Tag: cycling

Couch to 50k

Posted on by Web Editor

Planning continues across Spokes, NRC and Velo for the support programme to help people (18+) get back into or start cycling again. With support and encouragement to get them to a place where they can join in with any of the cycling groups regular rides, or just have more confidence and skills to cycle on their own.

We aim to have the programme ready early next year, but if you are interested or know someone who would benefit from such a programme (e.g. a non-cycling partner or friend) then please let me, William, know (email: events@westberkshirespokes.org)

Spokes Christmas 2024

Posted on by Web Editor

Earlier this month we had our Spokes Christmas meal, which is open to all members. Unfortunately we had several last minute cancellations, so they were missed along with all those not able to attend for other reasons. The Hare and Hounds Newbury was the venue for the event, and it was a great evening, although my wife (non-cyclist) hinted she may not come along next year… although I am sure we did talk about more than cycling!

I enjoyed my menu choices, although we did feel for Rob, whose vegetarian portions for the main meal and (cheese) dessert seemed a little mean. We had a little “fun” paying the bill at the end… the process in the Newbury last year seemed a lot smoother. Glad, this year, I remembered to get a photo of the group.

Merry Christmas to you all, safe cycling, and hope to see you in 2025.

Spokes’ Led Rides: R85A – Newbury to Hampstead Norreys

Starting from – Outside Lloyds Bank, RG14 5BQ

This 30.6 mile ride is open for anyone to join.

Newbury Circular – Cold Ash, Ashampstead, Hampstead Norreys (Café, Greenfest?), Chievely, Winterbourne

General ride guidance:
– Spokes rides are for people wanting a balance between a chance to be sociable whilst covering the miles in a reasonable time.
– We set off promptly at 09:30, so please arrive a few minutes early (particularly if you have not ridden with us before).
– We usually stop at a cafe (about halfway round), so please bring a card and money if you would like to buy some refreshments.
– Depending on the number of available ride leaders and the number of riders we may split up into several groups.
– Most routes are fully tarmacked, however we do make use of dedicated cycle routes and a few routes include short off-road sections (e.g. crossing Greenham common).
– We re-group at the top of any climb, and everyone gets a breather
– Rides are graded either green, blue, red or black. The first few rides of the year are easier (so greens and blues), and have some more challenging ones (reds and blacks) during the Summer.

Spokes has graded this as a red ride, quite challenging for most.