BBC Code of Conduct - for all members

March 25th, 2023

Key Principles of the Code  

As a member of the Berkeley Bicycle Club (BBC), you represent BBC. How you present yourself on the bike and online matters. We wish to maintain a reputation as a welcoming, well-respected club whose members are role models to other road and trail users. 

This summary is intended to answer some of the basic questions about what it means to be a member of the BBC and to set clear expectations for club members. It is intentionally not exhaustive but rather is meant to guide behavior. 


Behavior of Club Members

BBC is first and foremost a diverse community of individuals who share a passion for cycling. In order to preserve our community, members are expected to treat each other with respect while in person, on rides, at BBC events and online ( club email, Slack, etc.)  Additionally, adult members are expected to be role models for junior riders.

The club will not tolerate:

  • Any act of abuse, violence, intimidation, bullying or harassment against another club member, another rider or member of the public

  • Escalating behaviors that could incite road rage. It is better to be safe than right.

  • Riding in or to/from a club activity while under the influence of drugs or alcohol

  • Damage to or theft of any person’s property

Online conduct

Our online platforms are a critical tool for members to stay connected with each other. Please remember, members of all ages and backgrounds use our digital platforms. 

  • Do not make personal attacks or engage in flame wars (long, abusive exchanges). The purpose of written communication on group platforms should exclusively be to foster community; attacks and rants only create ill-will. 

  • Avoid swearing or offensive language.

  • Refrain from making critical remarks about our sponsors and organizations that we support

  • Offensive posts will be removed. This includes any post that discriminates on the basis of race, gender, religion, disability, or other group identity.

  • Member requests to remove or edit a post due to disagreement with the opinion expressed will likely not be responded to unless the post is offensive in nature. If you have a concern with a post due to what you see as inappropriate content, please contact BBC-BOD@googlegroups.com.

Summary of BBC Ride Guidelines

  • Follow the ride leader’s instructions at all times.

  • Exhibit respect for each and every rider, welcome new riders and be inclusive.

  • Ask before physically touching another rider. Unsolicited touch is not OK.

  • If you have one, wear a BBC kit; helmets are mandatory.

  • Exhibit predictable group riding skills, avoid unexpected changes in direction or speed.

  • Share the road, be courteous of all road users

  • If you are new to the ride, do not ride off the front!

  • Have the right equipment - normally a road bike, never aero-bars in a group, ensure your bike is well-maintained

  • Be self-sufficient - come with nutrition and hydration appropriate for the ride, bring spares as needed including inner tubes, tools, pumps etc., know how to change a flat, and be aware of the route

  • Carry identification and emergency contact information

  • Have fun! 

Grievance and Disciplinary Process

Club members are expected to hold one another accountable for their behavior. Membership may be subject to termination as stated in the club bylaws, section 2.09. in the event that there are serious circumstances which warrant removal from the club. The Board, upon good faith determination, may decide that continued participation by the member is not in the best interests of the club or the advancement of the club’s purpose or mission. This process is meant to be used only rarely and is not intended to resolve interpersonal disagreements.