Insurance – for bike, personal accident, legal and 3rd Party claims. This can be sourced through a specialist provider or through the likes of British Cycling and Cycling UK. In some cases household insurance may cover it.

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Tyre pressure and condition – make sure tyres are correctly inflated and not too worn. Check for splits, thorns and flints before every ride. This massively reduces your chances of getting a puncture

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Lights – make sure lights are charged and working. Test battery powered lights the night before a ride by turning them on for a couple of minutes. A battery going dead will seem to work for a minute before fading away.

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Tyre changing/Mechanical – every cyclist should carry (and know how to use) tyre changing gear. At a minimum, you will need at least one spare tube, tyre levers and a hand–pump or CO2 cylinder and dispenser. Best to carry a multi tool too.

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Bottles and Hydration Packs – fill them up. It’s a good idea to carry at least one bottle (with either water or electrolyte) for any ride. For summer rides of 2 hours or longer, you may need 2 bottles.

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Food – bring a banana or something light to eat. You might not need it on the shorter rides but definitely will on longer ones over 2 hours.

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Comfort – choose clothing appropriate for the weather. It’s good to have layers you can remove or add. You warm up once moving but must remember the effect of rain and windchill. Pack a waterproof in a pocket if the slightest chance of rain.

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Weather – wet and/or icy roads and trails are lethal. Wet metal plates and paint on the road are slippery and visibility may be reduced. Strong winds are also treacherous for cycling. Think about staying at home to ride another day.

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Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking –. The club has a Zero tolerance policy to alcohol, drugs or smoking on any ride or event that is linked to SCC.

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Earphones and Bluetooth Speakers – definite NO NO in the bunch. They have no place in a group ride and are dangerous to use in any road cycling (traffic) situation. Save for the trainer.

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In Case of Emergency – Carry an ICE (In Case of Emergency) card or equal, phone and enough cash for a taxi home, if needed.

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Medical conditions and Medical treatments – ensure someone in the group (eg Ride Leader) is aware of any special needs. Have it marked on your ICE/medical emergencies card, and carry any medication likely to be needed.