Level 1 (Novice Rides)

The Essex Roads Novice Rides are just what is says on the label – ‘For Novices!’
If you are a beginner on a bike then these are the rides for you. You will need to be able to ride a bike on the road of course and understand the basics of the Highway Code. Please do not attend these rides if you have never ridden on the road before.

The Novice Rides at Essex Roads are engineered just for you. You don’t need a fancy bike, however something with smooth tyres would be to your advantage. It’s ok to bring your mountain bike to this level of ride. We also strongly suggest that you wear a helmet.
Where we meet for Sunday runs
At a junction

You don’t need fancy clothing or previous miles under your belt. We just go nice and gentle. Your age is inconsequential too – riders join us of all ages and abilities and sexes. The Novice Rides go at a slow pace, over undulating terrain, and no big hills. We also choose quiet roads which are relatively free from traffic – particularly on a Sunday morning. We go at the pace of the slowest rider, and if you drop back we all wait for you to recover/catch up. And don’t worry – you won’t be left. The mileage is short (about 20 miles) and we definitely stop for a break at a nice café, where tea, coffee, toast, buns and cake are likely to be consumed.

There are lots of advantages cycling in a group. You will learn lots about bike control, road positioning and how to keep pace with others. It can also be to your advantage in that you will be able to ‘draft’ others by sitting behind them thus saving energy. You can also take a turn at the front if you feel able. What’s for sure is that you will be on quiet country roads you’ve probably never been on before.

You could start with our novice rides to gain an indication of your fitness level then go on to our Touring Rides which go a bit quicker and further. You do what suits you best.

All our Novice Rides start and finish at Sun Corner, Billericay (see map insert). We meet there at 9:00 a.m. outside the Police Station. From there, we take a variety of routes along quiet country roads that you’ve probably never been down before. We are usually back in Billericay about midday, or you can turn off earlier if it’s easier for you to get home.
On the road

Here are some questions and answers about Novice Rides: -


I’m not a member of Essex Roads. Do I have to join in order to ride?
No, we welcome all cyclists. You don’t have to be a member, but if you want to ride regularly we would of course provide you with every incentive to come and join our very friendly club.

I want to ride with you. Do I have to be super fit to join in?
No, If you can ride at least 20 miles or so in distance you should be fit enough.

What if I can't keep up because I'm slow?
Don’t worry. We always ride at the speed of the slowest rider and if you get dropped, we stop and wait for you! It’s quite normal to stop for breaks too, along the way as our abilities are very mixed, even amongst experienced cyclists.

What time do you start?
At 09:00.

Where do you start from?
We start from Sun Corner, Billericay. It’s at the southern end of the high street outside the Police Station (see map opposite).

When do the rides take place?
Always on a Sunday.

Can I park my car somewhere near the start?
Yes, there are two car parks in Billericay High Street. The entrances are next to ‘New Look’ (the council car park), and next to Peter Murray Solicitors (the Waitrose car park). Both are free on a Sunday (see map opposite).

Where do you finish?
We return to the start at Sun Corner or you can peel off sooner if you like.

How long do the rides last for?
About two to three hours, depending on distance, weather conditions, abilities and stops.

How many attend the Sunday rides?
Usually between five and twenty riders, sometimes a lot more.

Do you stop for refreshments?
Yes, we try to plan at least one major stop, usually at a well known tea-house.

Should I eat before the ride?
Definitely yes! It’s good to have some food inside you before hand. So have a hearty breakfast.
Where we meet for Sunday runs

What sort of bike do I need?
Basically, anything which you normally use and are comfortable on over 20 miles and preferably with smooth tyres. You are advised however, to make provisions for punctures, your protection against the elements, and you might find it useful to fit some mudguards during the winter to prevent other riders being soaked with dirty road spray, and to avoid getting your bottom wet!

What sort of clothing do I need?
It all depends on the expected weather conditions, so please have a look at the weather forecast beforehand. It’s probably better to over-dress and expect the worse. You can always carry discarded clothing with you. Don’t forget your sun cream if it’s going to be hot – liberally applied to arms, legs, face, ears and neck.

When don’t you go out?
When it’s very windy, during heavy rain or when, during winter it’s likely to be slippery.

Do you ride on main roads only?
We try and get on to country lanes as much as possible. Our riders tend to know where they are going, so stick to the smoothest, nicest and prettiest routes available.

Do I have to cycle up inclines?
Yes, unfortunately, although this is Essex it’s not entirely flat, but essentially gently undulating. We will keep the hills to the minimum.

OK, what do I do next?
Have a look at the Events Calendar,  and just turn up on the day. We look forward to meeting you!