WELCOME TO SOUTHDOWN VELO GATEWAY
What is it?
SDV Gateway is a slower ride, following the flattest SDV club route, aimed at introducing people to Club cycling. We are now running Gateway as an accompanied ride with an experienced rider. This can be for an individual or a small group. No one will be dropped. SDV Gateway rides will be arranged individually.
Who is it for?
Anyone who wants to cycle with SDV but is not sure if they are ready for the faster Club ride.
It is particularly designed to encourage women, anyone who wants to improve their fitness, or those returning from injury or illness. We are a cycling club so we expect a minimum fitness level of riding on the flat around 13-14mph. You will quickly build the confidence to ride in a group. SDV Gateway would particularly suit British Cycling Breeze Women riders who are ready for their next challenge.
Any age from 16 to 100 is welcome!
How far?
The ride will start at 10am at Lavant school although we will ride at the pace of the new rider rather than with the main club ride. It will be a flat 18-mile ride to our coffee stop where you can meet the other SDV Club riders and then 10 miles back in to Chichester.
What do I need?
A roadworthy road or gravel bike, suitable cycle clothing, spare inner tube and pump, water bottle, and money/ card for coffee and cake at the coffee stop. E road or E gravel bikes are welcome.
Folding bikes, Dutch bikes, mountain bikes or anything with basket are NOT suitable as they will be too heavy and slow.
What next?
The intention is to grow the confidence and speed of our Gateway riders and work towards them joining the main club rides. We can continue to buddy you with an experienced club rider as necessary and eventually try one of the slightly longer and steeper variations of the club ride. Once you know the routes you can practise on your own too!
Do I have to join SDV?
We are happy for you to come along and try out a ride to see if the club is right for you. We hope you will become a regular rider and want to join the club. The annual membership fee is great value at £25 and includes a discount on your first purchase of club kit.
What else
We regularly run other activities such as training evenings including basic mechanics and bike fitting plus track training days. The Club also hold social events two or three times a year. Keep an eye on our socials for updates.
What if I’m too slow?
No one will be left behind! Your ride leader will talk to you after the ride to discuss the options. You can practise on your own until you get fitter and stronger and or we can put you in touch with local groups such as the British Cycling Breeze women riders.
We will look forward to seeing you when you are ready to try again.
