Who Wants to be Sweep?

The above question is often asked by Ride Leaders during the pre-ride briefing and often results in absolute silence until someone reluctantly steps forward, but it should not be that way.

Riders often think the Sweep is just the slowest rider but in fact this should not be the case. The Sweep is a very important member of the lead team and contributes greatly to the safety of the group.  The Ride Leader has a great deal to focus on during a ride, including navigation, hazard identification and average ride pace. Whilst they will do a visual check on the group as often as possible, they cannot see everything. This is where the Sweep becomes invaluable. So all good Sweeps should:

A) monitor the group in front to ensure all riders are coping.

B) monitor the group to ensure riders are using their bikes correctly. Newer riders may not use their gears properly and so may struggle on rises and fall behind. A good Sweep is able to provide guidance that will increase safety and enjoyment of the ride.

C) inform riders of cars by calling "car back".

D) on more advanced rides, there may be instances where the group needs to move from the shoulder onto the road surface to do a right hand turn. The Sweep should check that is safe to move across, by turning their head, and call riders across, if it is safe to do so.

E) on some rides, the Ride Leader may need to place a "signpost" at a corner to guide following riders where to turn. The Sweep needs to signal to the "signpost" when they see them and so relieve them of their duty to remain in place.

F) continually inform the Ride Leader of how the group is coping with the ride pace and conditions. The role of Sweep is a very important one in ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride so next time the Ride Leader calls for a Sweep, consider volunteering, to assist with a smooth and enjoyable ride.