Learn the basics of safe, smart road bicycling and have the opportunity to advance your riding skills through an organized progression of experiences over the summer of 2014:
Part 1- May 17, 24, and June 7, 14, 2014*
Part 2- June 28, and July 5, 12, 19, 2014
Part 3- July 26 and August 2, 9, 16, 2014
The program will combine instruction, exercises to practice riding skills, and group rides. On completion of the 3 program Parts, you can expect to ride safely and enjoyably on your own and on many group rides offered by the Delaware Valley Bicycle Club (see Ride Calendar), including the annual Brandywine Tour on September 1, 2014.
Sign Up: Send email to Instructor@dvbc.org or call Woody at 610-566-2736 or Nancy at 610-247-4500 for further information. Placements are limited to 22, so sign up today.
Instructors: The Intro to Road Cycling program is directed by Woody Kotch and Drew Knox, who are both expert riders and LAB-certified** instructors. Other very experienced DVBC ride leaders will also serve as instructors.
Location: All sessions for the Part I program start at Ridley Creek State Park. Contact Instructor@dvbc.org for directions and exact meeting location within the Park.
Hours: Sessions in Part 1 will generally run from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m, Some sessions may run longer, as the group’s ability to ride greater distances increases.
Cost: First session on May 17 is FREE. $30 for the Intro to Cycling program is payable on or before the second session on May 24. Fee covers DVBC club membership and insurance costs. For current DVBC members, the program cost is $10.
Equipment: Participants must provide their own bicycle, helmet, and water bottle(s). Helmets are required. Recommended: rearview mirror (head or bike-mounted) and lights (daytime tail light and head light).
Qualifications: The program is open to adults age 18 and over. Participants should be in good health and have some elementary riding experience (e.g., childhood riding, mountain biking, trail riding, spinning class, etc.). More experienced riders who are looking to brush up on safe road riding/traffic skills are also welcome. All participants will need to complete DVBC’s RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY
In the 4-session Part 1 Program you will learn how to:
- Prepare your bicycle for safe road riding
- Apply current rules/laws of the road
- Use correct hand signals
- Practice road-sharing etiquette
- Safely navigate intersections
- Ride safely with other bicyclists (basics; pace lining will not be covered
- Maintain balance while taking curves in the road
- Start and apply brakes
- Stand while riding (when and how)
- Safely cross railroad tracks
- Build stamina for climbing hills
- Maintain hydration and energy while cycling
* Rain date for any session in Part 1 is June 21
** League of American Bicyclists