Code of Practice
The RSF issues the following comments in the interests of all who use our open spaces.
1. Where you ride
Keep it legal! Ride only bridleways, byways, designated cycleways and some forestry tracks, or towpaths where permissible. There is no legal right to ride on public footpaths.
Avoid confrontation over rights of way and seek to achieve conciliation, or back down. In cases of dispute, seek to follow up on a legal basis subsequently, either individually, or through an organisation. Waymark colour coding: byways red, bridleways blue, footpaths yellow.
(NOTE Rights of Way may differ in Scotland and the Outdoor Access Code sets out a more flexible approach than that found in England and Wales)
The RSF in advocating that members should use only those routes as described above, recognises that members may from time to time elect to use a route, either riding or walking with a cycle, that is not a designated way. In such cases it is recommended that extreme caution and care be exercised; particularly so in sensitive areas.
2. How You Ride
Give way to walkers and horse-riders on all "off road" routes. Make sure that they hear you approach. Take care as you pass. Always walk through congested areas. Large groups of riders can be menacing to other users, thin out whenever necessary. Respect and give way to other land management activities, sheep gathering, game shooting, forestry etc.
Follow the Country Code. Avoid fierce braking and skidding to minimise erosion and damage to tracks. If possible try and walk over very soft ground to avoid cutting it up.
Think about your riding and the impact it has on the trail. Practice to improve your skill and you'll make less impact on the trail itself. Wet and muddy trails are vulnerable to damage. Adjust your riding accordingly and even use alternatives where appropriate. Try and keep to existing trails rather than widening them or creating new lines.
Always take your litter home with you, old inner tubes and cycle litter reflect badly on all riders.
3. Control Your Bike
Stay focused, even a seconds innatention can cause problems for you and other trail users.
Check your speed and ride responsibly, think about when the conditions are right for riding fast. Awareness will help avoid incidents with others around you.
Remember there are inherant risks associated with all aspects of off road riding. Be realistic about your riding ability. If you're not sure about an obstacle get off, have a walk around it, pick out a line before attempting it. if your not happy when you've had a closer look it's okay to get off or go around if possible.
