Frequently Asked Questions

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How are the rides organised?

The basic idea of the Community Cycle Rides is that a group of people meet up and agree to cycle a fixed route at a particular time. A volunteer who knows the route goes to the start point and leads the way (one of the other riders may agree to take over this role later in the ride). The ride takes place on the basis that all the riders accept responsibility for their own safety. It is very similar to a group of friends or family going out for a ride together. It is as simple as that and we try and keep the 'organisation' to an absolute minimum.

Is Cyclesolihull a club?

No. We see it as a volunteer-led community initiative which you can become part of simply by coming on a ride. However if you would like to take your cycling further you might like to consider joining a local club like a CTC group or Solihull Cycling Club - there are links to their websites here.

Who comes on the rides?

Anybody who decides to turn up! In 2007 it averaged out at about 10-15 people per ride but sometimes there were many more. The youngest self-pedalling rider was aged six and the oldest - well we were too polite to ask! Some people join the rides on a regular basis whilst others come along once or twice. This doesn't matter just come along when you want to!

I am a new cyclist - will I be too slow?

The overall pace is set by the slowest rider. However everybody cycles at their own pace and we stop from time to time for everyone to catch up. However you do need to have a roadworthy bike (but any kind of bike is fine) and be comfortable cycling on quiet roads. If this is a problem you are missing out on so much fun cycling and you might like to consider some basic cycle training. Details are available here.

What about bringing children?

Young children love cycling with their parents on a 'real' cycle ride. However the nature of the rides means that parents must accept responsibility for supervising and the safety of their children on the ride. You should bear this in mind if you are bringing a number of children. If you need assistance please ask as on most rides there will be usually be someone willing to help out on an informal basis. Children of all ages have enjoyed Cyclesolihull rides and we hope to see more in 2008!.

What about older children?

If older children are used to going out and riding on their own on quiet roads there is no reason why they should not join the rides like everyone else. Parents are the best judge of the amount of freedom to give to a particular child whether it's going shopping alone, visiting friends or on a cycle ride.

What about beakdowns?

it is common sense to make sure your bike is roadworthy before the ride - if in doubt take it to a bike shop. If somebody has a breakdown or puncture there is normally someone on the ride with tools or knowledge to help fix it and this has been the case the odd time there has been a problem on one of the rides. However the nature of the rides means there is no formal back up available so it is always handy to have a mobile phone and someone to call if possible just in case. However in keeping with the community spirit of the rides, the riders will try and help sort things out so everyone has a good time.

Is there a refreshment stop?

Yes, on most rides this is en-route but on S5 it is at the end. This is normaly 20-30 minutes at a cafe or pub so it is useful to bring some money. However as people sometimes choose to stay outside (most venues have open air seating) having your own drink is not normally a problem. It makes sense to bring a lock if you are going inside.

How long do the rides take?

With a refreshment stop the "S" rides take about 2 hours and the "M" rides 2.5 to 3 hours but this can vary depending on the number, age and experience of the riders.

Can't the rides be longer/shorter?

From experience we have found about 10--15 miles suits most people who come on the rides. If the rides are too short you can always cycle a longer way to the start point or join the longer Saturday Stretcher rides or rides organised by Solihull Cycling Club.

Many of the Cyclesolihull Routes have shortcut options and if people decide this would be better for them we try and help them out.

What about the weather?

Unless the weather is really bad (snow, ice, persistant heavy rain or very strong winds) the ride will normally go ahead if people turn up wanting to ride. If it is one of those awful days when it rains all day please don't be too surprised if the 'route volunteer' also decides to stay at home! Having said that only 4 rides did not take place in 2007 and it surprising how many rides stayed (more-or-less) dry on very unpromising days. If in doubt our home page contains a link to a rainfall radar which is an excellent way to check if there is any heavy rain nearby. If it is possible to provide an update on the website we will do, so it is worth checking if you are in any doubt about the ride taking place.

Where can I get more information?

If you need to know anything else you can always email us on info@cyclesolihull.org.uk. If you want to talk to a person you can try Steve on 01564 779235. Please bear in mind that Cyclesolihull is voluntary so a response may not be immediate. However we will try and help if we can.

Route S5

Meriden & Maxstoke Circular

(4,7 or 10 miles)

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