Knowledge is Power
…leg power!
If you’re new to cycling, or simply new to organised charity rides, you may be a little daunted by the prospect of a Virtual Ride that will take you further than you’ve been before. Don’t worry, we’ve collected a load of great resources together to help you out.
Route Mapping
Strava – Lets you create routes to follow in addition to tracking where you have been.
MapMyRide – Plan routes, track activities, log your food.
Google Maps – Includes cycling as an option when getting directions.
Cyclestreets.net – UK-based route planner with turn-by-turn maps
Bike Route Toaster – Create courses, plan rides.
GPSies – View and download GPS tracks.
Open Cycle Map – Limited route planning, but all the bike-friendly tracks.
Cafe Network (UK only) – Make sure your route contains a bike-friendly cafe for the all-important energy-boosting cake!
Training
CTC – Prepare for your first charity ride – Great overview of all you need to consider before your first ride
British Cycling Training Plans – Cycle-specific training plans for beginners and beyond
BHF Cycling Training Plans – Including downloadable PDFs
Fuelling your bike ride – What to eat before and during your Virtual Ride
Century Bike Rides – Great training tips for those contemplating their first 100 mile ride
Groups
Keen to ride, but not by yourself? Here are some resources to help you find, or create, a group to ride with:
Ride Social – Find a social group ride near you (UK only)
British Cycling Clubs – Find a local club affiliated to British Cycling (many will cater for novices)
Accessories
We try out lots of cycling kit in the course of organising our rides. Here are some items that we think you might find useful when embarking on your charity endeavour…
