Want to get a quick workout on the weekend? If you are ready to push yourself, then join us on the Saturday Morning ICC Chain Gang route, 30-ish miles of pure... well, you know. We meet at the Old Bridge come rain or shine and normally form two groups, fast, and not-quite-so-fast. Keep an eye on the Ride App listing for any changes or updates.
All riders are welcome to join, but before joining be sure you are comfortable riding in a tight "through and off" (also know as rolling paceline) formation. If not, then talk to the ride leaders before setting off. You can always hang off the back to see how it works until you are ready to join.
The three most common route variations are:
- One Lap
- Two Laps
- Chevin Edition (more climbing!)
825 Cooperative Chain Gang
The 825 group leaves promptly at - you guessed it - 8:25am. This is a cooperative ride. The goal is to go fast while riding smoothly and safely. We endeavor to stay together, including on the hills. That means that faster riders are expected to throttle back their efforts, except on the return when some may sprint for the Otley town sign, and on the A65 bypass into Ilkley where those who have not yet burnt enough calories are expected to lay down a maximal effort.
Sometimes the faster riders will leave with the 825 group, though they are expected to play by the Group's rules, i.e. smooth efforts without surges that break the ride's rhythm.
The emphasis of this group is also always on safe riding. New riders are reminded to keep their heads up, always scanning ahead: avoid being mesmerised by the wheel in front.