At Marlow Riders, we’re proud to have a friendly, supportive culture that encourages people to enjoy cycling together, whatever their background or experience.

We know that joining a cycling club can feel like a big step. Many of our members had questions or concerns before their first ride, so we’ve answered some of the most common ones below. If there’s anything you’re unsure about, you’re very welcome to contact us at info@marlowriders.org.uk and we'll be happy to help. 

What are the joining pre-requisites?

To  keep our rides safe, enjoyable and well-matched for everyone, there are a few basic requirements:

• A level of fitness to ride around 30 miles at an average speed of approximately 10 mph. This is the pace and distance of our lowest-speed group. If you’re unsure, you might like to try a ride of a similar length and pace, such as this one. As a guide, completing this route in around 2 hours 45 minutes without a coffee break would indicate that you’re likely ready to join this group.
• A road bike (AKA racing bike) with drop (curved) handlebars. Our rides are designed for road bikes, as they are best suited to the distances, terrain and pace of our routes. Having everyone on a similar type of bike helps the group ride at a consistent speed, which makes the ride smoother, more enjoyable, and safer for everyone.
• Liability insurance through one of the insurance-eligible membership tiers of Cycling UK or British Cycling.

That's it!  If you've never ridden in a group before, don't worry, we'll help you learn the skills and etiquette you need to ride safely and enjoyably. 

What happens on my first ride?

Before your first ride, we’ll introduce you by email to the leaders of your group and let you know exactly where to meet and who to look out for.

When you arrive, you’ll be welcomed and, if you’re new to group riding, we’ll give you a short briefing on the basics, such as signalling and positioning. During the ride, experienced riders will keep an eye on you and offer guidance to help you settle in and build confidence.

Where can I sign up?

We manage our memberships over at RiderHQ. You can find the joining form here. The form includes a few questions about your riding experience and typical pace. This helps us suggest a group that is likely to suit you best for your first rides. 

I'm a member of another body that provides liability insurance. Do I still need to join British Cycling or Cycling UK?

British Triathlon, London Cycling Campaign and other organisations have varying policy terms and levels of cover, so we keep it simple by asking all our members to join either Cycling UK or British Cycling to ensure an adequate level of cover (minimum £10m), and cover whilst participating in club rides.

You can find out more about insurance requirements here.

Is there a group to suit me?

With groups ranging in speed from 10 mph to over 20 mph, and cultures ranging from "coffee, cake and conversation" to "tenacious training" and everything in between, most riders find a group that suits them well, whether they are new or returning to cycling, building fitness, or riding regularly.

What if I can't keep up?

We understand that everyone has off days - we've all been there. If a rider is struggling during a ride, the ride leader will assess the situation and decide on the best approach. This might include adjusting the pace, regrouping, or shortening the route.

Don't worry, we never leave riders behind, and your group will support you. 

Will there be an opportunity to rest during rides?

Our club rides always have a coffee stop, usually at around 30 to 40 miles.  Depending on your group and your ride, the ride leader might stop the group at junctions or other opportune spots by the roadside along the way to regroup, recover, take a drink and have a snack. We encourage members to let the ride leader know if they need a break; chances are others will too so don't be afraid to speak up. 

Will my skills be good enough? 

As long as you can stay upright on a bike and ride safely on your own, your skills will be good enough to join the club.  We'll teach you the skills you need to ride safely in a group, such as how to indicate potholes and obstacles, how to communicate and how to change position in the group. If you're interested in developing your skills as a rider, speak to your ride leader, your speed group leaders or a committee member. We have plenty of skilled riders in the club and we're sure to be able to find the right group or person to give you a few tips.   

What if I get a puncture or have a mechanical issue?

Punctures and mechanicals are part of cycling and we all get them at times. It's a good idea to know how to repair a puncture and have some basic knowledge of the workings of your bike so you can be safe even when cycling on your own; however, when riding with a group, there will be others willing to pitch in and get you going. We run occasional puncture repair and bike maintenance workshops, and you can always ask other members directly or on our forums if you need any help or advice.

Are there women-only rides?

We have explored women-only rides with our members on a number of occasions, but so far there hasn’t been demand for them. We have a very friendly, inclusive culture and our female members have told us that they feel welcome, safe and supported in our mixed gender groups.

We keep this under review and would be very happy to organise women-only rides if there is interest in the future.

Will I be the only female rider?

We have regular female riders in our Tigers, Jags and Leopards groups, and it's common to have more than one woman on each of those rides. 

Members can see who has signed up to rides in advance via the Team App, and are welcome to arrange to ride with others they know.

In Tigers, where members are allocated into groups by the group leaders, members are welcome to make special requests if they wish, such as being allocated to a group with at least one other female rider. 

What do I need to bring on a ride?

You will need:

• A road bike with two working brakes
• Helmet (compulsory, unless your religion requires you to wear a turban)
• Water
• Clothing appropriate to the weather
• Pump
• Two spare inner tubes
• Any snacks you might want to keep you energised until the coffee stop
• Means to pay for your drink and cake at the coffee stop

Do you allow e-bikes?

Yes, e-bikes have made cycling accessible to a broader community of riders and their use reflects our ethos of cycling for all, so we are pleased to welcome e-bike riders on our club rides.

Your e-bike must comply with UK regulations, and we ask that you’re mindful of a few considerations that can affect the group you’re riding with.

If you’re planning to join us on an e-bike, please read our e-bike policy first.

Is the club involved in racing?

No. Performance and competition are not areas we focus on as a club. We are a social cycling club with an emphasis on enjoyable group riding and camaraderie. 

That said, many of our members have their own personal goals, including sportives and competitive events undertaken independently. While the club does not organise racing or provide coaching for specific performance objectives, riding regularly with a supportive group can be a great way to build fitness, confidence and motivation alongside others.

What is the cost of membership?

Our annual membership fee is £40 and your membership will renew on 1 April in the calendar year after you join.