Cycling Information/Guidelines
WHERE:
Our group rides include both road and gravel trail rides. We do not generally tackle downhill mountain bike trails. Routes are generally close to the North Okanagan, with the exception of the yearly camp out, which can be further afield.
The focus of rides is enjoyment, exercise, and camaraderie. Our rides are geared for cyclists who have experience on public roads and/or gravel trails (as appropriate to the route of the day) and a moderate level of endurance. Most days we offer a choice of two rides - a shorter, slower paced ride and a longer, generally quicker paced ride with fewer stops.
Each ride is described in the CALENDAR tab of this website, where you will find the rides of the day, distances, difficulty rating, leader’s name and contact #, meeting spot, lunch location, and gratuity (if ride sharing). While the meeting place each Thursday is usually the Vernon Curling Club parking lot (3400 39th Avenue near the Recreation Complex), you are strongly urged to check the calendar the day prior for any updates or changes.
If you’re unsure whether or not a particular ride is right for you, please contact the leader to discuss. Some rides may be more leisurely, and some more focused on speed and distance. This will be indicated on the calendar along with the leader’s email/phone#. Generally, routes start out easier in the spring, and then become more challenging as the season progresses.
RIDE RATINGS (degree of difficulty):
A Leisurely < 35 km 15 km/hr Frequent stops Mainly flat terrain
B Intermediate 35-50 km 15-20 km/hr Occasional stops Flat to rolling terrain, some hills
C Advanced >50 km 20-25 km/hr Limited stopping Hilly with some steeper climbs
HOW WE RIDE:
Safety is emphasized. To that end:
- cycling helmets are MANDATORY on all club outings
- for their own and other road users' safety, cyclists will be expected to observe all road regulations and cycle in single file when on public roads or highways.
- cyclists must maintain good group bike riding discipline (use of hand signals, safe passing, single file) Riders must remain together and in visual contact. The leader is to be informed of any departures or deviations from the group activity.
- you are strongly encouraged to equip your bike with a rear view mirror, lights (front and back) and wear eye protection, even on dull days (a bee in the eye at speed hurts!)
- bright clothing is encouraged. Motorists have told us that they don’t always see us if dressed in grey, black, dull colours. So go flashy, dress as brightly as possible.
- make sure that your bike is in good working order.
WHAT TO BRING:
- a bike in good repair, with properly inflated tires. Tires slowly lose pressure day to day, poorly inflated tires will drag you down.
- adequate (and bright) clothing for expected and unexpected weather changes. Rain gear and sunscreen are always good to have.
- adequate water, nutritious snacks and a picnic lunch.
- bike repair kit (at least 1-2 spare tubes, small pump, and tire irons)
- personal first aid kit (what you would want/need for minor injuries, road rash, headache, allergies, etc.)
- cell phone is highly recommended
- please carry on your person or in bike bag personal health ID (emergency contact number, Health Insurance number)
WHEN WE RIDE:
All rides are listed on the cycling calendar under the website CALENDAR tab.
Make sure to recheck the calendar the day prior to each ride as unexpected circumstances (weather, road construction, etc) may have necessitated changes. Please be prepared to be flexible.
*** FOOTNOTE: Please read GENERAL INFO FOR ALL ACTIVITIES under the RESOURCE tab regarding your responsibilities, leaders, guests, use of alcohol/smoking, sign in sheets.
