Ashwell is lucky to be positioned with instant access to some of the quietest, most scenic roads in the country. For many members, the Club Runs that travel these lanes are the focus of the Club. CC Ashwell prides itself on organising weekly club rides to suit all abilities, from beginner through to more serious racers. All rides aim to ensure the right pace is maintained, suitable for all.
Sundays
Steady rides…
Every Sunday morning we always put out steady club runs at 9am and 9:30am. The 9am steady ride is slightly less distance and speed than the 9:30am ride. Both rides see that no one is left behind.
And something faster…
Also at 9am, there are riders wanting a faster, longer ride - so there is a 'medium-fast' ride. Sometimes, this group divides into a medium and fast group as the ride progresses. As much as this ride is social and the group looks out for one another, there is also a degree of self-sufficiency required for this ride. The group can splinter quickly. The general ethos for a medium/fast ride is to maybe give it a go even if you're unsure, hide in the pack - and if you can't hold on all the way - have another go next week! It's a great way to boost your training and fitness.
Check out the forum for details on upcoming routes. Later the rides try and meet back again in Ashwell, often to chat about their rides over coffee at The Three Tuns.
Saturdays
There is a regular Saturday morning Club Run too, 9:30am. For more information about the Saturday Club Runs, contact David, email david@ccashwell.com
On the first Saturday of every month, there is also an Introduction Ride - a road ride option to sample a Club ride and invite those unsure about their fitness or about riding in a group. Or for any member looking for a very leisurely ride. For more information, see our Membership page.
Wednesdays
There is a regular Club Run every Wednesday morning, 9:30am.
Rides
To guide your choice – approximate distances and average speeds for each ride are listed below [depending on size of group, weather conditions, season, route and ride intensity]. For a more detailed review of our up and coming rides please see our ever-growing list of digitally, downloadable mapped rides.
| Ride | Distance (miles) | Average speed (mph) |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction Rides | 12-25 | 12-14 |
| Saturday Club Run | 30-40 | 15-16 |
| Sunday 9am Steady Club Run | 35-45 | 15-17 |
| Sunday 9am Medium/Fast Club Run | 60-100 | 17+ |
| Sunday 9:30am Steady Club Run | 50 | 17 |
| Wednesday 9:30am Club Run | 35-40 | 15-17 |
| Ride | Times & meeting point |
|---|---|
| Saturday Club run and Introduction rides |
9:30am – Three Tuns pub car park, Ashwell SG7 5NL map |
| All Sunday rides |
9am/9:30am – Three Tuns pub car park, Ashwell SG7 5NL map |
| Wednesday | 9.30am – 32 Hodwell, Ashwell SG7 5QQ map |
For more general information about any Club ride, please contact Geoff, email geoff@ccashwell.com or call 01462 742 837. Or, alternatively, pop along to our monthly Club night held on the first Tuesday of each month at the Three Tuns pub, High Street, Ashwell from about 8pm.
Summer chain gangs
In the lighter months, roughly May to September, the club organizes 'chain gang' rides every Tuesday evening. There is often one group leaving the Three Tuns at 7.30pm for 2 or 3 nine mile laps, at 22-25mph average. Check out the club forum for details.
Click here to see a little video of the chain gang in action.
Off-road cycling
CC Ashwell holds regular off-road training sessions and one-off rides around the local area, at various times throughout each year. Visit the forum for latest details. If you're interested in cyclo-cross, go to our Racing page for details on CC Ashwell's involvement with the Eastern Cyclo-Cross League.
Adult bike handling sessions
For those wanting to gain more confidence on their bike before joining one of the Club rides, there are occasional sessions for those who want a soft, relaxing way back into the saddle! Contactgeoff@ccashwell.com for details.
Being properly prepared for a ride
A road bike, in good working order and typically with drop handlebars and clip-in pedals is all you need. If you are considering buying a bike, perhaps get advice from our forum on this site for opinion?
Riders are expected to be safety aware and self-sufficient. Our suggestion is to take a pump, tyre levers, inner tube, a puncture repair kit and be able to deal with punctures and minor repairs while on rides. But don't worry if you don't know how to use them, the group will be able to help.
Drinks bottles and food/energy are also essential – always take more than you think you'll need, better safe than sorry.
In wet weather, mudguards and eyewear are advised. A mobile phone and a bit of cash can be useful too.
Wear appropriate clothing – especially padded shorts, gloves and helmet. For details on our high quality, special-priced club kit, visit our Membership page.
