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Frequently Asked Question
Check our FAQ to see if Club Riding is suitable for you. If you have any additional questions feel free to contact us!
UPDATED
Who can join Surrey Cycling Club?
Our club is open to anyone over 18 years old, regardless of gender. Please refer to our checklist to see if joining a cycling club is right for you.
When are the club rides held?
Our club rides take place every Saturday, and we also have social rides on Sundays. Check Our Rides page for more details.
Where is the meeting point?
Our meeting point is located in Weybridge, Surrey at the Pub called Hand and Spear. Address is Old Heath Rd, KT13 8TX, Weybridge.
What is the expected speed during the rides?
We recommend cruising speeds of at least 22-26km/h on flat surfaces, although we do offer faster rides for advanced riders. Please visit Our Groups page for more details.
What is the expected distance during the rides?
The distance varies depending on the type of ride you join. Club rides can range between 50-125km, while social rides on Sundays average around 40km.
Can I join without prior registration?
No, we require new members to register through our simple 2-minute application form. If you're an experienced rider, join us on our next club ride after becoming a full member!
Do I need a road bike?
Yes, a decent road bike, in fully mechanical order is necessary to maintain cruising speed with the rest of the group.
How do I become a member?
Fill out our 2-minute application form, pay the £49 annual fee, and we'll email you important details and club rules. You can also request a demo ride to try before you commit.
Do I need Club Jersey?
Wearing our Club Jersey or Gillet is key to fostering a unified image and enhancing the club's reputation. We expect all members to don these items within three months of joining. However, we prioritise your comfort and safety, especially during the colder months. In winter, it's more important to stay warm and comfortable, so feel free to wear what keeps you cozy while cycling. Our club's spirit shines through our collective efforts, whether in club colours or winter gear!
What equipment do I need?
Always carry suitable clothing for the weather, food, drinks, a tool kit which includes at least one spare tube, tyre levers, a pump, a helmet, and a positive attitude.
Do you offer MTB or Gravel rides?
Not at the moment, but we're currently testing gravel rides internally. For now, we're a road cycling club.
How do you communicate?
Our members have access to our WhatsApp Community groups channels, Facebook Group, Strava, and Discord.
Do you organise special trips or events?
Yes, indeed! Our calendar is filled with exciting trips and events. Annually, we embark on a cycling adventure to either the Isle of Wight or the New Forest. We also host a bi-annual track day at Hillingdon Circuit for a thrilling experience. For those with a taste for grandeur, our "Tour de France"style cycling trips through the stunning French Alps are a highlight. Plus, we're expanding our horizons to include more European destinations soon. Stay tuned for these fantastic cycling experiences!
How can I contact you?
For any enquiries, email us at hello@surreycyclingclub.co.uk, call us at 01932 645 465 or click on the green WhatsApp button in the navigation bar.
What if I have never ridden in a group before?
Don't worry, we have friendly members who will help you get used to group riding and etiquette. They will guide and help you feel comfortable in the group.
Can I bring a friend on a ride?
Yes, you can bring a friend on a demo ride, but they must complete the demo ride application form. For regular rides, they need to become a full member.
Can I cancel my membership?
Yes, you can cancel your membership at any time or simply let it expire. We do NOT offer refunds.
What happens if I have a mechanical issue on a ride?
Our experienced members will always help with minor mechanical issues on a ride, but we recommend you bring a tool kit and spare tubes. If you have a major mechanical issue, we will try to help as much as we can, but please be prepared to order a taxi or a friend to pick you up.
How long does my membership last?
Your membership is valid for one year (12 months) from the date of registration. You will receive a reminder email when it is time to renew.
Do you offer coaching or training?
We do not offer coaching or training as part of our club membership. However, we have experienced riders who are happy to provide tips and advice to new members.
What happens if a ride is cancelled?
We will always try to notify members as soon as possible if a ride is cancelled due to bad weather or other circumstances.
Riding in a Paceline
Pacelines are either single or double. In a single paceline, everyone lines up behind the first rider, who maintains a constant speed.
The rotation occurs when the front rider pulls off to the side and drifts to the back of the line. The next rider then sets the pace. Riders stay on the front from a few seconds to several minutes. This type of paceline has the advantage of requiring less road space.
Riding in a Chain Gangs
In the sport of road cycling, a chain gang is a group of cyclists in a close knit formation usually of two parallel lines drafting behind the leader.
If the lead is rotated, the effort is distributed across the group and the speed can be higher or the individual effort less. When there are enough riders, turns at the front can be so brief that there is a continuous flow up and down, in two lines, so that cyclists take on the role of links in a chain. For that reason: chain gang.
Is riding in a club for me?
If you are keen to join rides with Surrey Cycling Club (SCC), please start with the checklist below:
Social Interaction: Do you enjoy the camaraderie that comes with group activities, and are you open to making new friends who share your interest in cycling?
Group Rides: Are you comfortable riding in a group? Group riding can be different from solo cycling and requires awareness of others, good communication, and adherence to certain protocols for safety.
Fitness Level: Are you able to maintain a reasonable pace over extended periods, usually between 2-4 hours? Each group has its 'Cruising Speed' which is the pace we expect our riders to maintain.
Challenge and Progress: Are you interested in improving your cycling skills, increasing your endurance, and pushing your limits in a supportive environment?
Safety & Respect: Are you willing to respect the rules of the road, adhere to our club's safety protocols, and show consideration for your fellow riders, drivers, and pedestrians?
Community Involvement: Do you enjoy being part of a community that organises events, social gatherings, and club rides?
Consistent Participation: While we do not mandate a minimum attendance, are you keen to take part in our rides on a fairly regular basis? We understand that life can be busy, and you're always welcome to join us whenever you can!
Remember, if you've answered 'Yes' to most of these questions, Surrey Cycling Club could be an excellent fit for you. We'd love to have you join one of our demo rides to experience the club first-hand.
