Cycling communities
No matter what type of riding you enjoy, chances are, there’s a group that suits you.
CYCLING is becoming increasingly popular and a great way to get started in this hobby is to join a local cycling group.
Different groups have different cycling styles: some are more relaxed, while others are more hardcore.
Star2 talks to the founders of three groups to find out more about what makes them tick – and how you can be part of the action too.
Bangsar Cycling Group
Cycling helps us to know our country better, especially when interacting with the locals in rural areas. And obviously, it’s a healthy lifestyle.
This is why professional chef Danial Anis Marzuki, 33, believes that cycling is good for Malaysians. He co-founded the Bangsar Cycling Group three years ago together with his friend, Johan Sopiee.
There are 650 members in the group, and they meet up regularly every Tuesday night for a ride. There are many different cycling routes, and the path chosen depends on the fitness levels of those who turn up.
“We will usually ride downtown and take photos at either KLCC, KL Tower, or other scenic spots. And that’s usually followed by food,” he added.
The rides are normally about 25-30km only because most people would need to work the next day so they can’t stay out too late. They also organise (longer) weekend rides.
He is also an active advocate for bicycle infrastructure and cycling as a means of everyday transportation, not just for recreational activities.
“Our members come from many different backgrounds and countries, and we always communicate in one common language, which is English,” he said.
He added that the Ride for Malaysia (organised by Star Media Group and property developer Sunsuria Bhd – see details on next page) is a good effort to bring people together and instill a spirit of harmony and unity.
“Cycling is more often than not a happy and positive activity that is shared by all races at the same time. When the objective is to cycle and have fun, you tend to leave all the other issues behind and focus on the ride,” he said.
For more information on their activities, visit: www.facebook. com/groups/bcgbcg/
Putrajaya Cycling Club
For Mohd Adib Noh, 65, cycling is a fun way to exercise and meet friends.
“My friends and I have been cycling in Putrajaya since 2008. We joined a few cycling groups which later evolved into special interest groups for mountain biking, road cycling, and leisure cycling for activities outside Putrajaya,” he said.
“Then, in 2013, a few of us – Tengku Nash, Abdul Samad, Sabri Ya, and myself – decided to form a cycling group for those who enjoy cycling in Putrajaya,” he added.
“We mainly cycle around scenic spots in and around Putrajaya, and we usually stop to take photos. The biggest ride we had was in 2015 with over 75 riders.”
With the Facebook group and member postings of activities, news spread very fast, and now, the group has 1,043 members.
“It’s quite a muhibbah or multicultural group with cyclists from all walks of life, races, ages, and social backgrounds,” said Mohd Adib, who hails from Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor.
Cyclists of all ages, newbies or veterans, and all bicycle types – foldies, mountain bikes, roadies, and fatties (bikes with fat tyres) are welcome.
“Every month, we organise two rides and they are usually on Sunday, from 8am until 11am,” said this photography enthusiast.
The group usually pedals for 15-25km around cycling tracks in Putrajaya, with several photo stops in between.
“When cycling, it’s easier to discover the hidden gems around Putrajaya. We usually go for breakfast after the rides.”
He said that becoming a member is easy and free.
“Just join the Facebook group, and when we organise a ride, we’ll usually invite everyone in the group.”
Ride For Malaysia is hosted by Star Media Group and property developer Sunsuria Bhd. The event will be flagged off at 6.30am at Sunsuria City on July 30.
The grand prize is a silver edition Vespa LX 150. For the 30km fun ride, the cash prizes for the top three are: RM3,800 (first), RM2,800 (second) and RM1,800 (third). There are also cash prizes from the fourth to 50th positions. There are also 10 units of folding bicycles to be given away. For the 5.5km family ride, the cash prizes are: RM2,000 (first), RM1,000 (second) and RM500 (third). Come in fancy dress, glamour getups, or outlandish costumes and you might also win prizes for best fancy dress (overall-individual/couple/ family); most sporting family (family of four); and best looking couple. For more information and to register, go to sites.thestar.com.my/ rideformalaysia. For group bookings, call 03-7967 1388 and ask for Events.