Development Squad (DS)

Background

The Squad formally operates in the first half of the year to provide riders with the fitness, skills and confidence to ride safely in a large bunch and prepare for Taupo, if that is your goal.

Format

• This is part of the regular weekly ride leaving at the same time (8am Sunday) as the main OTB's group, on the corner of Box Hill & Station Road Khandallah (assemble on the forecourt of Civic Video/Brandon Motors)
• There is no cancellation service and rides take place in most conditions, it is up to individuals to make the call on the weather.  However, riding is not  recommended when  raining or very windy.
• Rides will follow much the same course as advertised for the main ride schedule however, the grouping, pace and distance will be tailored to a more social/non-competitive level.
• This is targeted at adults or teens accompanied by a parent
• The objective is to start and finish with the main bunch
• Rides will generally be at least 40-50km and average about 24-28Km/hr, 
• Generally the group will stay together, however options exist to turn back at various points in the ride.
• The plan is to increase the distance and pace during the first part of the year as appropriate. It is expected that over time riders will move up to ride with the main bunch when they feel confident/ready.
• The bunch will be lead by experienced riders and aims to give instruction in safe group riding and to set training goals for improvement and enjoyment

New to road cycling and bunch riding?

If you are a new rider, the only thing we require of you is that you read and agree to abide by the group's Etiquette and Safe Riding Tips 

A few things you should be aware of and organise before coming out on a Sunday:

1. It is strongly recommended you use a road bike (set-up for you) in good condition i.e. road worthy, and obviously have a good fitting helmet. If in doubt get your gear/wheels checked out at your local bike shop
2. Always carry a cell phone and tell someone where you intend to go in case you need to be collected in the event of equipment failure
   
3. You will need to carry a spare tube, tire levers and pump, plus at least one water bottle, (two bottles are recommended) a few snack bars or energy gels and money. 
   
4. Wear/carry clothes for the prevailing weather conditions including cycling gloves, a high visibility top and don't forget sun cream and sunglasses.
   
5. The rides will incorporate various rest stops to regroup/recover and turn back options. Find out about the ride distance and be prepared to turn back early if your getting tired.  The chance of an accident increases if you over do it and get tired.
6. Know your bike and how to ride it, we strongly suggest you look at attending the bike awareness and skills courses available, see below
7. NO iPods or similar in a bunch ride, these compromise the safety of the bunch by reducing a riders ability to hear the safety calls, approaching cyclists/traffic and ability to be fully aware of your surroundings.
   

Want to learn more?

Penny Farthing Cycles runs Bike Handling and Awareness Skills and a Bike Maintenance course. If you are interested, follow the links to the course information flyers and contact training@onslowtarbabies.org.nz or Penny's direct and tell them you are a Tarbaby.

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