RULES, INFO and FAQ
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These rules were written in 2003. I've done my best to keep the info
up-to-date but we all know what happens to the "best layed plans....".
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1) RULES: A small core group of riders have spent a lot of hours
formulating a set of rules to improve the safety, efficiency and
dynamics of the group. These rules are basically common sense and
courtesy rules so they are offered here for our judgmentally
challenged friends.
EVERYONE IS RESPONSIBLE for reading and understanding all of the rules.
Consistent neglect of the rules will result in permanent removal
from the invitation list.
I know the rules are very long and time consuming to read but I've
spent many hours writing, organizing and editing it with the core
group and if you don't read it, you'll hurt our feelings.
2) I really want to lessen the amount of work I have to do this season so
I'm asking people to use a little common sense and courtesy before
asking questions. Please avoid questions that can be answered by the
website (see info below), the evite, or this email.
3) WEBSITE: The new website (please bookmark) is now:
http://www.geocities.com/jisozaki
This new URL simplifies the update process for me. You will be
automatically forwarded to the new site if you use the old rockjock URL.
I am working to get all the info on the website updated to include
all the necessary ride info for all trails. It is currently,
up-to-date for at approx 90% of the rides. The website includes
info for trail descriptions, driving directions to the trailhead, etc.
Please reference this site if info is not contained in the invitation.
I do not plan to include driving directions and trail routes in the
invites any longer.
Please let me know of any broken links, mis-information
or any other problems.
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RULES, INFO and FAQ
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1) RULES:
a) Everyone is required to read and agree to the attached
rules to remain on the invitation list.
b) Riders must make sure that their guests have also read
and understand the rules.
c) these rules can also be found at:
www.geocities.com/jisozaki/
2) EMERGENCY LIST
a) Emergency list is mandatory and will be distributed to everyone
b) please carry copy of emergency list on rides
c) send updates to emergency contact info to jisozaki@yahoo.com
within 2 weeks of change.
3) SAFETY: All Riders are responsible for the safety and
well-being of the group. Including:
a) Ride responsibly to prevent accidents.
b) Allow enough room to avoid crashing into the rider ahead
if he should stop, dab or fall.
c) Inspect and maintain equipment to eliminate accidents and
trailside repairs caused by neglected equipment.
d) Carry adequate supplies (ie water, food, clothing,
inner-tube, charged batteries for radios, lights, etc.)
4) RIDE RULES and ETIQUETTE
a) USE COMMON SENSE AND RIDE SAFELY
b) BE ON TIME!
- arrive early enough to ride at the designated start time.
- appropriate adjustments to arrival time for equipment
(ie fixing flats, filling camel-back, lubing chains,
installing lights, etc)
c) allow faster and more experienced riders to go first. This
is especially appropriate on single track and new trails.
d) Get out of the way if you miss a section or get off your
bike, so riders behind can get around you.
e) Don't pass on switchbacks! Alert riders when attempting
to pass
f) help other riders with equipment or safety problems.
g) NIGHT RIDES:
- you must have a minimum of 5 watts of light. 10 Watts is
highly recommended.
- your batteries should last a minimum of 60 minutes or you
should have an emergency back-up flashlight.
- Turn off lights and regroup at least 50 yards from the exit
- No talking while exiting
- If stopped by rangers, our excuse will be someone broke a
chain. We will determine location and victim at the turn-around
point but I'll (Jeff) volunteer as the default victim and
we'll use the turn around point as the default location.
5) REGROUPING AND GETTING LOST: The following rules are implemented
to maintain ride continuity, avoid wasting time or losing a rider.
a) USE COMMON SENSE!!!
b) Do your best to avoid getting separated from the group. if you
become lost, return to where you last saw the group and wait,
someone will back-track to find you.
c) On unfamiliar trails or with new riders, do your best to insure
riders behind you are following the correct forks and the group.
d) Lead riders should stop to regather frequently enough to
prevent the group from splintering.
e) If you become separated from the group:
- use radio to contact/find the group.
- go back to location where you last saw the group
- if you're not sure, get off your bike and WAIT!
f) Make sure you let the group know if you plan to turn around
early, or splinter from the group.
6) GMRS RADIOS are mandatory
a) unless otherwise stated, use Channel = 20 privacy code = 20
b) turn on radios in car a few miles before arriving at
meeting location, especially if running late. This will
help us contact you and also help us learn the range
and limitations of the radios we become more familiar
c) Minimum std: GMRS: 14 Ch FRS + 8 Ch GMRS
- must be Motorola Compatible
d) Radios need to be turned on during the ride to allow
broadcast and monitoring of trail directions, emergencies,
ranger radar, etc.
e) Batteries should have enough charge for a minimum of 3-4
hrs operation.
f) No X-rated language
g) Assume rangers are monitoring so be careful what you say.
7) INVITATIONS:
a) Some rides may be closed to riders that have not displayed a
minimum level of physical or technical competence.
b) Please make sure to either:
- save email invitation
- bookmark Evite invitation
- print the evite ride details
- set up an Evite account - this allows you to view
invitations without the original email invitation.
You can also link "my evites" thru your "my yahoo"
home page.
c) invitations will no longer have driving directions to
the trail head and trail routes unless not available
on the www.geocities.com/jisozaki
Please go here for detailed ride info.
8) GUESTS: Hosts are 100% responsible for their guests. Including
a) guest's emergency contact info
b) guest has proper working equipment (ie helmet, innertube, etc)
c) Guests ARE REQUIRED to carry radios! If you do not have an
extra radio, please send a message to the group to insure that
someone can bring an extra unit.
d) guest is on time
e) guest understands and follows all group and park policies
f) Hosts may be asked to stay with their guest if their guest
cannot keep up physically or technically or if the guest
decides to turn around or quit.
g) Hosts should not invite guests for trails or rides they
are not familiar with.
h) It is strongly suggested that you have direct riding
experience with your guest before inviting them.
i) Guests may NOT invite guests
j) Hosts may be dropped from the group invitation list if guests
consistently fail to meet a minimum level of ability,
responsibility or courtesy.
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IMBA RULES of the trail (taken direct from IMBA site)
1. Ride On Open Trails Only - Respect trail and road closures
(ask if uncertain); avoid trespassing on private land; obtain
permits or other authorization as may be required. Federal and
state Wilderness areas are closed to cycling. The way you ride
will influence trail management decisions and policies.
2. Leave No Trace. - Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you.
Recognize different types of soils and trail construction;
practice low-impact cycling. Wet and muddy trails are more
vulnerable to damage. When the trailbed is soft, consider
other riding options. This also means staying on existing
trails and not creating new ones. Don't cut switchbacks.
Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.
3. Control Your Bicycle! - Inattention for even a second can cause
problems. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations.
4. Always Yield Trail. - Let your fellow trail users know you're
coming. A friendly greeting or bell is considerate and works
well; don't startle others. Show your respect when passing by
slowing to a walking pace or even stopping. Anticipate other
trail users around corners or in blind spots. Yielding means
slow down, establish communication, be prepared to stop if
necessary and pass safely.
5. Never Scare Animals - animals are startled by an unannounced
approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise. This can be
dangerous for you, others, and the animals. Give animals extra
room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses use special
care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if
uncertain). Running cattle and disturbing wildlife is a
serious offense. Leave gates as you found them, or as marked.
6. Plan Ahead. - Know your equipment, your ability, and the area i
which you are riding -- and prepare accordingly. Be self-sufficient
at all times, keep your equipment in good repair, and carry
necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions.
A well-executed trip is a satisfaction to you and not a burden to
others. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.