How to prepare

How to fuel for a long bike ride

Generally, eat and drink small amounts regularly, although everyone is different. Don't wait until you feel hungry or thirsty. If waymarking, stopping for photos or a regroup, then take the opportunity to sip and snack. 

Bike checklist 

Please refer to the Cycling UK bike check.

Your first ride

How to really, really enjoy The Friday Night Ride

Here are some simple tips on how to make sure you have a good time. We take pride in ensuring you enjoy it and come back for more. It’s what we do.

Pack an extra layer of clothing. It's always cold at 5am when you emerge from the cake stop. Rain may appear even if not forecast. Be prepared. Make sure your lights will last all night on steady mode (not flashing). A back up rear light is useful.

Get to the start point in plenty of time and make sure you listen to the safety briefing as it's important information for you and the group.

We don't give out the route for a number of reasons, but mostly because it can change on the night due to road/weather conditions and overall progress.  

Play your part

Waymark if asked to do so. Point in the direction that the ride leader or wing said. Make yourself obvious to the passing riders, shout the direction if needed. This is important on the way out of London where there are lots of random cyclists about too. It's helpful to stand sideways on with your front light pointing the way as well. 

Do not move from your post until the All Upper comes along and shouts “All Up!”. This is the person who is the back of the ride. They stay behind the last rider to make sure no one gets lost. At the shout you are free to zoom off to the front or chill out at the back. Or mooch about in the middle. 

The All Upper will be introduced during the briefing so pay attention to who it is. Accept no imitations. Waving and hulloing riders are not the All Upper. If there has been a delay such as a mechanical then usually someone will be sent ahead to warn the Waymarkers so you won't be left wondering. 

Do not leave your post before being All Upped otherwise this will lead to part of the group getting lost. Do your bit to make the ride work! Bask in the thank yous as your fellow riders pedal past. 

Trust the system. Play your part in making the ride work and run smoothly.

Regroups

We collect everyone together regularly. Sometimes we may be waiting awhile if there's been a puncture. This is your opportunity for fettling. Layers off or on. Sort out light batteries or loose mount. Eat and drink. Chat to your neighbour. Stamp your feet and get your gloves on.