Off Road
Each ride is graded as 1, 2 or 3. Sometimes you may find a 1/2 ride or 2/3 ride which are in between these grades (they can be designated 1+ or 2+). Grades depend on steepness and frequency of hills and technical sections, especially downhill or where tracks are narrow.
For your first ride with us we strongly advise you to start with level 1 whatever your skill and fitness, this will acclimatise you to the level we ride at.
(1) = Easy – Ideal for those who want a relaxing, social ride. usually along tow paths and in parks (e.g. Richmond). There may be some slight hills. Suitable for those with some previous experience and a reasonable level of fitness. The rides are typically 12-16 miles.
We also run easier rides occasionally, these are marked ‘Suitable for beginners’.
(2) = Intermediate Some hills and/or technical sections but nothing too difficult. Will get your heart pounding occasionally!
(3) = Challenging These can include steep and long hills and difficult technical sections. They are both challenging and exhilarating. We encourage all of our riders to learn skills and get fit enough to reach this grade. But remember, we are an over 50 age group so we always cycle within our limitations.
(3+) = Very Challenging! We cater for all sorts and some of our riders really want to stretch themselves. So these rides can be fast, long and very challenging and often a combination of all three. Only for riders who have shown themselves to be comfortable and adept on grade 3 rides. Only turn up once you’ve had a chat with the ride leader beforehand.
Electric bikes
The above grades are for normal bikes. For many rides, especially level 2, intermediate, e-bike riders may find them very easy. But be careful, for example 3+ rides are usually technically challenging. An e-bike may get you up the hills but are not a great deal of use if you haven’t got the downhill skills! if you have any doubts then contact the ride leader beforehand.
You may notice that some rides are recommended for e-bikes only and that other ride leaders may request that you only use a normal bike