We are a small local club of all ability cyclists, who regularly cycle on Wednesdays and weekends, in various groups for various distances and speeds from Barnt Green Sports Club. A requirement of being based at the Sports Club is individuals having BG Sports Club Membership. This gives access to the club, its bar, social and changing areas.
We don’t compete but we do cycle as groups in charity rides, bikeathons and endurance challenges. Most of all we enjoy rehydrating at local watering holes.
New Chaingang Members
If you are interested in joining the Chaingang, we ask that people attend an Intro Rides before attending their first club session.
We do this for safety reasons – to ensure new members are aware of our ‘safe group riding protocols’ and insurance requirements, along with checking over their bikes and answering ‘getting started’ questions.
Wed – Chaingang – Club Night
We now have more ride leaders available – so looking again to provide our 5 Ride Groups – ranging from Gp 1 shorter and slower ride, to Gp 5 faster and longer ride.
There should be a ride to suit all and of course, all followed by a drink in the bar. If not sure of groups to start out in – we will be helping CHG’s with this if not sure.
Weekend Ride Programme
We have tweaked the weekend programme, in an effort to get more out on their bikes:
- Sat – 9:00am opportunities for slightly longer rides and these are arranged on a weekly basis. These are announced on Facebook and via Club emails.
Usually two or three groups out to suit a variety of levels.
Season start reminder for all Chaingang riders 2024
With the spring here, it’s timely to have a reminder on safe group riding with many returning after the winter break.
Key points to note are:
Roadworthy bike plus kit for punctures
Lights/hi vis as required for time of day/conditions
Highway Code awareness – road priorities & updates plus bike responsibility (lights/reflectors etc)
Concentration – Chaingang is a social club however concentration and group awareness are critical
Communication – be it hand signals or calling out, both important (cars/hazards/slowing & stopping), required up & down the group. If you are leaving the ride before the end – please let your ride/support ride leader know
Riding – never ride wide or more than 2 abreast – putting both yourself and the group at risk
Carrying enough water/fuel for rides especially as the weather warms up & we cover more miles – also looking out for your fellow riders
Reminder you are ultimately responsible for yourself, this includes third party cycling insurance
Group speeds (all averages)
Group 1 8mph-9.9mph
Group 2 10mph-11.9mph
Group 3 12mph-13.9mph
Group 4 14mph-15.9mph
Group 5 16mph-17.9mph
Finally please enjoy your Chaingang rides – we have a great summer ahead, so let’s all ride safely and look out for one another.
Steering Committee
Chaingang Riding Groups 2024
Group 5 – 30+ mile ride / Av 16-17.9 mph
Oversight Ride Leader – Mike Dickenson
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Group 4 – 25-30 mile ride / Av 14 – 15.9mph
Oversight Ride Leader – Simon Stanley
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Group 3 – 20-25 mile ride / Av 12 – 13.9 mph
Oversight Ride Leader – Peter Bennett
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Group 2 – 15-20 mile ride / Av 10-11.9mph
Oversight Ride Leader – Vacant
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Group 1 – > 15 mile ride / Av 8 -9.9 mph
Oversight Ride Leader – Barry Doherty
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We advise for your own safety and enjoyment, not going-up-a-group unless agreed with run and ride leaders. The list indicates progression through Groups 1 > 5, including average speeds and distances at main club sessions and are indicative of a normal – not unduly flat or hilly – route. But routes and terrain can vary.
Our volunteer Run and Ride Leaders try to ensure your runs and rides are safe, enjoyable and paced such that groups can start and finish together.
Please adhere to their advice and ensure they are notified if you have a problem, feel unwell or intend leaving the group early.
Runners and Riders should also adhere to Chuggers & Chaingang Group Running and Riding Protocols.