General Ride Information

New Members – If you are new to this group and want to join up or just go on a ride to try us out, please use the Contact Form. You will be placed on our group e-mail list.
Ride Leaders – Volunteer ride leaders are needed to be posted on the advance ride schedule.  This will help make the cycling group sustainable and spread out the management work load.  If everyone leads just one ride, there are enough group members to cover almost two years.  Experienced ride leaders are available to help new ride leaders and a how to lead package will be circulated to those that sign-up.  It is recognized that health or other challenges may prevent some members from leading rides.
Sign-In and Emergency Contact Number – Ride participants should be checked in by the ride leader on the morning of the ride with their emergency contact number to keep track of ride numbers. A list of past ride participants has been compiled and this confidential information can be circulated to ride leaders to be taken on their ride or a list can be composed on ride day.
No Ride Leader? – If a ride leader cannot attend a ride they should arrange for an alternative leader to take their place. If the ride leader does not show up due to a last minute conflict or if there is no ride leader on a scheduled ride, the ride can still take place, but leaders and sweeps (they stay at the back to make sure everyone is accounted for and is OK) will need to be selected at the start of the ride.
Cancellation and Weather: Weather Check. The weather should be checked before each ride.  Inclement weather such as rain, high winds, a heat alert or cold temperatures may result in individuals choosing not to ride. There will not be any official cancellation notices from ride leaders.  Each individual will decide to go on a ride or if a ride is not for them based on their individual judgement relative to their comfort and abilities.
Break/Lunch Locations – Break/lunch locations are determined by the ride leader and reservations may be required for groups larger that 6. This can be done in advance or before the start of the ride by the ride leader or others.
Car Pool – Use the e-mail lists or contact the group leader if you need to car pool. This service is limited but we will do the best we can.
Safety – Individuals are responsible for their own safety.  Be sure your bike is in good operating condition and it is mandatory to wear an approved bicycle helmet.  Safety reminders and tips are given below under Operating Procedures with highlights reviewed at the start of each ride along with any known route caution areas. Discretion and judgement is required as well as a knowledge of the rules of the road and trails.  Note the safe cycling course link below for those who want to be more informed and skilled at riding safely. Please contact us for any questions or more information about cycling safety.
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                    Important: Probus Cycling Group Operating Procedures

Safe Cycling Course - This link takes you to a description of this on-bike course. It is usually provided annually, planned for two hours and includes a short road ride. An in-class session is also a possible component. Course details, location, date and time will be communicated to the membership if confirmed.

Video - You may be interested in the bike promotional video link below produced by Venture Niagara which focuses on
Visiting Niagara by Bike with a theme that Niagara is for Cyclists.