When organizing group rides involving EU team cars and eBike pelotons, adherence to safety protocols is paramount. This guide outlines five critical rules to ensure smooth coordination between support vehicles and electric bicycle groups, minimizing risks while maximizing efficiency.
Maintain Safe Following Distance
A minimum 15-meter buffer between team cars and eBike groups is recommended by the European Road Safety Charter. This accounts for sudden deceleration in electric bicycle pelotons, which may occur faster than traditional cycling groups due to higher torque output.
Calculating Optimal Gaps
Factors like terrain gradient (e.g., Alpine ascents) and battery-assisted speeds require dynamic adjustments. For instance, descending at 45km/h with regenerative braking engaged necessitates doubling the standard gap.
Use Clear Communication Protocols
Dedicated VHF radios (68-87 MHz band) should link team cars with ride leaders, as standard mobile networks may fail in remote areas. The UCI technical guidelines mandate visual hand signals when radios are impractical.
Adapt to eBike Peloton Dynamics
Electric-assist bicycles create unique drafting patterns. Support vehicles must anticipate rapid acceleration bursts (0-25km/h in 3 seconds for performance eBikes) and wider turning radii due to battery weight distribution.
Comply with EU Road Safety Directives
Article 17 of EU Regulation 2019/2144 requires team cars to display 360° visibility markings when accompanying cycling groups. Night operations demand amber roof beacons visible from 200 meters.
Emergency Preparedness
Carry specialized tools for eBike systems: torque wrenches for mid-drive motors, insulated gloves for 48V battery disconnects, and thermal blankets to stabilize lithium-ion packs in crash scenarios.
