We ask the questions that beginners are dealing with and get answers from the experts... SHOULD I JOIN A CYCLING CLUB?
DAVE HEMMING MOUNTAIN BIKING LEGEND AND ROAD RIDER WITH FOXGROVE.CC SAYS:
“Yes is the short answer. When I joined my first club in 1988 its membership was certainly the more mature cyclist. I’d say the demographic is much broader now – which is much healthier – but it remains a place to learn, mastering skills like riding in a peloton. Many clubs organise group rides in the week and at weekends, while many race, too. The club I ride with is a very sociable cycling group; it’s about riding in new places, made all the more enjoyable with my club mates.
“Having been a cyclist all my life, being a member of a young cycling club [formed in 2015] reminds me of when I first joined a club and added a freshness to an old campaigner. It’s been great to see my club mates take on huge challenges like the Dragon Ride, Fred Whitton and Etape du Tour; it’s a joy to watch club mates new to cycling being blown away by the journey the bike takes them on.”
JULIE RAND VOLUNTEER AND COMMUNICATIONS ENGAGEMENT OFFICE AT CYCLINGUK.ORG SAYS:
“Joining a cycling club not only means you never have problems seeking out companions to ride with, it also brings support and guidance, whether it’s somebody to help with a mechanical or good route, a friendly bit of advice about the right kit to use or where locally serves the best coffee and cake. You’ll also have the chance to take part in organised rides, competitions and social events. The people you ride with can help you achieve your cycling goals. That can range from riding further and faster than you thought possible to completing a 100-mile sportive.
“Contact the group first to find out what kind of riding they do and whether or not “YOUR CLUB MATES CAN HELP YOU REACH YOUR GOALS… INCLUDING COMPLETING A 100 MILE SPORTIVE ” you’d be a good fit for them. Most clubs have a slower ride option for people new to cycling. Once you’ve found the club for you, lend a hand at club meetings and events – it’s the quickest way to get to know people and make new friends. If you’re struggling to find what you’re after, why not offer to lead a different kind of ride or start your own group or club? To find a local group, try www.cyclinguk.org/groups-listing.”