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It's decided! After closely following the exploits of your favorite cyclists, you've decided to take up cycling. After thinking about it, you prefer cycling in a club. We tell you how to find a bike club that's right for you.
Why ride in a club instead of solo?
Biking is an individual sport that can be done solo or in a group. If you ride solo, you will be the only one in control: distance, elevation gain, pace, etc. If you ride in a group, you will have to bend to the majority regarding these parameters but it will also allow you to get out of your comfort zone and push yourself. In addition, you will often encounter a friendly spirit that will allow you to share precious moments around cycling among enthusiasts. If you later wish to practice competition, it will also train you to ride in a peloton.
Choosing a club that's right for you
Whether you're a complete beginner or already have a cycling background, your expectations won't be the same. Likewise, whether you just want to ride for fun or you want to compete against other riders, you won't choose the same type of club. In the first case, it will be preferable to turn to a club affiliated with the FF Vélo (French Cycling Federation) while in the second case you will rather find your happiness in a club affiliated with the FFC (French Cycling Federation). For competition, it is also possible to join a club affiliated with the UFOLEP.
Some clubs only practice road cycling while others are multidisciplinary and also offer Mountain Bike or cyclo-cross rides. Again, this will be a key criterion for choosing your club.
How to find a bike club
Now that you've determined your criteria for choosing the perfect club, the one that will suit your practice, you're wondering where to find contact information for that club. To do this, simply go to the website of your chosen federation (FF Vélo or FFC): indeed, both offer a list of clubs that you can sort according to your geographical criteria (department) but also the chosen discipline (road, mountain bike, cyclo-cross, bike school).
If you are hesitating between several clubs, know that - generally - it is possible to make one or more trial rides with your future group before making a decision.
With all of these tips, you now have no excuses: you're ready to jump in and start your bike training. All that's left to do is contact the club near you that's right for you. So saddle up and enjoy the ride.
