FAQs

Yes, Treads CC is officially registered with British Cycling. There are several benefits for being a registered club with British Cycling for the club and riders, including a discount at various local shops with a valid membership card.

As a paying member of Treads CC, you will benefit from:

• Organised weekly club rides
• British Cycling affiliation
• Ride leaders for organised rides
• Discounted British Cycling membership
• Away ride organisation
• Social events throughout the year
• Free use of club kit at events
• Access to club tools
• Race event organisation and support
• Years of knowledge and experience from endurance events, road races and the velodrome
• Bikepacking opportunities and support
• Many more!

Our club welcomes riders of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced cyclists. Whether you're looking to improve fitness or enjoy social rides, you're welcome here. We have members that are relatively new to road cycling and group cycling with a club, but we also have experienced and very seasoned riders. Come along and give us a go!

You do not need to be a member for the first 3 rides, after that you should purchase membership, where you will be given a digital membership card. You can join any ride by turning up, but please let us know you're coming via our sign-up facilities on the website.

Membership runs from February 1 to January 31 each year and includes third-party insurance and access to club kit for events.

Pricing:

• Senior (over 16) – £16.00
• Family (4 persons max) – £35.00 (Family of 4)
• Junior (under 16) – £8.00
• Student (in education) – £10.00

We welcome all abilities, even if you've never ridden in a group before. Beginners may start at the back of the group, but by sticking with it you'll gradually build fitness and confidence. Beginner rides are held every second weekend of the month, providing a comfortable introduction to cycling and group rides.

Saturday Road Rides

• Group A: 60+ miles (about 14-16mph)
• Group B: 40–60 miles (about 13-14mph)

If we have limited numbers on any Road Ride day, we will usually all ride together as a Group B pace, but usually the longer route.

Sunday Mountain Bike Rides

• One Group: 20–30 miles

There is always a cafe stop for a bite to eat, a drink and mid-ride rest!

All our rides are social, which means there is a no drop policy. We ride to the slowest rider's pace. If riders would like to push on the hills, that's usually fine, but please regroup. Anyone at the front is responsible for maintaining an average pace.

Routes are planned at least 3 weeks in advance and routes will be repeated. We are open to our riders suggesting routes and stops for us to consider.

We ride together; safety and respect are our top priorities. Here are the key points of our club ride etiquette:

• Ride predictably – Hold your line, avoid sudden moves and signal your intentions clearly.
• Communicate – Use hand signals and call out hazards ("hole," "car back," "slowing", etc).
• Obey the law – We follow The Highway Code and The Countryside Code at all times.
• Respect the group – Make sure that you match your ability and don't surge, half-wheel or drop other riders purposely.
• Be courteous – Look out for one another, pedestrians and drivers. We represent the club and local cycling community.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cyclist, following these guidelines helps keep our rides enjoyable, efficient and safe for everyone.

Road bikes are commonly used for Saturday rides, including race, endurance, climbing, aero or allroad frames. Gravel and Cyclocross bikes are popular in winter. Mountain bikes (hardtail and/or full suspension) are used for Sunday rides.

Cheaper bikes tend to be heavier and components may wear faster, but as long as it is maintained, it will easily handle club rides. Passing a few members on higher-end bikes can boost confidence!

You'll need a bike to ride, but the club can provide advice and may know of used bikes for sale.

For comfort, invest in cycling-specific clothing: long/short sleeve jersey, bib shorts or tights (with padding), sports socks, cycling shoes and UV protective glasses (for sun and dirt).

Although our regular members usually have everything to hand, you should aim to bring your own gear and tools, to be self-sufficient.

Compulsory: Helmet, water bottles and a mobile phone if you need to contact us. Money is required for cafe stops and/or emergency travel (usually contactless is fine).

We recommended: Bike computer (with route loaded), spare inner tubes, small pump or mini electric pump, a multitool, rear light and a lightweight rain jacket if there's chance of rain. Specific bikes may require specific tools, so ensure you bring everything you need in case of a mechanical.

Optional extras: Front light and a small snack or energy bar is advised for particularly long rides – down to personal preference.

Not at all! Some riders prefer lycra for comfort and quick-drying benefits, while baggies or casual shorts are fine too. Wear whatever suits you for the weather and ride conditions. Club kit is also available for purchase via our online shop.

Absolutely! Most rides involve friendly discussions about kit and experienced members are always happy to offer advice.

Junior members (under 16), require written consent from a parent or guardian. Senior members (over 16) have no upper age limit. You must be able to keep with the pace of the rides.

We ride in reasonable weather to keep it safe. If light rain is forecast, we'll still ride but carry a waterproof jacket – a bit of drizzle or a short shower is no problem. If the forecast looks bad, or it's already raining heavily or very windy before a ride, it might be cancelled. It is almost guaranteed to be cancelled if there is a risk of ice on the roads.

You will be invited to a private WhatsApp group if you join. Most members are active on our Strava Club where we post news and check out member activities.

Yes, we do actively participate in races or other public events as a club, members will receive information about this once they join.