies when you are ill-prepared for a hill or a headwind: drop back and ask for the group to regroup rather than pushing yourself into a risky situation.
Small habits that make a big difference
- Stay relaxed. Tense riders wobble.
- Ride a straight line and avoid sudden swerves.
- Pass on information about hazards.
- Keep your gap steady rather than changing it all the time.
- Let people know before you stop or turn.
These skills are general and are not a substitute for local rules or advice from an experienced leader. Check the law where you ride and be ready to adapt to conditions.