If it’s your first time taking part in a Community Bike Ride, you probably have questions. To alleviate any worries you may have, we have tried to answer as many questions as we could think of!
Will I be able to keep up?
Yes! Our bike rides are displayed in detail so that you can see exactly what you are signing up for. Choose the one which seems to best fit you, and once you’ve found a ride you like, read the ride description to get more detail about what’s involved. Group rides go at the speed of the slowest rider and are very much focused on developing social connections between the participants – there’ll be plenty time for chats! Our friendly Leaders will make sure nobody is left behind.
What if my bike isn’t the greatest?
As long as it’s roadworthy, you’ll be fine. You certainly don’t need to have a flashy or expensive bike – just make sure the gears and brakes work properly, and the tyres are pumped up (your local bike shop will be happy to help). Check the ride description first for an indication of whether the route will suit your type of bike. The Community Bike Ride Leader will run through a quick check before the ride and help you out if you’re worried about anything.
Can I bring kids to an Community Bike Ride?
Currently, this is an adult-only programme, so all participants must be 18yrs or over.
What do I wear?
Whatever you feel comfortable in. You don’t need to have ‘all the gear’. Comfortable shoes and some layers are a good idea. A helmet must be worn on all rides.
What do I need to bring?
A few supplies could be handy if you get a puncture, but don’t worry if it’s your first time, the Leader will be able to help you out.
Will everyone else know each other?
Probably not. Our group rides are very sociable, and there’s always plenty of time to chat, so they’re ideal if you’ve moved to a new area, if you’re trying to meet new people, or if you just want to try a new activity.
What if I get a puncture?
Don’t worry, you won’t be abandoned. Most of our Leaders aren’t bike mechanics, but they’ll give you a hand, and if you’ve brought a spare inner tube or a puncture repair kit, you should be up and running again in no time.
If you haven’t brought a repair kit, chances are somebody will have something you can borrow.
I’ve not been on my bike for years, where do I start?
Don’t panic. Find somewhere off the road, like a park, or an empty car park, and have a practice on your bike so you feel a bit more comfortable stopping, starting, turning, and using the gears. If you think you need a bit of help, contact your Local Sports Partnership (LSP) or Local Authority Sports Development Unit (LASDU) as many of these run cheap cycle training sessions.
Bike for Life is an 8-week programme bringing the cyclist on a journey of learning, where they are educated on the various skills, aspects and components of cycling in a safe, welcoming and social environment.
Do I need to be confident riding on the road?
If you feel a little unconfident riding on the road, you could try searching for a ride that makes the most of off-road trails (towpaths/greenways) or traffic-free places, like parks. It’s a great way to build your confidence before tackling the roads.
Who do I contact if I need to ask something?
Please email your query to communitybikerides@cyclingireland.ie
Do I need to book my place before turning up?
Yes! It’s really important that you register for the ride in advance to ensure you can participate on the day and you are insured to take part. To ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience, the Leader can only bring a limited number of participants. It’s free and easy to register, simply create an account on the site.
Any other questions?
If you have a question you don’t see here, please email us at communitybikerides@cyclingireland.ie
