Ride Types
Participants must be members of the Silver Spokes Cycling Club to take part in all rides except Try-out Rides.
Recreational
Suitable for: New road cyclists or those who haven’t done group riding before.
Speeds: 20 - 25 km/hr.
Distance/Time: 35 - 40 km, 1.5 - 2 hrs.
Other: Everyone rides together, frequent stops, slow speeds up hills. There will be coaching in group riding skills. Speed is strictly controlled to match the capability of participants. It is strongly recommended that participants have a road bike for these rides.capability of participants. It is strongly recommended that participants have a road bike for these rides.
Casual
Suitable for: Advanced beginners, or more experienced cyclists looking for an “easier” ride
Speeds: 24 - 28 km/hr.
Distance/Time: 45 - 55 km, 2 hrs.
Other: Must be comfortable riding in a group. Occasional stops, regroup at top of all hills. Group will stop and help for mechanical problems and flat tires.
Touring
Suitable for: Experienced cyclists who are comfortable at higher speeds in a group
Speeds: 26 - 32 km/hr.
Distance/Time: 50 - 60 km, 2 hrs.
Other: “No drop” rides, but riders are expected to keep up. Occasional stops. Group will stop and help for mechanical problems and flat tires
Sportif
Suitable for: Very fit and experienced cyclists comfortable riding at high speeds for long distances
Speeds: 32 - 40+ km/hr.
Distance/Time: 60 - 70 km, 2+ hrs.
Other: Everyone is expected to take a turn on the front. If you can’t keep up, you may be dropped! Must be able to fix your own flats and mechanical problems.
Try-Out Rides
These rides are primarily intended to give beginner road riders an opportunity to try riding in a group. Some basic pre-ride instruction will be given and the ride pace and distance will be matched to the beginners’ capabilities. More experienced riders are also welcome to join these rides to meet Silver Spokes members before deciding whether to join the club.
These rides will be carried out in conjunction with the Recreational Rides. Non-members must register in advance and complete a liability waiver form. Non-members may only participate in two Try-out Rides before joining the club.
To see the complete schedule of Try Out Rides, please visit the Ride Schedule page. The link to the online waiver can also be found there.
Special Event Rides
For Special Rides, such as the Canada Day Ride, ride organizers may set up more than one group to accommodate different levels of riders. Participants will be expected to choose the group which matches their capabilities; however, because of the distances and speeds, these rides would typically not be suitable for beginners.