The One Aim Cycling Club was formed to provide a safe, welcoming and fun environment for everyone to prepare for the Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer. We welcome all types of cyclists and all group rides have a strict "no drop" policy (i.e. no-one will be left on their own!)
Over the last few years, we have noticed some recurring questions so we have provided some general information to help riders get the most from their experience.
Bikes: What bike is best? If you have a mountain bike, we strongly suggest that you fit "slick" tires. There are lots of options but these (see link) are relativekly cheap and can be inflated to 85psi (that's good!). A road-bike will be easiest but not necessarily the most comfortable.
Training:Start! The earlier you start the easier and more fun The Ride will be! We have training rides for all abilities and your efllow riders will be delighted to help you. You don't need to push yourself hard; time in the saddle, confidence and fun are the key factors!
Group Rides: Riding in a group is different to riding alone. And on the 23rd June, you'll be riding with over 2000 other riders! Get some experience riding with others by joining some of our training rides...and it's way more fun with company!
Clothing: This is Alberta and the weather can change almost instantaneously! Always have a hat, gloves and wind/waterproof layer you can put on. Shoe covers are a great idea but alternatively, put a couple of supermarket plastic bags in your saddle bag so they can be used to keep your feet dry in an emergency. Some highly recommended accessories:(click on headings to link to suggested products) Boot/shoe covers: These will help keep your feet dry and, even if they do get wet, these will keep some of the wind out. They are light and small but can dramatically improve your experience in bad conditions. Many options are available depending on your priorities and budget. Also, dhb Windproof Overshoe and BBB SpeedFlex Overshoes are available online and both are excellent; the BBB ones are heavier duty but really pretty compact too...might be too warm for summer riding (free delivery of your spend over ~$80) Over Gloves: These are a great back-up for the changeable conditions in Alberta. A sudden shower can leave your gloves wet and cold. These are lightweight, can be stowed in a pocket or saddle bag. Helmet liner: If the temperature drops much below 10Degrees celcius, you will probably welcome this (or similar product). Thin enough not to alter your helmet fit too much but warm enough to make you much happier. Windproof/Waterproof Shell: Packable lightweight shell to keep you warm & dry if the weather changes. (Sorry, need to find link to suitable options!)
Speed: The right speed is YOUR speed! The Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer is a RIDE not a race. Both in The Ride and our training rides, you should ride at the pace that you are comfortable with. Especially during The Ride, there wil always be people riding at your speed so you will always have plenty of company!
Tools and maintenance: It pays to learn some of the basics. A spare tube, a patch kit and a multitool are the essentials and these will fit in a small saddle bag. One Aim Club members will be happy to demonstrate how to change a flat, adjust brakes/gears etc
Disclaimer: While we will endeavor to ensure the safety of all riders at all times, every rider takes full responsibility for their own safety