Frequently Asked Questions
How can I be kept informed of updates for Ride4aReason?
Will my entry be confirmed?
- Yes, we confirm all entries in advance.
What time can I start?
- The First riders can leave the HQ at 08:00 - the earlier you start the better. The HQ opens at 07:45. The last rider will leave at 09:30.
What time will the HQ close?
- The HQ will close at 16:30. You must sign back in by this time to have completed the route.
Can I register in advance?
- Yes and you would well advised to. Pre-registered entrants get fast track registration so you'll be out on the road quicker. Follow the entry form link and download the form. For fast-track signing on, we need to receive your form by the 13th of June.
Can I enter on the day?
- Yes but you'll have to go through the sign-on and there could be a queue. It will be much quicker, faster to pre-register.
Do I need an expensive bike?
- No, but your bike does need to be in good working order.
Some of the lanes are rough, do I need a mountain bike?
- No. A road going bike with suitable tyres will be perfectly adequate.
- But some of the lanes have poor surfaces, with loose material so ride carefully, at a speed appropriate to the conditions.
How fit do I need to be?
- If you are unsure about whether you are fit enough, or could be fit enough in time for the event, or have a medical condition that could affect your performance on this event then you should consult your doctor before participating.
- If you don't cycle regularly or take reasonably vigorous regular exercise then you will need to put some preparation in ahead of this event. There will be a series of short articles posted on this website. Consult these and, if in doubt, consult your doctor.
Is there an emergency contact number at the HQ?
- If you need to call for an ambulance or need the Police then call 999 first. There will be an emergency number at the HQ for other emergencies.
- The HQ emergency number will be on the instructions given to you on the day.
How long will it take?
- It depends on fast you pedal and, therefore, on how fit you are. We recommend that you start early. We also recommend that you only do the 60 mile route if you are fit and well equipped - that means you probably cycle reasonably often already.
Will the route be marshalled?
- Yes, there will be some Verulam CC marshals but not at every junction. We have placed marshals where there is a risk from traffic.
- Marshals are in place only to indicate direction: they are prohibited by law to direct or stop the traffic except in an emergency. It is your responsibility to ride safely at all times and obey the Highway Code.
Will we be given a map?
- You will be given a diagram of the route and instructions. Although the route will be comprehensively signed, we recommend that you carry a copy of Ordinance Survey Landranger 166; this covers both routes in their entirety.
Will there be cars on the road?
- Yes. The roads are not being closed to traffic for this event. You must obey the Highway Code at all times and ride safely for the conditions. This event will take you along some narrow, twisty lanes so riding carefully, and being ready to react to horses or oncoming vehicles is important.
Follow this link for the Highway Code online.
Should we ride in single file?
- Yes, except when overtaking.
What should I wear?
- You must wear a cycling helmet.
- You should wear bright clothing that is easily seen - hi-viz clothing is best.
- Cycling shorts are a good idea on a ride of this length!
What must I carry with me?
- A helmet.
- A pump and means of fixing a puncture.
Is there parking at the HQ?
- Yes there is ample parking. Please note that if you are driving along the approach road to the Pavilion there will be cyclists coming and going so obey the speed limit.
Can children do the ride?
- Children over 12 on the day can participate provided they are accompanied by a responsible adult. The adult must sign the waiver and the child must be entered for the event in their own right.
Do the checkpoints close after a certain amount of time?
- Yes, although we have allocated a generous amount of time for you to reach each checkpoint. We'll advise you of the closing times in the material we give you on the day.
How can I ask a question?