FAQs
Have a look through Treads Cycle Club FAQ, if you can't find an answer then please feel free to drop us an email via the contact page.
Getting Started
Your first ride is a chance to meet the group and see how you get on. Arrive a few minutes early, introduce yourself and let us know it's your first time. We'll make sure you're in a suitable group and explain anything you need to know before setting off. Don't worry if you're new to group riding — our rides are social and we'll look after you.
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!
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. Beginner rides only go ahead with sufficient numbers.
Absolutely! Like all new riders, your friend can join us for up to 3 taster rides before they need to become a member. Just make sure they are aware of the ride distance and pace and have a suitable bike and equipment for the ride.
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.
If you're a regular rider and running late, you can let us know in the club WhatsApp group and either catch us up or meet us on the route. If you're a new rider, please make sure you arrive on time so we can meet you, get you settled into the right group and explain anything you need to know before setting off.
Membership
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!
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
Rides & Routes
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.
Saturday Road Rides:
- Group A: 40+ miles at an average of 15-17mph
- Group B: 40–60 miles at an average of 13-15mph
- Group C: 30–40 miles at an average of 13mph
For road rides, if we have a small number of riders, the rides will typically join up into one or smaller groups, depending on ability and distance. We will always ride to the slowest rider, without leaving anyone behind.
Sunday Off-road Rides:
- One Group: 20–30 miles
On off-road rides, we will stop periodically to rest, or just enjoy the scenery!
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. All of our rides will list the route details on the ride sign up section.
We normally spend a maximum of 30 minutes at cafe stops, chatting about bike stuff, eating a delicious treat and sipping tea or coffee before getting back on the road.
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.
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.
If a ride is cancelled, the website will be updated with a cancellation notice at least 1 hour before the scheduled start time. Members will also be notified via the club WhatsApp group where appropriate.
Bikes & Kit
For Saturday Road rides we mainly use a road bike; with a race or endurance frame being the most popular. Gravel and cyclocross bikes are popular in winter for more grip. For Sunday Off-road rides we use mountain (hardtail and/or full suspension) or gravel bikes, in the dryer months some riders like to use gravel bikes on the MTB rides, route dependant.
Yes, e-bikes are welcome on our rides, but riders should be able to manage their pace and ride considerately within the group. Please avoid surging on hills or riding significantly harder because of motor assistance, as maintaining a steady pace helps keep the group together. Make sure your battery is fully charged and prepared for the planned distance, with enough range to complete the ride without needing to rely on the group to accommodate a flat battery.
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.
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 recommend: 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.
For comfort, invest in cycling-specific clothing: long/short sleeve jersey, bib shorts or tights (with chamois padding), sports socks, cycling shoes and UV protective glasses (for sun and dirt).
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.
Club Life
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.