COME PREPARED, LEAVE SMILING
SOCIAL RIDE TIPS & FAQS
So, you’re thinking of joining your very first club ride. Before you read any further, stop over-thinking it and just come out! It can be intimidating–we know. But everyone is welcome, whether you’re new to riding, are shy and struggle meeting people, or if you’re simply visiting from out of town and are looking for a group who knows the trails. Check out the ride schedule, and keep reading for more tips on what you should know before your first ride.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
1. COME PREPARED
Although you’re riding with a group of people, you should always come to every group ride fully self-sufficient. Everyone is friendly and willing to help out their fellow rider, but it’s just a good practice to always carry the following with you at all times:
- A spare tube
- Multi-tool
- Water & snacks
- A small first-aid kit
- A whistle
- A patch kit
- Hand pump and/or co2 cartridges
- Tire levers
2. HAVE SOME BASIC BIKE HANDLING SKILLS
3. B.Y.O.B
Bring your own beverages! These are social rides after all, so bring a chair and some beverages of your choosing for a little apres-ride. The groups generally like to stick around after the ride to share a few laughs before heading home. (Granted, this is weather permitting).
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
DO I NEED TO BE A MEMBER TO JOIN A GROUP RIDE?
Not for your first ride, but after the first three or so rides it is required. A portion of each membership goes towards insurance, which is required in order to run organized rides and manage the network in partnership with the land-owner. The best way to annually support mountain biking in the region is to have an active membership.
DO YOU HAVE RIDES FOR BEGINNERS?
Yes, but not all year long. We’ve found that the best time for beginners to learn is during the late-Spring and into the fall months when there is plenty of daylight and a lot less moisture.
If you’re looking to get into biking in the shoulder season, we highly recommend reaching out to Beyond Biking to sign up for one (or a few) of their skills clinics.
DO YOU HAVE LADIES RIDES OR RIDES FOR KIDS?
The NMBC currently doesn’t host ladies or youth rides, for a few different reasons. There are currently two options for women in the region who are looking for ladies-only rides, these are offered through Arrowsmith Bikes and Coal City Cycles on Monday and Thursday evenings respectively.
The NMBC currently doesn’t have any rides for those under 19, but get in touch with Arrowsmith Bikes and the Airhouse as they have youth rides and training clinics, respectively.
HOW FIT DO I HAVE TO BE TO JOIN A GROUP RIDE?
This depends which level of ride you’re hoping to join. Beginner rides typically go between 5 – 8 km, intermediate rides will go 8 – 13 km, and advanced rides are usually 13 – 20 km in a two to two-and-a-half hour time frame. A great way to start is to come to an all-levels ride on a Sunday to find out which group suits you best.
No matter what, no one is EVER left behind. If you’re having a hard time, just stay cool and don’t stress. Usually a fairly confident rider will always ride in the back to make sure no one gets lost or left behind.