Ripon Cycling Club : About Our Rides

About Our Rides

We have rides of various lengths, elevation and frequency to suit most people.  We are a small but friendly club and encourage all members to suggest ride destinations and days.

Our ride calendar generally includes rides starting at 9.30am on Sunday, Wednesday and Friday mornings and Tuesday evening at 6/6.30pm for a shorter ride.  Rides are listed on the Club website riponcycylingclub.co.uk and on Spond (only members will be able to access Spond).

Rides will include a cafe stop mid way with the exception of the evening rides when we ride without a break and finish in a local pub.  

We are flexible enough to move and/or adjust rides to take advantage of good weather (or avoid the poor weather).

It is always difficult to grade rides as what is hard to some is easy to others but we have tried some classification to give members an idea.  Wherever possible the route of the ride will be included on the website and Spond where members can see the distance and elevation profile to determine if it is the ride for them.  If in doubt, please contact the ride leader in advance. 

Leisure Rides

These rides suit those new to road cycling, those recovering from injury or those who just wish to have a shorter easier ride. The length of the ride will vary but will vary in length from 25 to 35 miles with an average speed of c11 mph. There will be some hills (inevitable) as we explore the local villages via the quiet lanes and byways. Please check the individual ride route for distance , elevation profile and route for full details.

Intermediate Rides

These rides will go further and faster than Leisure rides and will typically be 35-45 miles in distance with an average speed of around 12+ mph. They will involve a cafe stop around halfway. The elevation will vary according to location but will generally be hillier than a Leisure ride. We always try to find routes that use quieter roads and byways but inevitably some main roads will be included. Please check the individual ride route for distance , elevation profile and route for full details.

Longer Rides

These rides are for more capable and confident riders as they will be longer and may involve more climbs over a higher elevation profile. Generally rides will be 50 to 60 miles but may be longer. Average speed will be quicker than on Intermediate rides but will of course vary according to the hills. Rides frequently explore the more interesting and hilly sections of the countryside which this additional range allows us. Please check the individual ride route for distance , elevation profile and route for full details.