Your entry to a RideIt! event includes all of the vital elements to make a brilliant day out on the bike.
We plan 3 or 4 fully way marked routes per ride so you can choose the distance that suits you. If you decide to change your route on the day, just remember to let us know at the end of the ride so that we can adjust your rider time.
| Fully way marked routes | FREE High5 energy drinks & Snacks | Garmin Hire GPS units |
| Waterproof maps | 3 or 4 route options | Car Parking |
| Free Gore Bike Wear® 'Try before you Buy' service | Onsite catering |
Evans Cycles RideIt! series is delighted to work in partnership with Gore Bike Wear ®
We run a ‘Try before you Buy’ service at our RideIt! events. This fantastic service enables you to try an item of Gore clothing on the ride and see how it perfoms for you.
Try before you Buy with Evans Cycles RideIt! and recieve an exclusive 10% discount voucher* for Gore Bike Wear ® in store. Take advantage of special at event offers, and buy the latest Gore Bike Wear ® at RideIt! events.
*Discount vouchers are issued on the day at the ‘Gore Try Before you Buy’ service counter. Vouchers can be redeemed in Evans Cycles stores only and apply to non-sale items.
Note:
If you have a problem on route we will always make every effort to drive out to meet you. We will either fix the problem there and then or shuttle you back to base in our sweeper van. Some of the routes have remote access so it might take us some time to reach you. We strongly advice you carry a basic tool kit when going for a ride. We sell essential tools and Special deals on inner tubes at events.
High5 are our 2012 Evans Cycles RideIt! series nutrition partner. They are providing free energy samples and drink at our events to help keep you hydrated and energized during your ride. Find out more about how High5 nutrition works here.
We supply FREE Garmin units for hire that are loaded with the route for the day. If you fancy seeing where you are cycling via satellite navigation, hire a GPS unit at an event.
At RideIt! events there is a ride for everyone. Whether you are a seasoned cycling pro or an amateur rider looking to get in to social riding, we offer different route lengths to choose from.
We know that cycling is a great way to spend quality time with the family and have fun outdoors. That is why we offer Fun route rides which are a little bit shorter for younger riders and parents to take part in RideIt!
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Route Options:
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Route Distances*
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Short
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15 miles
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Medium
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25 miles
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Long
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30 miles
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Sportive:
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Fun
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12 miles
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Short
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30 miles
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Medium
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60 miles
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Long
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90 miles
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*Distances are approximate and may vary slightly at each event.
Sportive:
Sportive Fun Route:
An introduction to road riding designed for the whole family to enjoy. It has minimal climbing and takes place on quieter roads.
Sportive Short Route:
The Short route is an ideal starting point for the casual rider or the commuter who wants to spend some leisure time on their bike. Hybrid bikes and Mountain bikes with slick tyres are welcome!
Sportive Medium Route:
The medium route provides a good workout in the saddle for the experienced cyclist. This is the perfect distance to integrate the ride into your training schedule and work your way up to the long distance route.
Sportive Long Route:
Designed to challenge riders, this 90-mile plus (70 miles for winter rides) route will test your fitness and stamina while providing an enjoyable day out with like-minded cyclists.
Mountain Bike:
Mountain Bike Short Route:
The Short route is designed for those who are new to Mountain biking or want to build up their fitness before tackling longer routes. The route involves climbing and descending including some challenging terrain and should usually take no more than 2 hours. Climbing is limited and riders will be able to ride most of the course, novice riders may need to dismount and walk their bike through some challenging sections.
Mountain Bike Medium Route:
This is our most popular route. It is designed for the riders that want to challenge themselves and spend a few hours in the saddle. The route is suitable for those with off-road experience and a reasonable level of fitness and normally takes between 3 to 5 hours. Mountain Bike Long Route:
Fancy a little bit more? The Long route adds another 5-8miles distance to the Medium route, which means you’ll be out in the countryside longer for more great riding. If you’ve entered the medium but are still feeling fresh at the split, go on and complete the Long route. Just remember to tell the guys at the finish!
The Short route is designed for those who are new to Mountain biking or want to build up their fitness before tackling longer routes. The route involves climbing and descending including some challenging terrain and should usually take no more than 2 hours. Climbing is limited and riders will be able to ride most of the course, novice riders may need to dismount and walk their bike through some challenging sections.
Mountain Bike Medium Route:
This is our most popular route. It is designed for the riders that want to challenge themselves and spend a few hours in the saddle. The route is suitable for those with off-road experience and a reasonable level of fitness and normally takes between 3 to 5 hours. Mountain Bike Long Route:
Fancy a little bit more? The Long route adds another 5-8miles distance to the Medium route, which means you’ll be out in the countryside longer for more great riding. If you’ve entered the medium but are still feeling fresh at the split, go on and complete the Long route. Just remember to tell the guys at the finish!
Night Rides:
Experience the exhilaration of off-road night riding with our Night Ride series at selected events over the winter. Starting after our usual daylight rides (between 3pm & 4pm) riders set off on the short (12-15 mile) route in the dwindling light of dusk and are soon plunging into darkness as they enter the woods. Follow the reflective arrows around the pre-marked course before returning to the event centre for a hot mug of tea.
Experience the exhilaration of off-road night riding with our Night Ride series at selected events over the winter. Starting after our usual daylight rides (between 3pm & 4pm) riders set off on the short (12-15 mile) route in the dwindling light of dusk and are soon plunging into darkness as they enter the woods. Follow the reflective arrows around the pre-marked course before returning to the event centre for a hot mug of tea.
The RideIt! events take place in a variety of locations throughout the UK with a diverse range of topography. To give riders a better idea of the amount of climbing involved we provide a rating for each event:
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Mountain Bike Climbing Guide:
A rating of 1 signifies a mostly flat ride with minimal climbing.
A rating of 4 signifies hilly routes with plenty of climbing.   |
 
Sportive Bike Climbing Guide:
A rating of 1 signifies a mostly flat ride with minimal climbing.
A rating of 4 signifies hilly routes with plenty of climbing. |
We have together the most common questions and answers about RideIt! here:
Do I need my own bike?
Yes.
What type of bike is suitable?
We recommend that you use a Mountain Bike for Off-road riding a they have been designed to handle bumpy terrain and take the impact that off road riding incurs’. The ride will be safer and more pleasurable for you as a result.
For the Sportive rides on tarmac you can ride the bike of your choice. However we strongly recommend a bike that is primarily designed for road use like a Road bike or Racer. Other bikes that might be suitable include sporty Hybrid Bikes, or Touring bikes.
I am a beginner, are these rides suitable for me?
Definitely! As long as you’re fit enough to complete the distance there is no reason why you can’t take part. As these rides are not races, there is a friendly atmosphere and people are willing to help you out if should you find you need it.
How many people enter the events?
How long is a piece of string? It all depends on lots of factors, weather, time of year event position etc. so numbers can vary between 100 and 1000.
How fit do I need to be?
Well, you should be able to ride the distance of the category that you are entering. Once you’ve done this for the first time you should be able to gauge if you’re fit enough to move on to the next length of ride. Simply put, start off small and move up as you get fitter. We don’t want you to overstretch yourself, have a bad day and not come back!
How old or young should I be?
There are no age restrictions for our rides but please see parental consent section below. All we ask is that you are physically and mentally fit to complete the particular ride you’ve entered.
For family events and Fun route rides we recommend that children can cycle independently or sit in a child seat. Any child under the age of 16 must attend the event with an accompanying adult who is over the age of 18. You know the ability of yourself and your children and are in the best position to decide if they can tackle the ride.
From 16 to 18 years old you will be allowed to cycle unaccompanied, providing that we have a signed parental consent form and emergency contact no for your parent/guardian.
Remember children enter RideIt! for FREE! Making it the perfect family day out!
What should I take with me?
We recommend you carry a small tool kit, water, food and spare clothing if there is the possibility of the weather changing.
We recommend you carry:
Remember, there will be hot drinks and food available at the event centre after your ride.
Is there a shop at the events?
We carry a small range of spares with us for you to purchase. This includes items such as tubes, puncture kits, pumps, Allen keys and a limited range of clothing. If there is anything specific for your bike, we won’t carry it, so please purchase it before you arrive.
Yes, we insist that all riders wear a helmet during our events. This is to comply with our responsibilities and ensure insurance coverage for the event.
Riders that do not have a helmet will be refused entry to the event on the day.
Do I need insurance or am I covered by Evans?
You do not need insurance to ride at our events but you are not covered by our policy either. Should you cause an accident or injury during our event you may be held personally responsible by the aggrieved party. It is therefore your choice if you wish to take out an individual insurance policy.
Can I get a map of the route before the day?
Routes will be confirmed a couple of days before the event once we have made sure there are no obstacles or dangers on the course that require us to alter it, pre-entered riders will be able to view the routes via GPX files supplied in a pre-event email sent the Thursday before the event.
How do I pay?
You can pay either by:
- Online via the website (via debit or credit card)
- On the day (via cash, credit or debit card)
Can I enter on the day?
Yes you can if we have spaces available. We accept cash, cheque and credit/debit cards. You will be charged an administration charge of £2.50 for on the day entry (adults only). Pre-enter to secure your place on the ride and save on entry fee.
What's your refund policy?
Event entry fees cannot be refunded or transferred under any circumstances.
How do I get to the Event Centre?
By Car Parking will be available at the event centres. Some locations have limited parking and you may need to park on the street or may be directed to other nearby parking areas. Evans Cycles and the event centre do not accept responsibility for your vehicle or its contents during the event.
By Train Not always a real option due to the positioning of the events. Please check with the National Rail service to find the nearest station, and also rules for taking bikes on trains.
By Bike You can also ride to the start!!
Is there anything for non-cyclist to do?
Obviously the Event Centres are chosen for their access to good trails and riding rather than surrounding attractions. That said, we will be in some beautiful areas of the UK, so there will be local trails for non-cyclist who fancy a walk. Try searching the internet for things to do locally and see if you can find something that they’ll enjoy.
Is food and drink available?
We offer hot and cold drinks for you to purchase at the start and finish of the ride. There will also be a selection of food available in the form of cake, bars and other savoury snacks.
Riders are advised to carry enough food on them for the duration of the ride.
What happens if I have an accident or mechanical problem?
If you or anyone else is seriously injured on the course the first point of contact should be the Emergency services on 999. You should then use the contact number on your rider card to let the organisers know the situation and they will then act appropriately.
If it is a minor injury you should use the contact number on your card and we will respond appropriately. If you have a major mechanical breakdown you should attempt to make your own way back to the event centre. If you are a long way from anywhere, please call the contact on the rider card. Please bear in mind that it may not be possible to recover you immediately and this should be a last resort.
What happens if I get lost?
The first thing you should do is try and physically locate yourself. Ask a walker; knock on a door or read sign posts. Then look at your map and see if you can find your way back onto the route. If this is not possible, call the RideIt! emergency number on your rider map (NOT 999). Stay warm and visible in one location while we try and direct you back on to the route. In extreme circumstances, we will come and get you, but it might not be possible to put you back on route, so you will be returned to the Event Centre.
Can I wash my bike afterwards?
We will provide a hose and cleaning equipment if a suitable supply of water and place to wash your bike is available at the event centre.
How do I see my results?
We will publish your times alphabetically on the RideIt! website so you can see how you did. We do not publish times in speed or place order as it is not a race.
Is racing okay on public roads and trails?
These events are NOT races. We do not publish times in speed order and do not encourage race type behaviour. The rides are a social event that allow people to meet other riders whilst enjoying a good ride that they don’t need to plan or route find on.
From a legal point of view, we mark out the route with arrows and tags as a suggested route. You do not need to follow this route and you are free to choose how you navigate around the course. If you want to cut out sections due to mechanical and energy problems, that’s fine.
We do not insist that you follow our route; however we recommend you follow the route and map to avoid becoming lost.
When do online pre-entries close?
Pre-entries close on the Wednesday preceding the event. After this, riders will be required to purchase an on the day entry at the event centre. On the day entries incur an additional £2.50 surcharge.
Can I advertise at your event?
You will need to contact our Marketing Department at evans.marketing@evanscycles.com
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This story was last updated on 26/10/2012
