FREQUENTLY
ASKED
QUESTIONS
Yes, we ask that you register and sign a waiver. Please complete your registration before the event to help streamline the process and avoid delays.
We ask that participants be at an intermediate riding level or above. For safety reasons, riding at slow speeds in a group of 100+ cyclists can be hazardous if you're not comfortable navigating in a group setting.
Intermediate Level Criteria for Group Riding
1. Safety:
Obey Traffic Laws: Follow all traffic laws and regulations.
Ride No More Than Two Abreast: On narrow or busy roads, ride in single file.
Use Front and Rear Lights: Ensure your bike is equipped with bright front and rear lights, especially when riding in low-light conditions.
Wear a Helmet: Always wear a helmet when riding (we will ask you not ride if you don't bring/wear a cycling helmet).
Carry a Repair Kit: Be prepared for flats or other mechanical issues by carrying a repair kit.
Communicate Hazards: Alert the group to any hazards you see, such as potholes, debris, or cars.
Stay Visible: Wear bright clothing and use reflective tape to increase your visibility.
2. Pace and Effort:
Maintain a Consistent Pace: Avoid sudden surges or braking, and try to keep a steady speed within the group's comfort zone.
Don't Surge Off the Front: Avoid sudden accelerations or braking, as this can disrupt the flow of the group.
Stay off the brakes: Try to avoid braking unless absolutely necessary, and communicate any braking intentions clearly.
3. Communication and Etiquette:
Communicate Clearly: Use hand signals and verbal cues to alert others to hazards, turns, or changes in speed.
Announce Hazards: Point out potholes, debris, or other road hazards to riders behind you.
Ride Smoothly: Avoid jerky movements or sudden changes in direction, as this can make other riders nervous.
Stay Attentive: Keep your head up and eyes scanning the road ahead, rather than fixating on the wheel in front.
Don't Half-Wheel: Avoid riding directly behind someone's wheel, as this can be dangerous and disrupt the flow of the group.
Keep Hands on the Brakes: Ensure you have easy access to your brakes in case of an emergency.
Ride Predictably: Make your movements smooth and predictable, so other riders can anticipate your actions.
4. Group Dynamics:
Be On Time and Prepared: Arrive at the starting point on time and ensure your bike is in good working order.
Act in the Group's Best Interest: Prioritize the safety and enjoyment of the group over your own personal goals.
Respect the Group's Pace: Don't push the pace beyond what the group is comfortable with.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to traffic, road conditions, and other riders in the group.
Follow the Leader: Pay attention to the leader's signals and instructions, and follow their lead.
Be Prepared to Help: If you see someone struggling, offer assistance or encouragement.
A double paceline is where riders form two rows side-by-side, which can enhance safety in group rides by reducing the length of the group and making it more visible to traffic. We would like all riders to form a double paceline.
No, we do not provide bike rentals or loans—you will need to bring your own bike. If you don’t have one but would like to join the ride, you can rent from local shops such as Incycle, Around the Cycle, or Pasadena Cyclery.
The Ride of Silence honors those who have been injured or lost their lives while cycling. For safety and timing reasons, we ask that participants do not walk the event.
No, we kindly ask that children do not participate in the ride. Since we’ll be traveling as a large group on city streets, it poses a safety risk for both them and other riders.
We recommend getting some riding practice before the event to build stamina, as there is a long, steep climb out of the Rose Bowl on Rosemont. Sweep volunteers* will be available to ensure no one is left behind.
*If there is a significant gap between you and the main group of cyclists, our volunteers have the right to ask you to return to your vehicle or the start/finish area. Our number one goal is safety.
You should know how to make basic repairs and change a tire or tube on your bike. If you're unable to do so, you'll need to arrange for a friend to pick you up or use Uber/Lyft.
Please note that sweep volunteers will not be able to stop and assist.
No. The entire ride is in total silence.
No, this is a slow-paced ride. We ask all riders to respect the organizers, volunteers, ride marshals, and fellow cyclists—and to leave their egos at home.