AA outdoor cycling is often misunderstood as simply splitting costs equally — this is the biggest misconception in current AA outdoor cycling. In reality, it’s not just about sharing expenses, but also sharing responsibilities and risks equally. So during an outdoor ride, it's not only the riders who face danger — the leader does too. Some people entering the cycling scene are always, to some extent, looking for someone to rely on, which leads to complaints like “the leader doesn’t take good care of others” or “experienced riders look down on newcomers.” Don’t assume that others will help you. Here, everyone is facing nature independently. It’s up to others whether they help you, but you must understand: I must rely on myself!!!
2. Always be aware of your companions' safety
During a ride, if a teammate falls or can’t continue, the whole team may face many difficulties. A team is a unit, and every member’s mistake can bring unexpected challenges to the group. Therefore, protecting your teammates is also protecting yourself, and this doesn’t contradict the first point: taking care of yourself is the rule for safe riding; protecting your teammates is the guarantee for achieving your common goals.
3. Don’t join an AA group far beyond your skill level
Many new riders complain that experienced ones don’t take them out. If it’s just route A, it might be okay, but what about route B? Then you have to ask yourself: do I have the ability to handle such a route? In an AA group with a big gap in skills, there will inevitably be an imbalance in information and experience: choosing routes, selecting campsites, picking gear, and handling unknown challenges. Some things others might remind you of carefully, while others may not even realize. Especially on long rides, whether your gear is waterproof or insulated matters. Small details overlooked can put you at much greater risk and difficulty than your teammates. The outdoors is dangerous. When everyone is pushed to their limits, the top priority becomes survival. Therefore, it must be understood that when danger strikes, accidents often start with the weakest member of the group.
4. Never push yourself to your absolute limit
Friends, if you’re participating in an organized commercial tour with proper safety backup, go ahead and push your limits — because when you’re exhausted, the organizers will ensure you're safely returned to camp. If you’re riding for honor, then push your limits too — because achieving your goal is your ultimate choice. But in a self-organized ride, you need to consider your fellow riders. Try not to put pressure on others, no matter how fast or slow you go. Be considerate and keep the entire group together.
What Organizers of Outdoor Activities Need to Know
1. Safety always comes first
When unexpected situations arise, you must dare to "sacrifice" — and this applies not just to the group as a whole, but sometimes to individuals too. Many times, members may not recognize the dangers ahead, but if the leader notices, they must speak up and intervene. Perhaps someone isn't physically fit, or maybe they lack the right equipment. Don’t rely on luck. Sure, making that call is tough, but you have to give something up to gain safety. Leaders must understand: safety always comes first!!!
2. Adjust plans and schedules based on the weakest member
In outdoor cycling, a good leader must constantly monitor the condition of all members, set the pace according to the weakest rider’s stamina, and adjust both the plan and itinerary based on that rider’s capabilities. Only then can the safety of the whole team be ensured. Some leaders may feel such arrangements are unfair, but either don’t take that person on the trip, or if you do, you must take their ability into account for safety's sake.
3. Always listen to reasonable suggestions from members
Leaders are not omnipotent. Often, they too are unsure of what to do. On one hand, members should always offer reasonable suggestions to the leader, and on the other, the leader should humbly accept them. Don’t pretend to know everything or show off; be honest about your own limitations.
4. Two types of members not to take
A. Don’t take members who lack a spirit of teamwork: These are often the so-called “strong riders” — late, selfish, and independent. They have their own set of experiences, beliefs, or selfish motives, and may resist the leader’s decisions. Often they act on their own. Such members can be disastrous for the whole team.
B. Don’t take members with vastly different skill levels: If the gap is too large, it won’t just hold the team back, it can also cause discord among members. A simple comment like “They’re just a beginner, can’t you take care of them?” can drive you crazy. Whether or not they’re attractive, just say no to such members — it’s better for them and the whole team.
5. Some may say, when gathering members for a trip, it’s impossible to know everyone’s physical condition or personality in advance. This brings me to my final principle: try to go out with people you know well!
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