Ladies Beginner Rides become INTERMEDIATE in August

2012 Ladies Rides

Would you like to ride your bike more often but are concerned about safety on the road, how to work those #%@$(^ gears, or afraid you'll get a flat tire?  Beginning in April and continuing through July, we'll host a Ladies Only Beginner Ride.  In August, we'll close out the summer riding season by graduating the Ladies Ride from beginner to INTERMEDIATE level. 

We'll cover a number of bike related topics including helmet fitting, rules of the road, and equipment/gear over the summer ride series. Post ride there will be plenty of time for Q&A, social networking, and occasional no host dinner at a nearby restaurant. Start locations may vary occasionally to keep the routes fresh and add challenging hills as the riders progress.  Hope to see you Tuesday's at 5:45 PM!

1. How long are the beginner rides?

   Rides are from 10 - 12 miles to start and will get longer as daylight allows. As the rider's speed progresses the distance will increase to up to 23 miles.

2. What do I need to bring with me?

   At a minimum, bring your bike in good working order, a helmet, and a bottle of water or sports drink. You might also consider bringing a small snack (an energy bar, a small PB sandwich, or a candy bar). For your comfort, we also recommend you wear cycling gloves and have front and/or rear lights for your bike.

3. How fast will we be riding?

   Our usual pace at the beginning of the season is 12 - 14 miles per hour with the goal of increasing the average pace to 15 - 18 mph by the end of the season.

4. Is there a fee? Is membership in the club required?

   No.  All VBC rides are free with the exception of the Ride Around Clark County. You do not have to be a club member and there is no requirement that you plan to join the club.

5. What kind of bike should I bring/ride?

   Any bike in good working order is fine for these rides.

6. Where do we ride?

   Primarily the rides are on city streets, in bike lanes, and on bike paths. We do not (intentionally) go off road or onto dirt trails. The starting location of the ride and the routes will change periodically to allow the riders some new scenery and new challenges on which to hone their skills.

7. When do the rides start?

   Ladies beginner rides are every Tuesday evening at 5:45 PM and start in April and continue through July. Intermediate level rides continue in August. Check the club newsletter or the website ride calendar for starting locations.

Between 5:45 PM and 6:00 PM ride leaders will review bike safety and the rules of the road. We will outline the route for the evening and do a quick check on the bikes. If needed, we pump up tires and fit helmets. Wheels roll at 6:00 PM.  During and after the ride we will discuss various cycling topics including gear, clothing, riding techniques, bike maintenance, and nutrition. If needed, we can also call in mechanical support during or after the ride for minor bicycle maintenance.

Riding a bike on the road can be scary. We attempt to take the fear out of the experience by supporting the group with at least two experienced ride leaders, provide good routes, and promise to never leave a rider behind. By riding with lady coaches and other women new to the sport, we hope to help each rider identify their goals and to reach them. We’d love to have you join us.