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We have tried to list here answers for the questions we are often asked about the club and cycling around West Somerset.
If you have any other questions please Contact Us.
What type of bike do I need?
Any sort of road or mountain bike will do to start with. Mountain bikes tend to be heavier, especially if they have suspension, which makes them less than ideal for road use, but many of our members first came out on mountain bikes. A good range of gears is useful, to make hills easier. A three speed town bike would not generally be suitable.
Club members can advise on suitable bikes, and may be able to offer the temporary
loan of a bike to help you decide on the ideal bike.
The CTC (Cyclists Touring Club)
website includes a detailed section discussing the different types of bikes available.
Whatever bike you bring, it should be in a good state of repair. In particular please check:
* lights and reflectors work and are kept clean
* tyres are in good condition and inflated to the pressure shown on the tyre
* gears are working correctly
* the chain is properly adjusted and oiled
* the saddle and handlebars are adjusted to the correct height
* your brakes are efficient
For more advice on safe cycling please see the DirectGov Cycling Safety page.
I need help maintaining/repairing my bike.
We have a number of very experienced cyclists in the club who are happy to share their expertise regarding bike maintenance and repair.
Do I need to wear a cycle helmet?
Helmets are not compulsory for club rides, but most members do wear them and consider this a wise precaution. Any decent cycling shop would be able to advise you on suitable helmets. See our Links page for details of local and online shops.
Am I fit enough?
If you have any medical problems it may be worth taking advice before starting on any form of exercise. In general, cycling is an excellent form of exercise. It is a low impact activity and does not damage joints in the way that running can. It is good for the heart, increases muscle strength and can help with losing weight. Regular exercise can also help reduce stress and depression.
If you are a new rider it would be best to try a ride with the slower group initially, to get a feel for your own fitness and the roads around Minehead.
Where and when do we meet for rides?
We meet every Sunday at 9:30am by the entrance to the Minehead Barbarians Rugby Club. See our Rides page for further details.
What should I wear?
For shorter rides, in warm weather, loose fitting shorts and a simple T-shirt would be suitable.
Many of our members wear ‘proper’ cycling clothing including padded Lycra shorts. These are much more comfortable on longer rides. See the Links page for details of retailers who can supply cycling clothing.
Isn’t it a bit hilly for cycling around here?
Exmoor has some very big hills, but there are easier routes which avoid too many climbs. As long as your bike has a reasonable range of gears, and you take your time, you will be surprised how far you can go.
Can I come in by car?
Some of our members live too far away from our meeting place at the Rugby Club to be able to cycle in on Sunday and do drive in with their bikes in the car. Limited parking is available in the Rugby Club car park. See our Rides page for more details.
How much does it cost to join Minehead Cycling Club?
Membership is currently £8 a year. Please email Steve Wawman for more details.
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