Safety tips for mass participation rides

Are you signed up to a big ride soon? Whether it’s the Ipswich Scenic 100, the Mater Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle for Cancer, MS QLD Brissie to the Bay or another event – there are a few tips for safe riding in such a large bunch. Many elements will crossover with knowledge from riding in a group, but some basic skills have greater importance, and some elements are differnt to a group ride – like having course marshals!

Be predictable

In a mass participation ride, being predictable is one of the most important things you can do for your own safety and the safety of others. Avoid any sudden or erratic movements – don’t brake hard or swerve without warning. Signal clearly with hand gestures and verbal cues when turning, stopping, or changing position. Hold a steady line and be mindful of the riders around you, especially in bunches or at aid stations where things can get congested. Be aware that others will be doing this too, so listen for any calls coming from riders ahead, so you can plan your response and pass the message to those behind.

Obey all event marshals and event officials

Think of marshals and officials as your safety net for the day. Whether they’re managing intersections, guiding the route, or responding to incidents, they’re there to help things run smoothly and safely. Always follow their directions, even if they differ from road signage or your GPS. Trust that they have up-to-date information on hazards, detours, or timing changes, and are looking out for every participant’s wellbeing. Some rides move from closed roads to open roads after the opening sections, so be mindful of following all standard road safety directions, or those from marshals, police or event officials. And remember, many of these people are volunteers – so be nice!

Service your bike before the event

Your bike needs to be as ready as you are. Schedule a pre-event check-up with a qualified bike mechanic well in advance, especially if you’ve had your bike in storage or haven’t ridden it much. Prioritise the basics: brakes, gears, tyres, drivetrain, and steering. A mechanical issue mid-ride can ruin your day – or worse, cause a crash. Doing this a week or more ahead allows time for parts to be ordered or repairs to be completed without last-minute stress.

Ride within your skill level

It’s great to have goals, but safety comes first. If you aren’t sure about completing any route you have signed up for, remember to do some training rides in preparation! Slowly build your endurance not just by doing longer rides on the weekend, but doing a couple more rides, even short ones, in the week as well. On the day, pace yourself and ride in a way that you can always stay in control. If you’re descending, cornering, or riding in a group, make decisions based on what you know you can handle confidently – not what others around you are doing.

Use daytime running lights

Even if you’re riding during daylight hours, front and rear bike lights can make a big difference in how soon others—drivers, other riders, even pedestrians—see you. On mixed-traffic routes or shared paths, this added visibility can prevent close calls. Run them on a steady or flashing mode depending on your preference, and make it part of your pre-ride checklist to ensure they’re charged and mounted securely. This is best practice on all rides – not just on event day.

BQ Members can save on lights from knog and See.Sense – see all our Member Rewards.

Look ahead, not down

Staring at your front wheel won’t help you avoid the rider who slows suddenly or the pothole up ahead. Keep your head up and eyes scanning well in front of you to read the terrain, traffic, and rider behaviour. This also gives you more time to make safe, confident decisions, and reduces the impact of your actions on those around you. The more you anticipate, the smoother and safer your ride will be.

Be a courteous rider

A friendly and respectful attitude goes a long way in mass rides. Use clear voice signals like “passing on your right,” “slowing,” or “stopping,” and always give others enough room. Alert others to hazards like potholes, debris, or parked cars by pointing or calling out.

If you stop to have a snack or check your tyres or wait for a friend, please get yourself and your bike all the way off the road surface. The bike riders behind you in the event deserve all the available space on the road, so please don’t narrow the course in any way.

Respect different riding speeds, skill levels, and bikes – whether someone’s on a high-end road bike or a borrowed hybrid, we’re all there for a shared experience. Good vibes make great rides.

Will your ride be covered? Bicycle Queensland membership includes public liability and personal accident insurance, and supports BQ’s advocacy – you can find out more here.