Bicycling Guidelines

Please review these guidelines if you are new to COP rides. By choosing the correct pace and arriving prepared, you will help ensure our rides are as safe and fun as possible for everyone.

Pace classes are intended to give a rough idea of the common "riding" speed of the group, rather than the average speed. Completing a century ride (100) miles in 5 hours indicates a mathematical average of 20 mph, but the common riding speed to required to complete this ride in 5 hours can easily be in the mid-20s. Variables such as wind, hills and time off the bike can greatly detract from an average, as it is a time-based figure. The speeds listed below refer to common "riding" speeds.

• A 19-23 MPH: our fastest pace. Licensed racers frequently attend these rides, which might be listed as A+ rides in this schedule. Be prepared to maintain this pace over 30-50 miles on a weeknight ride, and 60-100 on a weekends. Stops typically are few and short. Average speeds can be over 20 mph.

• B 16-19 MPH: a fast recreational clip. The ride distances will be somewhat lower than the "A" group, and the stops can be longer and more frequent. Opportunities for regrouping will be more frequent.

• C 13-16 MPH: an enthusiastic pace. Many of our longer-distance riders ride in this pace range. The mood will be less competitive and more social. Groups will tend to stay together more, but the riding will still be consistent. The routes often avoid the hilliest options.

• D 10-13 MPH: a very social pace. Riders can be experienced, or fairly new, but are usually familiar with the basics of cycling on the open road and in groups. Distances are modest, and often a meal stop or sight-seeing is involved.

• NR: no designated speed. These rides are specifically oriented around introducing new riders to the sport. The pace will be dictated by those who attend, and often these rides are intended as an introduction to cycling. NR rides can use bike paths or roadways.

• DOWR: Depending On Weather and Riders, usually for winter rides. This note in any ride listing indicates an "open" condition, and will usually be included with a pace class. The leader may choose to leave the pace, distance and destination to be decided by the group, so maps may not be included for these impromptu rides.