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Showing posts from August, 2026

Croxley Green to Bea's Cafe

  Ride type: Guided Ride Ride suitability: Challenging Ride title: Croxley Green to Bea's Cafe  Start Postcode: WD3 3DY Elevation: GPX reference: Komoot Route GPX File Introduce your route: This ride is suitable for experienced riders who can maintain an overall average speed of 10 mph over undulating terrain. We have a policy of leaving no rider behind so if anyone is struggling we will adjust the speed and take rest stops if necessary. If you have questions or concerns speak to the Ride Leader or contact them before the ride. We ask that you read the full details of the ride including the distance and terrain to ensure the ride will be enjoyable for you. With a 10:15 start you could be back for 15:15 if stops are limited and you maintain a 10 mph average.  Kind of roads you'll be riding: We will use roads on this route with hills and short sections of main road with fast moving traffic. Stops on the way: We stop for drinks and snacks at Bea's Cafe on...

Improve your Cycling - Twelve Tips

If you are looking to improve your cycling skills here are Twelve Tips. As improving will mean different things to different people this is an eclectic list of resources to explore.  1. Explore different resources  One explanation of puncture repair may not be 100% clear to you so look at a few to get the full picture 2. Search engines If you have problems such as the rear wheel popping up when you stop suddenly do a web search and explore braking 3. Ask your cycle group buddies If you have questions or problems ask at the group ride coffee stop as people will be happy to help though bare in mind you will get many answers to the same question  4. Transport for London (TfL)  The TfL website is suitable for those wanting to get out on the road with online learning and videos plus links to other guides such as puncture repair https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/cycling/cycle-skills 5. Cycling UK Cycling UK have a great website you can use to build your cycling knowledg...

Cycling in Harrow - Poster

Cycling in Harrow 🚲 Can't ride and looking for lessons? Harrow Cycle Hub offer lessons. Find out more at:  https://www.harrowcyclehub.org/ 🚲 Haven't cycled in a while? Can you pedal, balance and brake, but are a bit nervous about going out on the road? Or perhaps you’ve had a break and are a bit rusty. There are Beginner Bike Rides just for you. They usually start from Kenton Recreation Ground each Saturday at 2pm. To book your place use the Let's Ride website. 🚲 Looking to cycle in a group? There are lots of organised rides available on the Let's Ride website. They are all led by a qualified ride leader. 🚲 What is Let's Ride? To be the first to know what rides are available: Sign up to Let's Ride https://www.letsride.co.uk/ Join the Breeze Harrow group (women only) https://www.letsride.co.uk/groups/breeze-harrow-1 Join the Harrow Cycle Hub group (mixed) https://www.letsride.co.uk/groups/harrow-cycle-hub 🚲 Need Help? Email:  rides@harrowcyclehub.org   ...

Using Your Bike’s Gears; Twelve Tips

12 Tips & Tricks for Using Your Bike’s Gears Learn What Your Gears Actually Do Your gears make pedalling easier or harder. Lower gears help you climb hills, while higher gears help you travel faster on flatter or downhill sections. Change Gear Before You Need To If you can see a hill ahead, change to an easier gear before the climb gets steep. Changing early is much easier than trying to change while struggling. Use an Easy Gear to Start When setting off, especially from a junction or traffic light, use a relatively easy gear. It makes getting moving smoother and puts less strain on your legs. Don’t Wait Until Your Legs Are Struggling If your legs are turning slowly and you are pushing hard on the pedals, you probably need an easier gear. Change down before you become exhausted. Spinning Is Better Than Grinding Try to keep your pedals turning at a comfortable, fairly quick rhythm rather than pushing very hard with each pedal stroke. This is easier on your legs and knees...

How to fit tyres

With the introduction of tubeless tyres- and the popularity of very puncture resistant tyres - there is a trend towards a tighter tyre fit which is causing some people difficulty.  Let's not talk about the special tools that have been created to respond to this trend but get to the basics of tyre fitting. Some of the tips and steps may be new to you. If this doesn't work it's time to consider a different rim/tyre combination and your bike shop will be able to advise you. This may mean buying new wheels or - if you have expensive hubs - just buying new rims and having your wheel rebuilt around those valuable hubs. In a new fun game we are playing "Spot the deliberate AI mistake"! 1. Practice, practice, practice  Not all of the steps will be achievable on a ride but may offer some solace if you are struggling in the cold at the side of the road. Practice at home so you are confident out on the road. 2. Relax If you have just brought a new folding tyre ho...

Route Catalogue

🚲 Find a Route Search the Cycle Route Catalogue. Loading the route catalogue... Distance Any distance Less than 10 miles 6–15 miles — Improver 10–25 miles 25–40 miles Above 40 miles Ride Level Any level Easygoing Steady Challenging Mountain Bike Start Any start Collection / Tag Any collection / tag Family Friendly Any Yes No Race Bike Any Yes No Find Routes Reset

Rides Programme: Mission, Challenges and Roadmap

Rides Programme: Mission, Challenges and Roadmap Introduction  This Rides Programme - though tailored to Harrow - would be applicable to any organisation wishing to develop a rides programme. If the stages appear over complicated then view the text items as a "to do" list easily ticked off. Though described as challenges, most of the "to do" list is in hand and becomes a check list to ensure we are on track. In no way should a Ride Programme try to dictate all ride schedules as that will be determined naturally by ride leader availability and their knowledge of rider preferences; Beginner Bike Rides and mass events are the exceptions. In no way should the text be interpreted as "we don't think this is happening" read it as a checklist and prompts for improvement.  1. Our Mission Our mission is to develop a confident, supported and sustainable team of volunteer ride leaders who can provide a welcoming, safe and varied programme of cycling op...

Day out: Brighton

This destination ride takes us to Brighton on a route derived from one provided by cycle.travel The Coulsdon South start avoids the London roads and the route uses country lanes and two short sections of off-road. As it is tricky getting to Coulsdon South on a weekday the weekend is recommended. The route does include the famous Ditchling Beacon hill towards the end so keep something in reserve. Having arrived at Brighton Pier turn right and follow the coast as a well earned bonus as this will naturally take you onto Boundary Road and a return to the station. A 9.30am start from Coulsdon South gets you to Brighton for 4pm if you keep moving and don't linger too long over coffee though work out timings for the group you are taking. Ride type: Guided Ride  Ride suitability: Local Rides Challenging Ride title: Day out: Brighton  Start Postcode: CR5 3EA Elevation: GPX references: Farringdon station to London Bridge station (15 minutes) Komoot Route   GPX F...

Bike Skills – Twelve Tips

Bike Skills – Twelve Tips Here are some basic bike skills you probably knew but may have forgotten. If the tips don't have enough information then use a search engine to explore. These twelve items represent the areas other cyclists ask about. 1. Learn to Ride in a Straight Line Being able to ride smoothly and predictably is one of the most useful cycling skills. Look ahead rather than constantly watching your front wheel, relax your shoulders and keep a light grip on the handlebars. Try to maintain a steady line while pedalling smoothly. Avoid sudden movements unless you need to avoid a hazard. Practising on a quiet, flat road or traffic-free path can help you build confidence. Once you are comfortable riding straight, many other cycling skills become much easier. 2. Learn How to Use Your Brakes Good braking is about being smooth and controlled rather than simply grabbing the levers. Use both brakes together, applying pressure progressively. The fro...

Bike Ride Etiquette – Twelve Tips

Bike Ride Etiquette – Twelve Tips 1. Read and Follow the Ride Instructions Every organised ride is likely to have some instructions about the route, meeting point, distance, speed, facilities and what to bring. Please take a few minutes to read them before setting off. They are there to help you decide whether the ride is suitable for you and to help the leader organise the day. If something isn't clear, ask beforehand rather than trying to sort it out as the ride begins. A little preparation makes things easier for everyone. 2. Arrive Early and Ready to Ride Please arrive at the advertised meeting time rather than the advertised ride start time. Allowing 10–15 minutes gives everyone time for introductions, signing in, bike checks and the ride briefing. It also gives you a chance to settle in and meet other riders. The ride leader may have a lot to organise before setting off, so arriving on time helps the whole group get away smoothly. Nobody minds waiting for a ge...

Beginner Bike Rides

Introduction   If you are interested in leading or participating in rides aimed at beginners or those returning to cycling then you're in the right place. The headings are aimed at ride leaders who need this information to put on a ride.   Ride type: Guided Ride Ride suitability: Local Rides Steady 8+ [Consider what age groups you want to attend] Ride title: Beginner Bike Ride from Kenton GPX Route: It is suggested you use the Classic but be ready to use other routes depending on the participants and weather on the day. Classic ; a five-mile circular route.  - GPX File   Classic Plus ; an eight-mile circular route that extends the Classic route  - GPX File   Options ; a five-mile out and back with options for individuals to take a break and do less distance. - GPX File   Three Miles ; a three-mile route route starting with a lap of the park then a loop the other side of the subway avoiding the Kenton Road.   - GPX File     Two Loop...

Kenton to Canons Park via seven parks

Ride type: Guided Ride Ride suitability: Local Rides Steady  Ride title: Kenton to Canons Park via seven parks Start Postcode: HA3 8AX Elevation: GPX reference: Komoot route GPX File Introduce your route: New riders are especially welcome. We have a policy of leaving no rider behind so if anyone is struggling we will adjust the speed and take rest stops if necessary. If you have questions or concerns speak to the Ride Leader or contact them before the ride. We ask that you read the full details of the ride including the distance and terrain to ensure the ride will be enjoyable for you.  Kind of roads you'll be riding: We will use a mix of roads and cycle paths on this relatively flat route which does involve crossing a main road with fast moving traffic. Stops on the way: We stop for drinks and snacks at the excellent Liam's café in Canons Park. What to bring: Please check your bike at home before the ride leaving yourself time to remedy any issues such as brake ad...

Headstone Manor to Eastcote House

     Ride type: Guided Ride  Ride suitability: Local Rides Steady Ride title: Headstone Manor to Eastcote Start Postcode: HA2 6PX Elevation: GPX reference: Komoot route GPX File  Introduce your route: New riders are especially welcome. We have a policy of leaving no rider behind so if anyone is struggling we will adjust the speed and take rest stops if necessary. If you have questions or concerns speak to the Ride Leader or contact them before the ride. We ask that you read the full details of the ride including the distance and terrain to ensure the ride will be enjoyable for you.  Kind of roads you'll be riding: We will use a mix of roads and cycle paths on this relatively flat route. Stops on the way: We stop for drinks and snacks at the excellent Eastcote House and Gardens café.  What to bring: Please check your bike at home before the ride leaving yourself time to remedy any issues such as brake adjustments and repairing punctures. Bri...

Harrow to the White Horse pub

    Ride type: Guided Ride  Ride suitability: Local Rides Steady Ride title: Harrow to the White Horse pub Start Postcode: HA1 4QW Elevation: GPX reference: Komoot route GPX File  Introduce your route: New riders are especially welcome. We have a policy of leaving no rider behind so if anyone is struggling we will adjust the speed and take rest stops if necessary. If you have questions or concerns speak to the Ride Leader or contact them before the ride. We ask that you read the full details of the ride including the distance and terrain to ensure the ride will be enjoyable for you.  Kind of roads you'll be riding: We will use a mix of roads and cycle paths on this relatively flat route. Stops on the way: We stop for drinks and snacks at the White Horse pub. What to bring: Please check your bike at home before the ride leaving yourself time to remedy any issues such as brake adjustments and repairing punctures. Bring a spare inner tube of the correct...

Harrow to Eastcote and Daisy's

   Ride type: Guided Ride  Ride suitability: Local Rides Steady Ride title: Harrow to Eastcote and Daisy's Start Postcode: HA1 4QW Elevation: GPX reference: Komoot route GPX File  Introduce your route: New riders are especially welcome. We have a policy of leaving no rider behind so if anyone is struggling we will adjust the speed and take rest stops if necessary. If you have questions or concerns speak to the Ride Leader or contact them before the ride. We ask that you read the full details of the ride including the distance and terrain to ensure the ride will be enjoyable for you.  Kind of roads you'll be riding: We will use a mix of roads and cycle paths on this relatively flat route. Stops on the way: We stop for drinks and snacks at the excellent Daisy's café.  What to bring: Please check your bike at home before the ride leaving yourself time to remedy any issues such as brake adjustments and repairing punctures. Bring a spare inner tube o...

Short confidence-building rides

Here are a number of intermediate rides designed to allow riders to build confidence, meet other riders, have fun, or just fit in a shorter ride on a busy day. They are mostly relatively flat, include a café or pub stop and though some might include busy roads or a climb on Harrow-on-the-Hill they will be suitable for those wanting to go beyond a five-mile beginner ride. If you are posting this on Let's Ride (LR) you could ask the ride leader to copy and reassign ownership of their copied ride to you to save on the effort of cut and pasting text. Harrow to Eastcote and Daisy's (9 miles) LR Harrow to the White Horse pub  (10 miles) Headstone Manor to Eastcote  (10 miles) Kenton to Canons Park via seven parks  (10 miles) Harrow to the Tasty Bean Café  (14 miles) If you are looking for something a little shorter then the Beginner Bike Rides are great and you could do a couple in one session to build your riding stamina. You can use these with your f...

Start Locations

Introduction  Start locations need to be suitable for the number of bikes and have space for the briefing and bike checks.  Pinner (Pinner Village Gardens) We will meet by one of the entrances to Pinner Village Gardens (PVG). Please arrive 10 minutes before the start time to ensure a prompt departure. We meet at the entrance nearest the roundabout where Rayners Lane meets Marsh Road. Postcode HA5 5NS. what3words ///ranges.tame.boot Pinner (Pinner Memorial Park) We will meet by the aviary near the pond in Pinner Memorial Gardens, next to Daisy's Cafe. Please arrive 10 minutes before the start time to ensure a prompt departure. The postcode is HA5 1AF. what3words ///these.older.flips Headstone Manor Park  We meet outside the Moat Cafe in Headstone Manor Recreation Ground, by the museum entrance. The postcode is HA2 6PX.  Harrow We will meet by the Seva Park Café in the middle of Harrow Recreation Ground. Please arrive 10 minutes before the start time t...

Harrow to Elstree Aerodrome

   Ride type: Guided Ride  Ride suitability: Local Rides Challenging Ride title: Harrow to Elstree Aerodrome  Start Postcode: HA1 4QW Elevation: GPX reference: Komoot route GPX File Alternative GPX File from Kenton  Introduce your route: New riders are especially welcome. We have a policy of leaving no rider behind so if anyone is struggling we will adjust the speed and take rest stops if necessary. If you have questions or concerns speak to the Ride Leader or contact them before the ride. We ask that you read the full details of the ride including the distance and terrain to ensure the ride will be enjoyable for you.  Kind of roads you'll be riding: We will use a mix of roads and cycle paths on this hilly route which does have short sections of main road with fast moving traffic.  Stops on the way: We stop for drinks and snacks at the excellent Aerodrome cafe.  What to bring: Please check your bike at home before the ride leaving you...