Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL
Can anyone join?
Absolutely! We’re an LGBTQ+ cycling club open to everyone - all sexualities, gender identities, ethnicities, cultures, and expressions are welcome. If you love riding bikes and good vibes, this is your place. Please follow this link to apply for membership.
Do you cater for beginners?
Yes! As long as you’re confident riding a minimum of 30km (19 miles), you’ll fit right in. We’ve got lots of friendly, no-drop rides to help you build up confidence and fitness.
How active is the club?
We’re one of the most active clubs in London - over 500+ rides a year and 10+ trips across the UK and abroad. There’s something happening most days!
Do you have tiered rides?
Our rides are colour tiered 🟢🔵🟡🔴.
The tiers refer to the intensity of the ride, factoring in things like the distance and elevation profile of the ride.
This keeps everyone safe and comfortable - and helps you know what to expect.
New members start in the 🟢 and 🔵 tier, but upon request, and depending on your experience, you can move up.
Want to change your tiers? Just email us at info@ldnriders.com
Our Tiers Explained
🟢 Green Tier: Social and Beginner Friendly
A relaxed, sociable pace with frequent regroups. Ideal for riders building confidence or returning.
Average Speed/Ride Type for GREEN: 
Flat Rides: 20-24 km/hr
Hilly Rides: 18-22 km/hr
Long Rides: 19-22 km/hr
🔵 Blue Tier: Steady Rides
Steady moderate pace for riders who are confident at this speed, whether manintaining fitness or developing group skills.
Average Speed/Ride Type for BLUE:
Flat Rides: 23-27 km/hr
Hilly Rides: 21-25 km/hr
Long Rides: 22-25 km/hr
🟡 Yellow Tier: Performance Paced
Faster-paced rides for those comfortable sustaining higher speds and longer distances, suitable for a mix of experienced and developing riders.
Average Speed/Ride Type for YELLOW:
Flat Rides: 26-30 km/hr
Hilly Rides: 24-28 km/hr
Long Rides: 25-28 km/hr
🔴 Red Tier: Advanced/Training Focused
High-paced, challenging rides aimed at stronger riders seeking performance, training or competitive intensity.
Average Speed/Ride Type for RED:
Flat Rides: 30-34 km/hr
Hilly Rides: 27-31 km/hr
Long Rides: 28-32 km/hr
Is there a membership fee?
We charge just £35 a year - that’s less than £3/month. It helps cover admin costs and keeps the club running smoothly.
Can I join a trial ride for free?
Yes! Come along to one of our Free Taster Sessions — a relaxed way to meet the team, ask questions, and get a feel for what we’re about. Click here to sign up to a Free Taster Session.
Do you cover insurance?
We recommend all riders get personal cycling insurance. While we look out for each other, LDN RIDERS cannot be held responsible for accidents.
Do you hold social events?
Definitely. Every ride is social by nature - but we also organise monthly socials and other fun events year-round.
Is there a minimum age to join?
You must be 18 or over to join LDN RIDERS.
Can I volunteer with the club?
100%! We love when members get involved. From leading rides to planning events. Want to help out? Drop us a line!
CLUB RIDES
Where do you ride from?
We host rides starting from all over London: North, South, East, West, and Central, depending on the route. Some rides we may hop on a train to explore further.
What distances do you cover?
Our rides range from 30km to over 100km, depending on your experience level. So whether you're chasing your first 50km or training for something much longer, there's something for you.
Do you hold training sessions?
Yes! We offer weekly fitness and hills training sessions, helping riders improve strength, endurance, and climbing ability. They’re challenging, but fun, and everyone’s welcome.
Can I organise my own ride?
Yes – once you’ve gained experience riding with us, you can become a Ride Captain and plan your own route. We’ll support you with onboarding and guidance.
What happens if the weather is bad?
We ride in most conditions, but if the weather is unsafe (e.g. ice, storms, extreme winds), we’ll cancel or reschedule. Check Spond for the latest updates before your ride.
What happens if I have a mechanical issue on a ride?
All riders should be self-sufficient and bring essential tools. We recommend learning basic maintenance - YouTube is your friend!
Don’t forget to bring: spare inner tube, pump, multitool
Do I need to sign up for rides in advance?
Yes – all club rides require sign-up in Spond so we can manage group sizes and logistics
Are there any rules I should follow on club rides?
Yes – we value safety, respect, and fun. That means following the Highway Code, riding two abreast when safe, calling out hazards, and looking out for each other.
New to group riding? Don’t stress – we’ll support you on the journey.
CYCLING GEAR
Do I need a road bike?
We recommend a geared road bike, especially for hillier rides — it’ll make your life much easier.
Do I need cycling shoes / bibs / jersey?
No! Wear whatever makes you feel confident and comfortable — trainers, shorts, full lycra, or anything in between.
How do I order an LDN RIDERS jersey?
Our kit shop opens twice a year, giving members the chance to order team kit. You’ll be notified through Spond when it’s live
Do I need to wear a helmet?
Yes. A certified cycling helmet is mandatory on all club rides. Safety first.
What should I bring on a ride?
Here’s your essentials checklist:
- Water and snacks 
- Spare inner tube 
- Hand pump or CO₂ 
- Lights (especially in winter!) 
- Multitool & puncture repair kit 
- A fully charged phone 
- Positive energy! 
Can I ride with clip-on aero bars?
No – for safety reasons, we do not allow clip-on aero bars on group rides.
Can I use an e-bike?
We don’t allow e-bikes on group rides to ensure consistent pacing and rider safety.
Can I use a gravel bike?
We don’t allow gravel bikes on our group rides to ensure consistent pacing and rider safety. We do however, have a Mountain Biking and Gravel Biking Whatsapp group as part of our LDN RIDERS community - dedicated to members who are passionate about off-road cycling!
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Drop us a line at hello@ldnriders.com or sign up for a Free Taster Sessions and come meet the crew.
