In the hope of reducing confusion, the committee has updated the descriptions of our Sunday rides as follows:
Novice (AA)
An open invitation morning ride at an easy pace on quiet and flat minor roads; typically 18 to 25 miles to coffee, 35 to 40 miles round trip. Average speed will depend on attendees but is usually 9 to 12 mph
Steady (A)
Typically, 20 to 28 miles to coffee; probably with a few gentle climbs. Some riding experience is necessary. Expect 40-50 miles round trip if returning after coffee, 50 to 60 miles if staying out for the full day. Average speed 10 to 12 mph.
Moderate (B)
Experience of group riding is required. Serious hills are likely. Typically, 24 to 30 miles to coffee; 40-50 miles round trip if returning from coffee, 60 to 70 miles for the full day. Average speed 12 to 14 mph.
Endurance (C)
Like Moderate, but longer: usually over 80 miles with no short route home from coffee. Good stamina and food supplies are needed. Average speed 12 to 15mph. Check with the Captain for details.
Tempo
Like Moderate or Endurance, but faster, the route generally being longer and/or hillier, but often to the same coffee stop. Average speed 14 to 17 mph.
Fast (Training)
Rides are around 50 miles, lasting 3 to 3½ hours. . Riders need to be capable of riding through and off at 20+ mph in a close bunch. Average speed of about 18-20 mph, usually on A and B roads. These rides regroup after a climb but participants must be prepared to be dropped on the run in back to Gloucester over the last 5-10 miles, if it speeds up at the end of the ride. If the ride is split into groups to support mixed abilities anyone dropping out of the faster group may be picked up by the next one. They do not usually stop for coffee until the end of the ride.
For more details of our rides see https://www.gloscitycc.co.uk/which-ride/