It’s been a long cold winter, but warmer weather has been making its way into Town, just in time for Week 1 of our May Ride Series. Meet us today at 9am at Sawmill Road entrance to the Clarence Hollow Farmers’ Market. Ride starts at 9:30. We will be riding every Saturday in May, so we hope to see a lot of you this month.

We know for many of you it will be your first time on a bike this year and that’s okay. We started this group ride series to get people moving and into riding shape for the summer.

That said, this is not a full-blown slow roll. This will be a smaller, unsupported group ride following vehicle and traffic laws. Our goal is to keep everyone together at an easy-going 8-10 mile pace that should return us to our start sometime around 10:30am. We do have an initial climb from our location – so expect that we may do a mass-up if necessary to keep everyone together – but the rest of the ride will be gently rolling and we will have more descents than anything else.

Here’s a look at our 9.57 mile route:

Here are a few tips to help ensure you have a fun and safe ride:

ABC Check:

• AIR. Pinch your tires to check for firmness before you ride
• BRAKES. Make sure they work and are not rubbing the tire
• CRANK/CHAIN. Any problems with your gears or chain? Check it over – Check your entire bike over for anything loose or damaged. There is a repair station at the Farmers’ market with most of the tools you might need for simple repairs.

Obey the Rules of the Road:

• #1 RULE – Be aware of your surroundings!
• Obey traffic signals, stop signs and NYS law
• Ride in a straight line
• Ride to the right on the side with traffic as seems most reasonably safe
• Ride single file or no more than two abreast
• Announce your pass “On your LEFT!” when overtaking slower riders
• Point out to help those behind you avoid potholes, storm drain etc…
• Use hand signals for turning, stopping and slowing
• Be courteous
• Anticipate traffic patterns
• Stay a car doors length away from parked cars

Helmets and attire:

• Always wear a properly fitting helmet
• Don’t wear loose clothing; it can get caught in the chain etc…
• Wear Reflective clothing
• Consider comfortable bike attire, shoes, eyewear and gloves