FAQs
PBCC Rides
Can anyone join the rides?
They are open to ALL women! But we do ask that you RSVP on our Strava page so we know who’s coming, and so we can make sure you have all of the necessary info. If you haven’t joined it yet, you ought to (it’s a closed group, but we’re pretty quick about approving a request to join)! The Strava page is where we’ll post all of our rides and events.
Why do I need to join the Strava page and RSVP?
It’s helpful for us to know who’s showing up so we can plan accordingly. It also helps us notify riders of any last minute changes (weather, if a ride leader has something come up, etc). We just want to make sure everyone has the most up-to-date info.
How fast do you go, and how long do these rides take?
We host all types of rides, so this one isn’t a simple answer!
Some of our rides are designed to be beginner friendly with a chill pace while others are more intermediate or advances and are designed to push you a bit. They vary in surface type (road, MTB, gravel) and distance. Keep an eye on the ride event page for those details.
Important: It’s YOUR responsibility to know your riding level. When in doubt, invite a friend that you know can ride with you no matter what!
Do I have to be an experienced rider to do this?
Experience is relative. At a minimum you should know how to operate your bike, know how to shift and when, how to safely brake, and ride in a group.
These rides are not the time for you to learn how to use your bike on the fly, or to make your ride debut after a long hiatus. You should have a good fitness base for the type of ride you’re planning on joining (beginner friendly, intermediate, or advanced).
We don’t expect you to be a bike mechanic, but do we expect everyone to show up with a bike that’s in a good working order. This is for your safety and for the safety of your fellow riders! We aren’t bike mechanics either, so it’s a good idea to take your bike in to your local shop to make sure it’s seaworthy.
When and where?
You ever have that one weekly ride you want to join but that’s the one day you can’t make work? Same. In our first few years we had a steady schedule, but these days we keep them pretty loose. This change will hopefully make it so that everyone gets a chance to catch a ride. Our rides are volunteer-led, so they pop up as ride lead schedules allow. Keep an eye on our Strava page for those!
Do you guys socialize after the ride?
Yes! We typically try to find a start/end point where we can hang out for a drink and some food post-ride. It’s a good way to make friends and support our local businesses!
What happens if the weather is bad?
If there is inclement weather and it’s unsafe to ride, we will cancel the ride. Please check the Strava ride event page for cancellations/changes. But always use your best judgment! If a ride is a go and you feel a bit iffy about it, you gotta make that call for yourself.
What do I need?
An appropriate bike for the type of riding/route we’ll be on (if you ever have a question or you’re on the fence, feel free to ask).
Helmet (this is required on our rides).
Lights (front and rear).
Basic repair kit that includes a patch kit, multi-tool, spare tube, pump/co2, etc. Everyone’s bike is different, do not rely on anyone else to have what you need or to have extra to share.
Your ID, cash, or credit card.
The route. Please have this loaded to your device.
A backup plan! Have someone you can call if you decide that you’re not feeling it or if you need to bail for any reason.
Legal Disclaimer
While we plan for every Prairie Bloom Rider to have a safe experience, there are some inherent risks in choosing to participate in cycling, such as adverse traffic conditions, road conditions, weather, and the actions of motorists and other cyclists. By choosing to participate, you acknowledge that you are willing to assume these risks, and that neither PBCC nor its members are responsible for any damage that may occur.