Riding with others
Friends
“He travels the fastest who travels alone” may be true of cyclists (male or female), but it was probably not what Rudyard Kipling had in mind when he wrote the poem. Cycling alone is fine for shopping or commuting, but cycling can also be a very social activity, and more enjoyable because of it. Cycling with a friend or two means you can share the experience, and encourage one another if the going gets tough.
Informal Local Groups
Going for a group ride with other cyclists is a great way to find the best cycle routes, bike shops and cafés in the area. It’s also a good way to make new friends. If you’re new to riding, the other riders will give you moral support and tips on fixing your bike (or maybe even fix it for you!)
There are a number of informal groups of cyclists in the Goring Gap area, some of which go riding together on a regular basis. If you run such a group and would like to have your contact details here, please get in touch.
The Gromils
The Goring Gromils are an informal group of friends who enjoy cycling and live in or around Goring and Streatley. They typically go riding once or twice a week and are always happy to be joined by new cyclists.
Cycling UK Groups
More formally-organised groups typically publish their planned itinerary in advance. Cycling UK has a network of around 1,000 cycling groups across the UK. These groups focus mainly on social, rather than competitive cycling. They all welcome visitors, and there is no charge to join a ride. If you ride regularly with the group, you will be encouraged to join Cycling UK as a member. This has other benefits, not least free third-party insurance and legal advice. There are two Cycling UK groups nearby, both of which focus on social cycling and have rides one or more times per week.
CTC Wallingford
The Cycling UK group in Wallingford has retained the traditional name of CTC (Cyclists’ Touring Club). The group’s rides start in Wallingford, but often pass through Goring and/or Streatley, making them quite convenient for local riders.
Cycling UK Reading group
This is a larger group, which has a very active programme of rides during the day on Sundays and Wednesdays and also Wednesday evenings, both on-road and off-road.
Other Local Groups
Other nearby groups are geared towards competitive cycling, with more emphasis on Strava than cakes.
Cycling clubs are not like this any more. The Anfield Bicycle Club’s annual dinner on 11th March 1939. The Anfield is one of the oldest continuously active cycling clubs in the world, and was the progenitor of a certain well-known football club.