PBC Code of Conduct
Your executive board has determined that our club, having existed for 54 years, was in need of a policy to guide our interactions with one another. 99.9% of the time we are respectful of our cycling friends and adhere to social norms that help us function together while avoiding misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and even a sense of mistreatment.
This policy will allow your current and future boards to refer to a set of expectations if infractions occur or are alleged.
For most if not all of us, these guidelines are already ingrained in us as a part of our value system. However, the board felt it was important to establish a formal PBC position in the form of a policy to clearly describe how we expect club members to treat fellow riders. ✎
You will also find this document on our website. Log in and use the members only pulldown menu to the new “Club Info” and then PBC Policies.
Thank you for reviewing this new policy, the first we have implemented that addresses behavior.
Portland Bicycling Club Code of Conduct Policy, March 19, 2025:
To maintain a cohesive organization and a safe environment, participants agree to the following Code of Conduct as a condition of participation in any PBC program or activity:
As a Portland Bicycling Club participant, I promise to practice good sportsmanship and conduct myself in a respectful manner at all PBC functions and rides as well as any bicycling and non-bicycling activities where I am representing the PBC. (“Representing the club” is considered to be any time you are at an event where you are registered as a PBC rider, member, ride leader, volunteer, board member, donor, or participant.)
- I will conduct myself in a respectful manner, exhibit good conduct, and be a positive role model.
- I will treat people with dignity, respect, and compassion to foster a trusting environment free of harassment, intimidation, and discrimination.
- I will communicate concerns that arise with PBC board members, if appropriate, as they arise in order to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all.
- I will promote inclusion by encouraging all, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
- I will not harass, bully, threaten, alienate, discriminate, or make disparaging remarks to/against any person, and I will not harass or alienate others through my attire, verbal comments, or unwelcome attention.
- I will refrain from non-consensual physical contact, sexual advances, obscene language or gestures, and other unwanted behavior.
- I will display respect and courtesy for club members, other volunteers, program participants, and property and I will follow the rules of the road.
- I will display respect for all types of bicycle riders, including e-bikes, first-time riders, physically disabled riders, recumbent riders, and riders who are not perceived to be wearing or riding on high-end gear.
- I will avoid consuming alcohol beyond the legal limits as well as other substances at PBC activities and will not report to these activities while inebriated or under the influence of illegal drugs.
Here are examples of how to live out our values on rides:
- Abide by all relevant traffic regulations whether on individual or group rides; respect rules of the road and maintain safe riding habits.
- Assist any rider having mechanical or physical difficulties on PBC rides when they are unable to continue to ride safely.
- Ride SMART: Stay alert; Maintain space; Act safely and predictably; Respect the rules of the road; Think ahead and talk.
Ann Morrow, President