Cycling in Hemel Hempstead
Cycling has so many benefits. Not only is it a fun, sociable and healthy activity, it can help you save money on fuel and parking costs and reduce your carbon footprint. What's more, cycling in towns is often faster than other means of transport.
Ride categories
Group A (Social)
Aim: A relaxed, social ride for riders who just want to enjoy the countryside in good company and keep fit. An ideal introduction to group road cycling for those who perhaps already cycle reasonably regularly on their own or with one or two friends, or for the returning rider after a period away from club cycling.
Ability: 36 miles in 3 hours.
Pace: Average 12-14 mph over distances of typically 35 to 45 miles. Generally over easier terrain although participants should expect to encounter some hills.
Notes: This group will not ordinarily practice rider rotation, although other aspects of riding style (especially safety) will apply (see above). Cafe stop always planned.
Group B (Social Plus)
Aim: A slightly faster social ride for riders who have a reasonable level of fitness. It offers a stepping stone between Groups A and C for riders who are increasing their fitness and riding experience and want to ride a bit further and at a slightly higher pace.
Ability: 40 miles in 3 hours.
Pace: Average 14-16 mph over distances of 40 to 50 miles.
Notes: As they grow in fitness and experience, riders are expected to contribute to the effort by taking some turns on the front rather than leave it all to the Ride Leader and the most experienced participants. Routes may be hillier than Group A. Cafe stop always planned.
Group C (Inters)
Aim: A sporting social ride for fitter and more experienced riders who are already comfortable riding in a group. Well suited to regular entrants of cyclo-sportives.
Ability: 45 miles in 3 hours.
Pace: Average 16-17.5 mph over distances of 50 to 65 miles; steady speed on flat with no wind 18 mph.
Notes: Well suited to fitter riders who enjoy a more sporting social ride but with the opportunity to recover and regroup after hills and harder efforts. Often includes quite challenging hills within the routes. Cafe Stop always planned.
Group D (Fast)
Aim: A fast ride for experienced riders. Suited to fitter riders, regular racers and challenging sportive participants.
Ability: 50 miles in 3 hours.
Pace: 17.5+ mph over distances of up to 70 miles; steady speed on flat with no wind 20mph.
Notes: Good training and preparation for entry level racing. Riders should expect to average 17-19 mph over distances of up to 70 miles with some more intense efforts when planned by run leader. Riders should be self-reliant and not expect the group to continually wait for them if they are unable to maintain the pace of the group. Cafe Stop rarely planned.
