Getting Started

Whatever your reason -

• New to the area and interested in cycling.

• Already doing some cycling on your own but are thinking about group spins.

• Maybe moving on from some other sport and thinking about taking up cycling.

• Looking for ways to improve your health and fitness.

• Looking to join a club to make friends and get fit, etc

  - there are lots of reasons to join Lakeside Wheelers Cycling Club - not least of which is cycling with others is always much more fun and you get to meet new friends and explore fabulous scenery on our regular planned cycle spins.

Once you have a suitable bicycle ( doesn't have to be brand new ) - just safe for cycling on, add a helmet and you are ready to go on a trial spin with one of our spin groups. More info on dates and times of Group Spins HERE.

All our weekend group spins start from Columb Barracks, Mullingar ( see map on contact page) and you will be most welcome to try out a spin or two with one of our spin groups - all you have to do is turn up a few minutes before the official start time and make yourself known - anyone in the group will point you to the the Group Leader for the day.

After a spin or two - you then need to become a member ( see details on the membership page) - mostly to ensure you are insured on spins and have access to our spin whatapp groups . Our regular spin group cycles and events are all included in the membership cost, and over time you can choose to enter into organised events by other clubs around the country.

The Basics:-

Safety: All cyclists must wear a helmet, and should wear cycling gloves to prevent cuts and bruises in case of a tumble. We also recommend cycling glasses to protect your eyes. When the weather is sunny, sun cream is also essential along with a drinking bottle attached to the bike with a bottle cage. Ideally, each cyclist should have a mobile telephone and all contact numbers with the group leaders.

Bike: Road bikes are recommended in preference to hybrids (which would be fine for initial years) or mountain bikes (which are much harder work over long distances). Bikes should be properly serviced, in a good state of repair, gears/chain oiled and with functioning brakes. Tyres should be pumped to proper pressure before each cycle to help avoid punctures. Carry a lock, two spare tubes, a pump, tyre levers, a multi-tool and water. Of course, a clean bike makes you look good and go faster. Group members will be more than helpful in suggesting how you care for your bike between rides.

Clothing: Proper cycling gear is recommended, including padded cycling shorts and a rain jacket. You can start with your own gear and in time if you like you can kitted out in our club gear

Age:- There is no upper or lower age limit for our spins - other than checking your competence to see which spin group is most appropriate to your skill levels. If you are 16 or under you must be accompanied by an Adult who will also be cycling with you on that day.

So go on, check out the cycle spin dates and times - all our spin groups are more than to assist beginners settle into our groups - we were all there once.

If you would like to find out more about us please fill in the form on the Contact Page. Happy Cycling!

Group Spins More Info

JOIN LAKESIDE WHEELERS CYCLING CLUB

Here's what some people are saying online about their love of cycling....

• For my mental health, its the best medicine

• The joy of cycling on country roads with friends

• Let’s be honest here, it really is about the coffee – the cycle is simply a means to get to the coffee stop and I focus on finding great coffee stops for great chats.

• My doctor recommended it as a means of recovery after a knee operation. She was so right!

• A great way to disconnect from the stresses of life.

• On my own its the peace that comes from the steady rhythm of the pedals and the hum of the tyres.... BLISS! In groups its the chatter that goes on throughout the cycle .

• The single exercise I genuinely most enjoy.

• The older I get the younger I feel - as I get to cycle almost every day.

• It's my transport, and my stress reliever and good for my mental and physical health,

• Cycling is my passion and it puts a smile on my face and that is why I cycle every chance I get.

• It’s fixing punctures in the rain, aching hands from stubborn tyres, and oil-stained fingers.
  It’s having no space left in the shed, the utility room, or even the sitting room.
  It’s the warm ache in the legs after a long ride and a wardrobe that’s 80% Lycra.

• It’s the cramps in my leg in bed that reminds me of how good todays cycle was for me, knowing it will get easier over time.

• It’s the friendships made on the road, the weekend spins, the coffee (and cake!), the trips abroad, and the random chats with strangers at a crossing or traffic lights.

• It’s the thrill of the sportives, the spectacle of the Ras, the buzz of the local Grand Prix, and even some gravel adventures.