We are proud to announce the 7 Hills CC women’s ride – organised for women, by women.

Join us for our first ride on Saturday 8th July at 9am from Kringle in Bents Green. 

The route will be 80-90km (50 miles) along beautiful Peak District roads, with a well-earned café stop at Hassop Café. 

This exciting event aims to bring together female cyclists within our club and beyond. We want to create a welcoming, inclusive space specifically organised by, and for, a female audience.

This is a no-drop ride aimed at non-members – so get involved!

Answers to all your common questions below, but if you want any further information do get in touch – Fiona, Heather and Anna are on hand and happy to help 🙂

Route here: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43451411

Q&A

Why are you offering a separate women’s ride rather than mixed rides?

• We have always offered mixed rides which cyclists of any gender can join, but we recognise that we need to do more to support more female riders.
• We recognise that some women might prefer group rides which are specifically organised by, and for, a female audience. 
• By offering a separate women’s ride, we hope to support more women who might otherwise be put off.
• As a club, we want to create an environment where women feel comfortable, safe, valued and involved. 

Is this a lesser ride? Are you saying women can’t keep up with men?

• The women’s ride is absolutely not a lesser ride.
• We recognise we could do more to promote women’s cycling. We want to provide a female-friendly environment where women feel comfortable, safe, valued and involved. 
• Women continue to be welcomed onto all of our existing mixed rides, and we hope that this new women’s ride will encourage more women onto our other rides too.
• The women’s rides are designed for women, by women.

How fast will the ride be?

• The pace will ultimately be decided by those who attend.
• We anticipate that the pace will be around 19-23kph (12-14mph), though this will vary depending on attendance, terrain, weather etc.
• We are seeking to offer longer rides at a moderate pace as there are few other female club rides of this type in Sheffield.

Will I get dropped?

• The first ride is a no-drop ride as we want everyone to give it a go.
• If someone is struggling and doesn’t feel comfortable completing the full route, riders will be on hand to ensure they get home safely.
• We anticipate that going forward the pace will be around 19-23kph (12-14mph), though this will vary depending on attendance, terrain, weather etc.

Why are you only offering a long ride at a moderate pace?

• We want to offer something new to female cyclists in and around Sheffield.
• There are already other female-friendly clubs in Sheffield offering shorter rides, but we’re providing something new for women wanting to cycle longer distances in the Peak District at a moderate pace.
• Those who attend are welcome to offer shorter versions of the route which others can then join.
• This is a new idea which will evolve over time according to those that turn up. We welcome feedback – get involved and let us know!

Do I have to do the full route?

• No – riders can choose to do all or part of the route.
• We always encourage our club members to offer shorter versions of the full route which others can then join.
• We strongly encourage riders to come prepared with whichever route they choose to do.

How often will the rides be on?

• This will depend on interest and will ultimately be decided by those women that get involved. 
• If there is appetite, we would love to run women’s rides weekly or fortnightly.
• 7 Hills CC currently runs mixed club rides three times a week.

Are men allowed on the women’s ride?

• This is a female-only ride recognising the need to create an environment where women feel comfortable, safe, valued and involved. 
• We want to support women’s cycling by providing female-friendly rides which are organised by, and for, a female audience.

Sounds great – how can I get involved?

• Come to our first ride at 9am on Saturday 8th July from Kringle (Bents Green).
• We are looking for more amazing women to join our organising group. If you’re passionate about cycling and want to get involved, please get in touch!

What if I get a puncture or my bike breaks?

• Riders will be on hand to help in case of a mechanical, but please make sure you bring enough kit to be self sufficient. We recommend a multitool, spare inner tube, tyre levers and a pump.

What about the weather?

• We ride in (almost) all conditions!
• If the forecast is particularly bad, we will send an update via our social media channels.
• Otherwise, keep an eye on the forecast and consider bringing a packable jacket.

I’ve never ridden in a group – what should I know?

• Riding in a group is a great way to meet new people, find new routes and have fun cycling!
• Communicate potential hazards (e.g. potholes, cars, pedestrians) using shouts (“car up!”) or hand signals.
• Single out where appropriate to allow traffic to flow – e.g. on narrow roads. A “single out” shout can help too.
• Maintain a consistent speed and avoid sudden braking unless in an emergency. Be aware that there might be other riders very close to you.
• Communicate as you slow down or stop (e.g. shout “stopping” as you approach a red light) – this ensures everyone stops safely.
• If you’re nervous about riding in a group let a more experienced rider know – they will be more than happy to help you settle in.
• Shout if there’s a split in the group or one person is off the back. This will ensure those at the front know to ease off and let the group reform.
• Look after one another – if someone is struggling consider dropping back to give some support. A little camaraderie goes a long way.

 What do I need to bring?

• A fully functioning road bike.
• Multitool, spare inner tube, tyre levers and a pump.
• Enough food and water (but there will be a café stop).
• Money/card for the café stop.
• A mobile phone.
• The route (not essential, but strongly recommended).
• Good vibes!