I'm 65, and began cycling again after a 20-25-year hiatus. On my daily rides, I get passed by cyclists who are approaching the speed of light while I struggle along. It bothered me, at first. Then I remembered why I'm on my bike: To try to improve my fitness, get out of the house, and perhaps live a little longer. When the blazing fast riders stop for a rest/chat, I eventually catch up with them and tell them, "The tortoise wins the race every time." I like my solo rides; no one else hears me grunt, moan, complain, and swear while grinding uphill.
Respect to you sire, I’m a former racing cyclist and am working extremely hard not to take it too seriously. My break from it is slightly longer than yours but I sometimes still find myself trying to get fitter,faster,stronger until I re-focus take my time and enjoy it again😳
@@johnsassoon7115 Respect and kudos back at you! One of my mottoes is, "If you can't laugh, go home." Like you, I'm tempted to take riding too seriously, but then I remember I'm an overweight 65-year-old white guy who must look pretty funny trying to keep up with teenagers on their bikes. Have fun, don't hurt yourself by pressing too hard on your rides, and remember: The bike isn't going to ride it's damned self!
In the end, its about enjoying the ride , I've never been interested in riding fast rather getting in better shape and having fun seeing new places, usually riding solo but hopefully with a friend
My cycling mates were all Tampa Florida based, we had a State Champion and an Olympic rider as a coach. They are all or mostly all gone now, but I still ride with Al, Doc, Bobby and EJ wherever I go out, which is every weekday. They will not be forgotten.
I love all these little bits of info from experienced guys like yourself. I've never really fancied joining a club, I actually like cycling alone and sometimes I like just poodling along and other times I'm blasting it all the way lol. I'm the sort of person who would put pressure on myself, if I was in a club, and it seem like serious training rather than just riding my bike and getting better anyway. I've only been cycling two and a bit years but I feel like I've improved massively just getting out and going further gradually. Great video though 👍. It's still interesting to see some insight into being in a club.
I have no interest at present in being in a club / group ride. Makes me think of when i rode motorbikes, problem is the temptation to keep up and ride past your skill level on a motorbike. Riding a bike that would be too fast and tiring, losing any enjoyment. Currently as a newbie 60 yr old I use map my ride for my short rides, tells me all i need currently. As Leonard has stated in some of his videos, we all have a different cadence we are happy to ride at. That gives us different speeds if in the same gears so by this very thing some will be faster than others and human nature being what it is many you will react to try and stay closer / go faster. not everything in life has to be a race, having said that each ride i do i want to have bettered myself but its how i feel on the hills that i judge if i am improving.
I have always been a lone cyclist and am perfectly happy with that. From what I have heard about clubs they are very competitive. I like challenging myself
I have to agree. Sometimes I will ride with the LBS group, but riding solo has a wonderful therapeutic value. Not only do I have to be concerned with keeping up with anyone, I don't have to wait for anyone either. Riding my own pace, being with my thoughts and taking in my surroundings are the essence of bicycling to me. Cheers!
Keep them coming Leonard I did enjoy the Vlogcast and at the moment I have all the time in the world to listen to cycling stories and anecdotes. Keep peddlin' my Lad.
Hey Leonard thanks for your videos and loved this one. Its great to hear from a "regular guy" on these topics. I do a lot of riding on my own and love the solidarity of it. There are some guys that I ride with and enjoy that as well. I might consider a club ride at some point. Thanks again!
I'm 67, 220lbs just started cycling for fitness, had a hip replacement no issues as yet 9.5 miles per hour average speed great and inspiring videos Leonard well done you.
Hi Leonard, I really liked it. You have a gift for this type of thing; no stumbles or repetitions, very concise and clearly articulated. As an aside, I am a member of a large cycling club, but, we divide our groups into categories, A,B (long and short),C,D. These are based on speed and distance by category. And we have a no drop policy. Within each group we have a ride leader for a max of 8 to 10 riders and on a weekend,, with the folks up from Toronto , we can have well over a 100 riders on any given Saturday and Sunday, plus we have some mid week rides. I am an older rider (mid 70's) and split my time between C and D groups. You can see how we do it by googling the Collingwood Cycling Club in Ontario Canada. I also, help run a Probus cycling group within our Probus club, where we also divide the riders into groups. In the last 3 years I have encouraged the riders who were becoming challenged to get e-bikes ( if you're not familiar Probus is for retired people and does operate in the UK) so that they can still get out with their friends. (Lunch is always at a pub). So, I see several ways that clubs operate to satisfy their member demographic.
Love the Vlogcast! I belonged to a club for 15 years and as people in my age group moved on , so did my interest. Now I ride with my wife, a few close friends or solo. Thanks Leonard.
What I've been missing Leonard is the social element. Thanks for the suggestions and I'm sure that I'll find some groups/clubs in my area. Very much enjoy your "folksy" style, like a chat with an old friend. Well done and thank you sir.
My little bit of feedback. As an armchair cyclist . I do like seeing more of the videos of you out and about and the glorious scenery and sunshine. I could imagine the proper cyclists enjoying this format though. I'm just happy to get your videos of the real cycling stuff. . I find it harder to watch when there's not many images. but glad that you still do the other format for us unhealthy people to feel like were out there with you
Hmm. What's a real cyclist? I have been cycling 58 years, never joined a club, and run a little online bike shop. Despite being online, we have a weekly shop ride, and a monthly ride too. Pandemic permitting. These are always social no drop rides. Those who come are the people who enjoy what *we* do. It is the same with these vids. I liked the format, maybe others will not. I thought the format was suited to the content. Cheers.
@@MrChippiechappie Sorry I have a disability and can't ride. I should have said that in my comment. my apologies. I know what you mean though, everyone should try cycling. it's a great recreation.
Fair play Leonard you gave it a go.I remember doing my first 10TT in 1982 at 13 absolutely petrified!!! But still carried on till this day riding.Listening to your experience made me think about all those years ago.The podcast sounds great Leonard keep um coming.
If these do become a regular feature, I’m on board😊. I’ll be prepared with a nice cuppa. With today’s new social issues listening to you will be a very pleasant light relief. Thanks.
Great vlog listening to some of your club riding experiences. Some of the best times and laughs I have had when I was in a road club. Clubs built the backbone of grassroots racing and as in many other amateur organisations have people who put their time, heart and soul into making things run, putting on races etc. I could go on and on about clubs...
Nice one Leonard. I live in Sydney, Australia and a couple of years ago I was fortunate enough to have four weeks in Southern England while my wife worked. Before I left Oz I contacted local bike clubs in the areas we were staying - Ramsgate, Hastings, Torquay and Falmouth asking them about joining social rides. Without exception they were extremely helpful and accomodating. Some of my most memorable rides ever were with the cycle clubs in the places we stayed. I’m still Strava friends with many of these people even though I might have only ridden with them once. I strongly encourage involvement with cycle clubs not just for the racing aspect but for the social side of riding also. Keep up the good work.
Great video Leonard. I prefer to ride alone to maximize my training and fitness without the stress of trying to keep up or being held back by slower riders. I have connected with many trike riders and we have a group that does long trike rides on the trails on Cape Cod that become great social gatherings. I just arrived back In Massachusetts a month early to help with the grandkids who are out of school and was greeted by temps in the 30’s, snow ,sleet , and rain. It sure as heck isn’t Palm Beach. Looks like no riding here for a week or so. Stay healthy and keep riding and posting. Your formats are great at every level.
Clubs or even just local bike shop group rides have rules. They have to meet a time schedules. They have certain etiquette. Dress codes. Non of which I care to mold to anymore. I feel much safer riding alone and I ride at the pace I am feeling at the moment. No need to push like I'm a racer because I don't care to race anybody anymore. I just love riding my bike and seeing the environment around me and going the distance I feel like going that day.
@@jollygoodvelo my experience is the same. The local clubs have always been extremely rude and a bit obsessed. I had a much better time with the triathlon groups. They were much more laid back.
Great video. I'm a solo rider and prefer that to groups. Even the old timer groups with slow riders have at least one rider that has to be the fastest or KOM.
In the states we have two types of cubs, competitive and casual clubs. We also tend to group riders by skill and sometimes age. I have been from one extreme to the other, from a hard core racing team when i was in my 20's and 30's to casual, no drop social riding. With my eyesight failing I now only ride my indoor trainer but I very much missing riding in groups. the skills you learn from a group, the social aspects dn the fitness are hard to beat.. I admire you for getting out that and still mixing it up..
I am so lucky to have a local club that is very informal and is focused on hosting inclusive casual no-drop rides with a tempo-team option for anyone who wants to be speedy on a particular day...
Good in depth material reinforced by my own experiences with cycling club decades ago in St Albans. Can be a hard, thankless slog at times when one is on the fringes of the club.
I joined my first cycling club in the 80’s in Plymouth. It was an initiation of fire. The club members themselves were great, friendly and supportive and it all had a family atmosphere. It was also steeped in mysterious cycling lore. Fast forward to today. I belong to a more recently formed club in Kendal that has 6 levels of groups on ride outs from easy social rides to very rapid young (to me) guns and Ladies only rides. The Kendal Giant shop has accessible rides for a wide variety including a Wednesday OC (old codgers) ride. So from my perspective things have changed hugely over the years. Sadly some of the old mysterious cycling lore and exclusivity has gone but club cycling is much more accessible in my experience.
Started a local Social Group for the area, for those that wanted to ride socially and with the nooneleftbehind motto. 2yrs running now and a lovely group of poeple
Very factual and recognizable vlog for those who have been out and in of club training. And an informative vlog for those looking to step up to join a club. Perhaps the dynamics that happen during training with many different cyclists are one topic that can be further elaborated.
I'm really enjoying the new approach Leonard - it works well for me. Cycling clubs have a reputation of being scary rather than inclusive and your honest reflections didn't disabuse me of that perception. Where's the club for the intimidated, unfit, technically illiterate beginner? It seems as though the expectation is that one learns things on one's own until one's knowledge level is deemed "acceptable" for admittance. I've no idea how near or far from the truth this is but it is, I would suggest, many novice's reality.
thanks Leonard - good topic - enjoyed it - my experience with cycling clubs was audax and maybe thats a direction you can take although the rides tend to be longer but its all very social :)
I’m a 47 year old who just started riding 2 years ago, I’m 20 lbs overweight and have a bit of a bum knee that sometimes feels like it’s going to give on climbs and sprints.. I’d love to join a club but I’m sure I’d embarrass myself and just hold everyone back.. I decided a while back to just head out on my own. It is a bit lonely though.
Jeff, I was in the same mindset but I really wanted to ride with other cyclists for the company and the push to ride further and improve my health ... riding solo is also great and I can do little or as much as I feel ..good to have options I guess
I'm nearly 60. I used to only ride on my own, but I wanted to ride with a group. Late in 2020, I joined a group for older riders - a number of the group are over 80. It's purely social, and good fun. We usually end up at a cafe after the ride.
Great video..i just joined a local bike club here in my city of Philadelphia and will be doing my first " new to riding with a club" ride this Sunday, thx for the tips!
Hi Leonard, Im the same age as yourself and race criteriums with the kids, and depending who is racing on a particular day I can finish it. For me, its the joy of being a part of it and saying to myself phew I finished it.Might like to add also that the marshell for our race is 73, Ok, he was chosen to race for Australia in the Tokyo Olimpics and still he can ride
Great video, I ride in Fremantle, Western Australia, (right next to Perth). We can usually cycle all year, though I always have my rain jacket in winter, the climate is Mediterranean, summer rides usually start at 6 am for me to avoid the heat and the intense sun. I usually treat anybody that passes me as a mini interval session and will try and keep up with them for as long as possible, (it's usually not too long though) 😂
I joined a local group and it did motivate me to ride more. Sadly the Coronavirus has meant our club has stopped riding until further notice. Looks like the turbo trainer is going to more use now. Everyone stay safe and follow government advice if we don’t draconian measures will be coming. As usual great advice.
Instant thumbs up😁. Always enjoyed your videos. Interesting to see you cycling life history. I had the pleasure of experiencing local racing from both sides of the pond. Keep those pedals turning and videos comming.
Like the format My recumbent group is pleasant since we start at the other end of the peleton, and easily sort out into pace related groups. Since many are over 70 and a few over 80 , it serves us well in all of the areas you discuss. You don't have to compete very hard after you have already won.
Excellent format Leonard! I got my bike out of storage this weekend and have started getting it ready to ride. The brakes and derailleur will have to be sorted before the shakedown run. Although not sure, I think (and hope) you have seen a spike in subscribers. All the best, Webb.
Groucho Marx once said "I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member". I subscribe to that philosophy. Clubs aren't for everyone. Great vids. Thank you.
Great Vlog as usual ... I had the ride of shame (go back!) on my first ride with a club and have never returned. But as you’ve mentioned it’s the security of the group, companionship (though I’m very happy in my own company) and a means to improve is what I’d like. The problem now of course is I’m caught between a rock and a hard place ... I’m reluctant to ride too far on my own in fear of a mechanical etc but without the endurance etc, I’ll never be strong enough to ride with a club ... any suggestions gratefully received from you or your subs ... thanks (liked the Vlogcast format btw but also like your informative ones too) 😊
I like this format. Just keep going! It would be great to see some content about famous bicycle tours such as 4 rivers bicycle route in South Korea or some nice parts of Eurovelo system, bikepacking cycling routes in the US etc. I really like the wisdom of your videos everything you share is based on your deep experiences so maybe showing bicycle trips where you haven't been wouldn't fit to your channel.
Hi Leonard, my own club riding was with the CTC, the main events were reliability trials. The big advantage of riding with them is the different sections you can join. They range from the Hardriders (100 mile plus usually) to family sections and loiterers, social activities are provided too. So if you're not into competitive cycling ie racing or time trialing they are an excellent alternative.
One of the greatest advantages of joining a cycling club is that it could be just the incentive you need to keep you away from that "sticky bun". I have found that over the years competition is one of the greatest incentives to weight loss. I'm far more lightly to watch what I eat when my cycling club will be doing major hills tomorrow! (Mike Scott, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada)
I tried to put together a riding crew... But the people around its not as keen in this like i am.. Even when i insist that the important thing is ride together, they think that the fact that me having more endurance is an element that make them let the cicling behind... That still brings me down. Thanks for sharing
Great video m8 you done well nothing like joining that 1st time when I was in Leicester I was with 2 clubs one was a gentle 12 mph pace ride other was aggressive 14to 16 mph pace with 20 plus riders Leicester forest great club but darn preferred Leicester spokes now last 5 years up north part of Blackpool clarion since last year and fully enjoyed it keep these extra videos coming I found them very insightful
We have different group rides at different speeds.We also practice the non drop policy.Most of us are older cyclists from 55 to 80 years old.Some want a faster ride,others want a leisure ride we try to cater for both groups on a Tuesday & sunday.We have a faster ride on a Thursday & more of leisure ride on a Saturday. Unfortunately some clubs only want the super fit so do not cater for most cyclists. Are club also have facebook & what's app groups & as one of the oldest clubs in the uk alot of us are into cycling history too.Enjoyed this keep up the good work. UNFORTUNATELY due to the latest virus advice we are now just cycling alone or indoors.
I am a member of a local club that is large enough that we split off into groups of various abilities. One can easily shift from one level to another till you find a the right group. The club size is somewhere in the 80s and typical Saturday. Rides attract 40 +/- riders. Besides the Saturday rides there are many informal rides throughout the week. There is always someone your level or at least willing to ride your level available. Durring social events no one really cares what level you rode. Hope you can find something similar.
"At least willing to ride at your level". Many ordinary cyclists think that they are slowing the faster people down, but actually if someone is training at a high level then they need a low intensity day from time to time. It's win-win.
Nice piece Leonard I tried a club run once. Never again! Went along and met at start point. Said hello. Then we were off! No instructions or a buddy to help. So we are doing APR (which I never did before). I go to take my turn at front but stupidly try to overtake someone else in the line. Get dogs abuse fir my efforts. As we were doing 28 mph and I was hitting 95% mhr I eventually got spat out the back Perhaps making things more welcoming and helping newbies would result in more people joining?
In The Netherlands the bigger clubs have groups for different average speeds, 25 , 27 and 30 km average. Where I live, Zeeland, the biggest climb is about 15m!! Leonard, I admire your performance.
Usually ride solo which suits the current situation nicely. The local race is open to individuals or clubs. Do ride in a pair on the Creeper Trail with a work friend when we can. We’ve worked so long together we sort of ride in formation without realizing it. Had some of the other trail riders thinking we were cops because of the synchronization! “ Hey, there’s the chips!” ( an old motorcycle cop show, too long to explain!) got a kick out of it.😂
Good video, it’s a pity the new club you tried left you behind. I agree about riding with people who are slightly better than you to improve but not getting totally out of your depth
Good to see your well Leonard. Playing well with others is not my strong suit. Though finding a few likeminded folks would be nice. Where does one go to find like minded folks in the twilight zone?
tbh looking at people cycle can get a bit boring. So the change-up with just the talk (with some clips or photo's cut in) is kinda refreshing. Besides you get to tackle more aspects of the cycling life. (IMO) Also 30 kph average is not too sloppy. I wish I could do that.
Respectable! 40K/HR (~24.8 miles/hour) for not being a slim Jim. That's what my friends and I call the real fit and slim cyclist that always beat us up the climbs.
Charging off and leaving slower colleagues behind is sadly not limited to cycling clubs, some years ago I was a totally committed member of several running clubs one of them that will remain nameless was a great club with many very talented runners, unfortunately the hierarchical click brigade reared its head and us less talented/quick runners were left behind which led to some friction and I eventually left that club. To this day they haven't changed it's very sad. My other club completely the opposite we had a policy where the front runner would allow the runner at the back to catch up, eventually we broke into various groups accommodating each runners abilities, there were the beep beep road runners, boom gone for dust and various different levels of abilities. This meant that runners were free to run with whichever group they wanted to but new there were standard expectations on us all, it worked perfectly no one ever got left behind and everyone encouraged each other. Unfortunately for me my knees had had better days and were showing signs of giving up the pain became intolerable which meant I had to stop running, I guess the many many hours of running on concrete and playing squash caught up with me sadly I can't run anymore. So I took up cycling yahoo, I'm now 70 years old I'm recovering from a severe stroke which floored me in 2001 and I'm just beginning to improve my physical strength. I'm not there yet but I've cleaned the cobwebs off my trusty old mountain bike given it a service, bought a wheels on trainer and I'm trying to push the pedals it's not easy in fact it's bloody hard work but my motto is and always has been Never Give Up I will persevere. I'm not sure I will ride on the road again becoz of my balance issues (I had to sell my Honda fire blade 1000RR coz I didn't trust myself) shame really I loved riding that bike oh well onwards n upwards I'll keep practicing slowly and rebuild my strength. I will never give in and quit which worries my wife endlessly. This comment is far too long now so I'd better go clubs are good if everyone commits to each other they're not good when they become eliteist. Keep upright everyone ✌🏻✌🏻
My Aha moment of today is to know the definition of "No Drop Policy". I had few group rides where they wrote ( No Drop Policy) . And I was thinking it is related with dropbars :)
Great VLOG. I have similar experience with cycling clubs. The new season has begun and stopped before it could start due to COVID-19. Due to my injury main goal is now to raise my level of fitness to prevent met to look like an *ss on the first ride.
I agree with you re clubs. There's loads of different clubs and groups now though so it's a matter of trial and error. Unfortunately cycling is the new golf and has consequently attracted the loud brash competitive 50 somethings who instead of paying 4k for a set of clubs are buying flashy bikes. Personally I meet up with a couple of social cycling groups now and again but whilst they all form with great intentions of being inclusive, they soon get cliquey with invariably 3 or 4 people dominating. I've noticed that although these groups and clubs have hundreds of "members", after a while its always the same small clique that goes out. I think i prefer to go with my 3 friends who are on the same wavelength and fitness levels quite honestly. I cycle because I enjoy the sheer variety of experience it gives. The last thing I want to do is race along and get home earlier. If I wanted to go fast and miss everything along the way I'd take my Ariel Atom thanks.
Great just a quick one cycle computers that you would recommend for the novice cyclist that will improve time speed ect would be great but not mad money
Great vlog always informative. This is probably a silly question but have you or do you ever gravel bike. That is my area of fun. Just don't like sharing the road with tin boxes so I try and get off it whenever I can.
My club have different categories. It's fun if you start with the right one and move up. Just like you I ended up on a sponsored racing team totally different experience. I can race unattached in the US. Just need a license. Not doing much of anything now. Just praying covid 19 will go away. Be Safe Everyone
Hello. I have recently subscribed to your channel and am working my through very useful videos. If you don't mind my asking, would you consider doing something on 'techniques to manage road traffic threats'? I put my bike into permanent storage about 3 years ago because I was feeling increasingly vulnerable to road traffic: inconsiderate or even aggressive cars and lorries - so much so that at the end of a ride, rather than feeling content or exhillarated I would be fuming with impotent rage: this was on both suburban and rural rides. Do you find wearing a helmet cam helps? Or maybe I am the sort of person who would have to confine his rides to cycle paths etc. Anyway, keep up the good work.
I rode with 2 clubs that were non-competitive and no drop rules. I didn't gel with them because they preferred to race and they were not very social. It turned me off and I rode alone. Women did like the vibe. I tried to help out the beginners because no one would. Form your own group if you can.
Really enjoyed this, and the last one too. Was the other club Southdown velo? Just wandering. I belong to a club of two, have thought of joining an official club but like to go out when it suits us best. Keep up the good work.
It's hard to find the perfect cycling club. I'm also mid sixties and most of the local clubs are faster than me. We do have some other old folks clubs and they're way too slow. I find the clubs change year over year as the make up of the group can change. I'll be riding this coming saturday with what has been, in the past, an intermediate club so we'll see how I stack up. In the past I've ridden with folks that are faster than me and that has gotten old. Falling off the back isn't something I want to do anymore so I'll try and find a club where I can at least be a middle-of-the-pack-er
I'm 65, and began cycling again after a 20-25-year hiatus.
On my daily rides, I get passed by cyclists who are approaching the speed of light while I struggle along. It bothered me, at first.
Then I remembered why I'm on my bike: To try to improve my fitness, get out of the house, and perhaps live a little longer.
When the blazing fast riders stop for a rest/chat, I eventually catch up with them and tell them, "The tortoise wins the race every time."
I like my solo rides; no one else hears me grunt, moan, complain, and swear while grinding uphill.
Dave Simmons well done I’m a tortoise to its awesome.
Respect to you sire, I’m a former racing cyclist and am working extremely hard not to take it too seriously. My break from it is slightly longer than yours but I sometimes still find myself trying to get fitter,faster,stronger until I re-focus take my time and enjoy it again😳
@@johnsassoon7115 Respect and kudos back at you!
One of my mottoes is, "If you can't laugh, go home." Like you, I'm tempted to take riding too seriously, but then I remember I'm an overweight 65-year-old white guy who must look pretty funny trying to keep up with teenagers on their bikes.
Have fun, don't hurt yourself by pressing too hard on your rides, and remember:
The bike isn't going to ride it's damned self!
Very funny comment. Hope you've got fitter, stronger and less grunty over time 😂
In the end, its about enjoying the ride , I've never been interested in riding fast rather getting in better shape and having fun seeing new places, usually riding solo but hopefully with a friend
My cycling mates were all Tampa Florida based, we had a State Champion and an Olympic rider as a coach. They are all or mostly all gone now, but I still ride with Al, Doc, Bobby and EJ wherever I go out, which is every weekday.
They will not be forgotten.
I love all these little bits of info from experienced guys like yourself. I've never really fancied joining a club, I actually like cycling alone and sometimes I like just poodling along and other times I'm blasting it all the way lol. I'm the sort of person who would put pressure on myself, if I was in a club, and it seem like serious training rather than just riding my bike and getting better anyway. I've only been cycling two and a bit years but I feel like I've improved massively just getting out and going further gradually. Great video though 👍. It's still interesting to see some insight into being in a club.
I have no interest at present in being in a club / group ride. Makes me think of when i rode motorbikes, problem is the temptation to keep up and ride past your skill level on a motorbike. Riding a bike that would be too fast and tiring, losing any enjoyment. Currently as a newbie 60 yr old I use map my ride for my short rides, tells me all i need currently. As Leonard has stated in some of his videos, we all have a different cadence we are happy to ride at. That gives us different speeds if in the same gears so by this very thing some will be faster than others and human nature being what it is many you will react to try and stay closer / go faster. not everything in life has to be a race, having said that each ride i do i want to have bettered myself but its how i feel on the hills that i judge if i am improving.
I have always been a lone cyclist and am perfectly happy with that. From what I have heard about clubs they are very competitive. I like challenging myself
I have to agree. Sometimes I will ride with the LBS group, but riding solo has a wonderful therapeutic value. Not only do I have to be concerned with keeping up with anyone, I don't have to wait for anyone either. Riding my own pace, being with my thoughts and taking in my surroundings are the essence of bicycling to me. Cheers!
And they always want race like it's stage 10 of the Tour de France and I'm just not uninterested in that.
Stay healti in these hard times.Greetings from SLOVENIJA
Keep them coming Leonard I did enjoy the Vlogcast and at the moment I have all the time in the world to listen to cycling stories and anecdotes. Keep peddlin' my Lad.
Hey Leonard thanks for your videos and loved this one. Its great to hear from a "regular guy" on these topics. I do a lot of riding on my own and love the solidarity of it. There are some guys that I ride with and enjoy that as well. I might consider a club ride at some point. Thanks again!
I'm 67, 220lbs just started cycling for fitness, had a hip replacement no issues as yet 9.5 miles per hour average speed
great and inspiring videos Leonard well done you.
Hi Leonard, I really liked it. You have a gift for this type of thing; no stumbles or repetitions, very concise and clearly articulated. As an aside, I am a member of a large cycling club, but, we divide our groups into categories, A,B (long and short),C,D. These are based on speed and distance by category. And we have a no drop policy. Within each group we have a ride leader for a max of 8 to 10 riders and on a weekend,, with the folks up from Toronto , we can have well over a 100 riders on any given Saturday and Sunday, plus we have some mid week rides. I am an older rider (mid 70's) and split my time between C and D groups. You can see how we do it by googling the Collingwood Cycling Club in Ontario Canada. I also, help run a Probus cycling group within our Probus club, where we also divide the riders into groups. In the last 3 years I have encouraged the riders who were becoming challenged to get e-bikes ( if you're not familiar Probus is for retired people and does operate in the UK) so that they can still get out with their friends. (Lunch is always at a pub). So, I see several ways that clubs operate to satisfy their member demographic.
Love the Vlogcast! I belonged to a club for 15 years and as people in my age group moved on , so did my interest. Now I ride with my wife, a few close friends or solo. Thanks Leonard.
Enjoyable and relatable, Leonard. Thanks for keeping us interested and motivated! 👍❤️🚲
Spot on Leonard, really enjoyed that.
What I've been missing Leonard is the social element. Thanks for the suggestions and I'm sure that I'll find some groups/clubs in my area. Very much enjoy your "folksy" style, like a chat with an old friend. Well done and thank you sir.
My little bit of feedback. As an armchair cyclist . I do like seeing more of the videos of you out and about and the glorious scenery and sunshine. I could imagine the proper cyclists enjoying this format though. I'm just happy to get your videos of the real cycling stuff. . I find it harder to watch when there's not many images. but glad that you still do the other format for us unhealthy people to feel like were out there with you
I think you have summed up my personal reservation with this format. It does seem a little odd to just sit and chat with no cutaway material.
The real cyclists will like it probably Leonard... It's good of you to do it for them.
Hmm. What's a real cyclist?
I have been cycling 58 years, never joined a club, and run a little online bike shop. Despite being online, we have a weekly shop ride, and a monthly ride too. Pandemic permitting. These are always social no drop rides.
Those who come are the people who enjoy what *we* do.
It is the same with these vids. I liked the format, maybe others will not. I thought the format was suited to the content.
Cheers.
Get out and cycle for real watching it from your armchair isn't going to do you any good.
@@MrChippiechappie Sorry I have a disability and can't ride. I should have said that in my comment. my apologies. I know what you mean though, everyone should try cycling. it's a great recreation.
I really enjoy these vlogcasts, they seem much more personal and make me want to watch the whole thing.
Fair play Leonard you gave it a go.I remember doing my first 10TT in 1982 at 13 absolutely petrified!!! But still carried on till this day riding.Listening to your experience made me think about all those years ago.The podcast sounds great Leonard keep um coming.
If these do become a regular feature, I’m on board😊. I’ll be prepared with a nice cuppa. With today’s new social issues listening to you will be a very pleasant light relief. Thanks.
Nice vlogcast! I for one enjoy these a lot, being an elderly Englishman stuck in self isolation in Arizona.
Great vlog listening to some of your club riding experiences. Some of the best times and laughs I have had when I was in a road club. Clubs built the backbone of grassroots racing and as in many other amateur organisations have people who put their time, heart and soul into making things run, putting on races etc. I could go on and on about clubs...
Nice one Leonard. I live in Sydney, Australia and a couple of years ago I was fortunate enough to have four weeks in Southern England while my wife worked. Before I left Oz I contacted local bike clubs in the areas we were staying - Ramsgate, Hastings, Torquay and Falmouth asking them about joining social rides. Without exception they were extremely helpful and accomodating. Some of my most memorable rides ever were with the cycle clubs in the places we stayed. I’m still Strava friends with many of these people even though I might have only ridden with them once. I strongly encourage involvement with cycle clubs not just for the racing aspect but for the social side of riding also. Keep up the good work.
Great video Leonard. I prefer to ride alone to maximize my training and fitness without the stress of trying to keep up or being held back by slower riders. I have connected with many trike riders and we have a group that does long trike rides on the trails on Cape Cod that become great social gatherings. I just arrived back In Massachusetts a month early to help with the grandkids who are out of school and was greeted by temps in the 30’s, snow ,sleet , and rain. It sure as heck isn’t Palm Beach. Looks like no riding here for a week or so. Stay healthy and keep riding and posting. Your formats are great at every level.
Clubs or even just local bike shop group rides have rules. They have to meet a time schedules. They have certain etiquette. Dress codes. Non of which I care to mold to anymore. I feel much safer riding alone and I ride at the pace I am feeling at the moment. No need to push like I'm a racer because I don't care to race anybody anymore. I just love riding my bike and seeing the environment around me and going the distance I feel like going that day.
They aren’t hard and fast rules. Most clubs are pretty laid back.
@@jollygoodvelo my experience is the same. The local clubs have always been extremely rude and a bit obsessed. I had a much better time with the triathlon groups. They were much more laid back.
Great video. I'm a solo rider and prefer that to groups. Even the old timer groups with slow riders have at least one rider that has to be the fastest or KOM.
In the states we have two types of cubs, competitive and casual clubs. We also tend to group riders by skill and sometimes age. I have been from one extreme to the other, from a hard core racing team when i was in my 20's and 30's to casual, no drop social riding. With my eyesight failing I now only ride my indoor trainer but I very much missing riding in groups. the skills you learn from a group, the social aspects dn the fitness are hard to beat.. I admire you for getting out that and still mixing it up..
I am so lucky to have a local club that is very informal and is focused on hosting inclusive casual no-drop rides with a tempo-team option for anyone who wants to be speedy on a particular day...
Good in depth material reinforced by my own experiences with cycling club decades ago in St Albans. Can be a hard, thankless slog at times when one is on the fringes of the club.
I joined my first cycling club in the 80’s in Plymouth. It was an initiation of fire. The club members themselves were great, friendly and supportive and it all had a family atmosphere. It was also steeped in mysterious cycling lore. Fast forward to today. I belong to a more recently formed club in Kendal that has 6 levels of groups on ride outs from easy social rides to very rapid young (to me) guns and Ladies only rides. The Kendal Giant shop has accessible rides for a wide variety including a Wednesday OC (old codgers) ride. So from my perspective things have changed hugely over the years. Sadly some of the old mysterious cycling lore and exclusivity has gone but club cycling is much more accessible in my experience.
Started a local Social Group for the area, for those that wanted to ride socially and with the nooneleftbehind motto. 2yrs running now and a lovely group of poeple
Thanks 🙏 always love listening to you especially these days we all in isolation at homes globally 😇🤓✌️
THANKS for the insights...you highlighted all the questions that I have been thinking about.
Hi Leonard, I like the vlogcast! Like you say, its gives you a chance to talk about other things within the world of cycling and beyond!!
Interesting that you say beyond. I’ve thought about expanding the channel but what else should it include. Suggestions would be very welcome.
Very factual and recognizable vlog for those who have been out and in of club training. And an informative vlog for those looking to step up to join a club. Perhaps the dynamics that happen during training with many different cyclists are one topic that can be further elaborated.
I'm really enjoying the new approach Leonard - it works well for me. Cycling clubs have a reputation of being scary rather than inclusive and your honest reflections didn't disabuse me of that perception. Where's the club for the intimidated, unfit, technically illiterate beginner? It seems as though the expectation is that one learns things on one's own until one's knowledge level is deemed "acceptable" for admittance.
I've no idea how near or far from the truth this is but it is, I would suggest, many novice's reality.
Thanks for the Videos Leonard. Been enjoying these recently, after i have started back after a 12 year lay off. 👍
Good luck getting back on the bike. You’ll love it
Great format, I like it !
Very good vlog. Very insightful 👍
thanks Leonard - good topic - enjoyed it - my experience with cycling clubs was audax and maybe thats a direction you can take although the rides tend to be longer but its all very social :)
This was very educational. Thanks for uploading this.
I’m a 47 year old who just started riding 2 years ago, I’m 20 lbs overweight and have a bit of a bum knee that sometimes feels like it’s going to give on climbs and sprints.. I’d love to join a club but I’m sure I’d embarrass myself and just hold everyone back.. I decided a while back to just head out on my own. It is a bit lonely though.
There will be a group for you if you look for one.
Jeff, I was in the same mindset but I really wanted to ride with other cyclists for the company and the push to ride further and improve my health ... riding solo is also great and I can do little or as much as I feel ..good to have options I guess
I'm nearly 60. I used to only ride on my own, but I wanted to ride with a group. Late in 2020, I joined a group for older riders - a number of the group are over 80. It's purely social, and good fun. We usually end up at a cafe after the ride.
Thank you for sharing this Leonard!
Thanks again for these pros and cons, Leonard. Think I may just find a local group to ride for fun and continue the benies of soloing it.🚴♂️🤷♀️🌲
Great video..i just joined a local bike club here in my city of Philadelphia and will be doing my first " new to riding with a club" ride this Sunday, thx for the tips!
Enjoy!
Hi Leonard, Im the same age as yourself and race criteriums with the kids, and depending who is racing on a particular day I can finish it. For me, its the joy of being a part of it and saying to myself phew I finished it.Might like to add also that the marshell for our race is 73, Ok, he was chosen to race for Australia in the Tokyo Olimpics and still he can ride
Great video, I ride in Fremantle, Western Australia, (right next to Perth). We can usually cycle all year, though I always have my rain jacket in winter, the climate is Mediterranean, summer rides usually start at 6 am for me to avoid the heat and the intense sun. I usually treat anybody that passes me as a mini interval session and will try and keep up with them for as long as possible, (it's usually not too long though) 😂
I joined a local group and it did motivate me to ride more. Sadly the Coronavirus has meant our club has stopped riding until further notice. Looks like the turbo trainer is going to more use now. Everyone stay safe and follow government advice if we don’t draconian measures will be coming. As usual great advice.
👍👍keep up the good work. Always informative.
loving this vlogcast. you also made me laugh, meeting like minded people, scary thought!
Gary, I agree. I'm not sure I'd like to meet too many people with my mental processes - at least not in a large group!
Instant thumbs up😁. Always enjoyed your videos. Interesting to see you cycling life history. I had the pleasure of experiencing local racing from both sides of the pond. Keep those pedals turning and videos comming.
Like the format
My recumbent group is pleasant since we start at the other end of the peleton, and easily sort out into pace related groups.
Since many are over 70 and a few over 80 , it serves us well in all of the areas you discuss. You don't have to compete very hard after you have already won.
Excellent format Leonard! I got my bike out of storage this weekend and have started getting it ready to ride. The brakes and derailleur will have to be sorted before the shakedown run. Although not sure, I think (and hope) you have seen a spike in subscribers. All the best, Webb.
Groucho Marx once said "I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member". I subscribe to that philosophy. Clubs aren't for everyone. Great vids. Thank you.
I think this is the philosophy behind the Rapha cycling club. Not everyone is accepted and its £200 a year!
Great Vlog as usual ... I had the ride of shame (go back!) on my first ride with a club and have never returned. But as you’ve mentioned it’s the security of the group, companionship (though I’m very happy in my own company) and a means to improve is what I’d like. The problem now of course is I’m caught between a rock and a hard place ... I’m reluctant to ride too far on my own in fear of a mechanical etc but without the endurance etc, I’ll never be strong enough to ride with a club ... any suggestions gratefully received from you or your subs ... thanks (liked the Vlogcast format btw but also like your informative ones too) 😊
I like this format. Just keep going!
It would be great to see some content about famous bicycle tours such as 4 rivers bicycle route in South Korea or some nice parts of Eurovelo system, bikepacking cycling routes in the US etc.
I really like the wisdom of your videos everything you share is based on your deep experiences so maybe showing bicycle trips where you haven't been wouldn't fit to your channel.
Thanks for covering this, I have been considering joining a club for a while now and this has helped
Hi Leonard, my own club riding was with the CTC, the main events were reliability trials. The big advantage of riding with them is the different sections you can join. They range from the Hardriders (100 mile plus usually) to family sections and loiterers, social activities are provided too.
So if you're not into competitive cycling ie racing or time trialing they are an excellent alternative.
I think this vlogcast idea is a very good one. Really enjoyed this video and I am looking forward to more of this in the future.
Thanks for the feedback.
Lovely story Leo, great stuff, thanks for sharing!! Encourages me to go out and seek some groups (but that after the crisis is over)
Keep it up you're doing fine, I've had similar experiences my self. Good to know I'm not alone 🙂
One of the greatest advantages of joining a cycling club is that it could be just the incentive you need to keep you away from that "sticky bun". I have found that over the years competition is one of the greatest incentives to weight loss. I'm far more lightly to watch what I eat when my cycling club will be doing major hills tomorrow! (Mike Scott, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada)
I think the opposite is true as the cafe stop is an integral part of UK cycling culture.
I tried to put together a riding crew... But the people around its not as keen in this like i am.. Even when i insist that the important thing is ride together, they think that the fact that me having more endurance is an element that make them let the cicling behind... That still brings me down. Thanks for sharing
Great video m8 you done well nothing like joining that 1st time when I was in Leicester I was with 2 clubs one was a gentle 12 mph pace ride other was aggressive 14to 16 mph pace with 20 plus riders Leicester forest great club but darn preferred Leicester spokes now last 5 years up north part of Blackpool clarion since last year and fully enjoyed it keep these extra videos coming I found them very insightful
Great to know the pros and cons of group riding
We have different group rides at different speeds.We also practice the non drop policy.Most of us are older cyclists from 55 to 80 years old.Some want a faster ride,others want a leisure ride we try to cater for both groups on a Tuesday & sunday.We have a faster ride on a Thursday & more of leisure ride on a Saturday. Unfortunately some clubs only want the super fit so do not cater for most cyclists. Are club also have facebook & what's app groups & as one of the oldest clubs in the uk alot of us are into cycling history too.Enjoyed this keep up the good work. UNFORTUNATELY due to the latest virus advice we are now just cycling alone or indoors.
great stuff Leonard ! i joined my club last year after years cycling solo its best decision i have made in years!
another good video sir, thanks for sharing your opinion.
Thanks.
I loved the content. Looking forward to the next one!
Thanks.
I am a member of a local club that is large enough that we split off into groups of various abilities. One can easily shift from one level to another till you find a the right group. The club size is somewhere in the 80s and typical Saturday. Rides attract 40 +/- riders. Besides the Saturday rides there are many informal rides throughout the week. There is always someone your level or at least willing to ride your level available. Durring social events no one really cares what level you rode. Hope you can find something similar.
"At least willing to ride at your level".
Many ordinary cyclists think that they are slowing the faster people down, but actually if someone is training at a high level then they need a low intensity day from time to time.
It's win-win.
Yes, we're all waiting for our club rides to resume. Hopefully late April.
I like theses vlog casts really good 👍👍
Nice piece Leonard
I tried a club run once. Never again! Went along and met at start point. Said hello. Then we were off! No instructions or a buddy to help. So we are doing APR (which I never did before). I go to take my turn at front but stupidly try to overtake someone else in the line. Get dogs abuse fir my efforts.
As we were doing 28 mph and I was hitting 95% mhr I eventually got spat out the back
Perhaps making things more welcoming and helping newbies would result in more people joining?
In The Netherlands the bigger clubs have groups for different average speeds, 25 , 27 and 30 km average. Where I live, Zeeland, the biggest climb is about 15m!! Leonard, I admire your performance.
Usually ride solo which suits the current situation nicely. The local race is open to individuals or clubs. Do ride in a pair on the Creeper Trail with a work friend when we can. We’ve worked so long together we sort of ride in formation without realizing it. Had some of the other trail riders thinking we were cops because of the synchronization! “ Hey, there’s the chips!” ( an old motorcycle cop show, too long to explain!) got a kick out of it.😂
Good video, it’s a pity the new club you tried left you behind. I agree about riding with people who are slightly better than you to improve but not getting totally out of your depth
Good to see your well Leonard. Playing well with others is not my strong suit. Though finding a few likeminded folks would be nice. Where does one go to find like minded folks in the twilight zone?
tbh looking at people cycle can get a bit boring. So the change-up with just the talk (with some clips or photo's cut in) is kinda refreshing. Besides you get to tackle more aspects of the cycling life. (IMO) Also 30 kph average is not too sloppy. I wish I could do that.
thanks for another good video bro. i ride myself nowadays 'cause of a similar experience with my club.
Glad you liked it.
Respectable! 40K/HR (~24.8 miles/hour) for not being a slim Jim. That's what my friends and I call the real fit and slim cyclist that always beat us up the climbs.
Thats twice my average speed! What the hell am I going to do?
It was great video and i the new video great job 👏
I also prefer solo riding it gives you so much more
It’s great riding on your own terms.
@@jollygoodvelo yeah done the club thing for a while in 2007 didn't really enjoy their company many of them look down at less fit riders
Some very good device to cyclists joining a club or just cycling on your own
Charging off and leaving slower colleagues behind is sadly not limited to cycling clubs, some years ago I was a totally committed member of several running clubs one of them that will remain nameless was a great club with many very talented runners, unfortunately the hierarchical click brigade reared its head and us less talented/quick runners were left behind which led to some friction and I eventually left that club. To this day they haven't changed it's very sad. My other club completely the opposite we had a policy where the front runner would allow the runner at the back to catch up, eventually we broke into various groups accommodating each runners abilities, there were the beep beep road runners, boom gone for dust and various different levels of abilities. This meant that runners were free to run with whichever group they wanted to but new there were standard expectations on us all, it worked perfectly no one ever got left behind and everyone encouraged each other. Unfortunately for me my knees had had better days and were showing signs of giving up the pain became intolerable which meant I had to stop running, I guess the many many hours of running on concrete and playing squash caught up with me sadly I can't run anymore. So I took up cycling yahoo, I'm now 70 years old I'm recovering from a severe stroke which floored me in 2001 and I'm just beginning to improve my physical strength. I'm not there yet but I've cleaned the cobwebs off my trusty old mountain bike given it a service, bought a wheels on trainer and I'm trying to push the pedals it's not easy in fact it's bloody hard work but my motto is and always has been Never Give Up I will persevere. I'm not sure I will ride on the road again becoz of my balance issues (I had to sell my Honda fire blade 1000RR coz I didn't trust myself) shame really I loved riding that bike oh well onwards n upwards I'll keep practicing slowly and rebuild my strength. I will never give in and quit which worries my wife endlessly. This comment is far too long now so I'd better go clubs are good if everyone commits to each other they're not good when they become eliteist. Keep upright everyone ✌🏻✌🏻
My Aha moment of today is to know the definition of "No Drop Policy". I had few group rides where they wrote ( No Drop Policy) . And I was thinking it is related with dropbars :)
Great VLOG. I have similar experience with cycling clubs. The new season has begun and stopped before it could start due to COVID-19. Due to my injury main goal is now to raise my level of fitness to prevent met to look like an *ss on the first ride.
Positive vlog.
Fareham Wheelers have more than one social group on the Sunday club ride and I’m sure you would be most welcome and enjoy the ride.
Thanks. They are on my list. A friend of mine already rides with them in Sunday’s and she thoroughly recommends them.
I agree with you re clubs. There's loads of different clubs and groups now though so it's a matter of trial and error. Unfortunately cycling is the new golf and has consequently attracted the loud brash competitive 50 somethings who instead of paying 4k for a set of clubs are buying flashy bikes. Personally I meet up with a couple of social cycling groups now and again but whilst they all form with great intentions of being inclusive, they soon get cliquey with invariably 3 or 4 people dominating. I've noticed that although these groups and clubs have hundreds of "members", after a while its always the same small clique that goes out. I think i prefer to go with my 3 friends who are on the same wavelength and fitness levels quite honestly.
I cycle because I enjoy the sheer variety of experience it gives. The last thing I want to do is race along and get home earlier. If I wanted to go fast and miss everything along the way I'd take my Ariel Atom thanks.
Terry looking good at 8:54 :)
Great just a quick one cycle computers that you would recommend for the novice cyclist that will improve time speed ect would be great but not mad money
You can pick up some pretty good Garmin ones second hand on Ebay. Look for things like the Edge 500 and 520.
That was interesting 👍
In a good way, hopefully.
Great vlog always informative. This is probably a silly question but have you or do you ever gravel bike. That is my area of fun. Just don't like sharing the road with tin boxes so I try and get off it whenever I can.
Unfortunately I don’t own a gravel bike.
So you did the Goodwood gallops I did these as part of training 🙂
Excellent. Makes quite a difference delivering unscripted - particularly your eyeline. Stay safe.
My club have different categories. It's fun if you start with the right one and move up. Just like you I ended up on a sponsored racing team totally different experience. I can race unattached in the US. Just need a license. Not doing much of anything now. Just praying covid 19 will go away. Be Safe Everyone
Good video, ten miles in thirty minutes, umm, is that with the wind I wonder. L.o.l.🚵♂️
Joining A club is the best thing you will ever do ! Never even considered racing now I’m working towards getting Cat2 and absolutely loving it !
Hello. I have recently subscribed to your channel and am working my through very useful videos. If you don't mind my asking, would you consider doing something on 'techniques to manage road traffic threats'? I put my bike into permanent storage about 3 years ago because I was feeling increasingly vulnerable to road traffic: inconsiderate or even aggressive cars and lorries - so much so that at the end of a ride, rather than feeling content or exhillarated I would be fuming with impotent rage: this was on both suburban and rural rides. Do you find wearing a helmet cam helps? Or maybe I am the sort of person who would have to confine his rides to cycle paths etc. Anyway, keep up the good work.
It’s a great suggestion, Christopher. I’ll see what I can do.
I rode with 2 clubs that were non-competitive and no drop rules. I didn't gel with them because they preferred to race and they were not very social. It turned me off and I rode alone. Women did like the vibe. I tried to help out the beginners because no one would. Form your own group if you can.
Really enjoyed this, and the last one too. Was the other club Southdown velo? Just wandering. I belong to a club of two, have thought of joining an official club but like to go out when it suits us best. Keep up the good work.
I’m not going to kiss and tell!
@@jollygoodvelo lol, I've seen members of a certain club get left behind on a few occasions while out. 😉
It's hard to find the perfect cycling club. I'm also mid sixties and most of the local clubs are faster than me. We do have some other old folks clubs and they're way too slow. I find the clubs change year over year as the make up of the group can change. I'll be riding this coming saturday with what has been, in the past, an intermediate club so we'll see how I stack up. In the past I've ridden with folks that are faster than me and that has gotten old. Falling off the back isn't something I want to do anymore so I'll try and find a club where I can at least be a middle-of-the-pack-er
Pop up clubs are a thing. Ride with very similar people.
Leo, one request: ONLY POSITIVE MESSAGES PLEASE! all negatives we can find everywhere around ;-)
cheers
You need all the facts to make a choice otherwise it's a one sided story!
Life isn't all positive. He's telling his truth. I personally appreciate his realistic take on cycling.
I thought this was positive??
@@jollygoodvelo One person's positive is another person's negative. You CAN'T please everyone!! Keep telling your truth!
@leonardmlee yes it was ;-)