The Bike Shop Racing

The Bike Shop Ride Club

FAQ

Below are some frequently asked questions about the club:
Please contact us if you have any other questions!

Link What sorts of riding does the club do?

  • Mountain biking — XC & trail rides;
  • Winter fat-tire biking — Rides in West Bragg Creek require 3.7” fat tires or larger; rides in South Fish Creek Park, Bowmont Park, COP Eastlands & Nose Hill Park require Plus tires;
  • Gravel rides;
  • Road rides.

Link What time(s) of year does the club ride?

Year-round, but winter riding is weather-dependent. ☃️

Link What do I need to bring to rides?

  • A well-maintained bike suitable for the ride’s terrain;
  • A basic repair kit & spare parts;
  • A helmet;
  • Clothes for changing weather conditions;
  • Snacks & water. 🍫

Link What happens if I’m the slowest rider in the group?

  • Ride Club rides are “No Drop”; we like to be inclusive and make sure nobody is left behind.
  • If the group size is large enough we will break into multiple groups, each with a leader and sweep.

Link How long are the rides?

  • Mountain biking — intermediate rides are 8–15km; advanced rides are 15+km;
  • Fat tire — intermediate rides are 8–12 km; advanced rides are 12+km;
  • Gravel Rides — 50km;
  • Road Rides — 40km on weekdays, 50-100km on weekends.

Link Where do you ride?

  • Mountain biking — Fish Creek Park, Bowmont Park, Nose hill Park, West Bragg Creek, Moose Mountain, Husky-Prairie Mountain, Canmore/Banff;
  • Fat Tire Biking — West Bragg Creek (3.7” fat tires or larger required), Fish Creek Park, Shaganappi Nordic Operations - Shaganappi Golf Course, Bowmont Park, Nose hill Park (plus tires OK);
  • Gravel Rides — ?
  • Road Rides — ?

Link What experience level is required?

  • The Ride Club hosts intermediate-to-advanced rides.
  • Ride levels will be determined by average speed.
  • All rides are “No Drop”, unless stated otherwise.

Link What fitness level is required?

  • An intermediate fitness level will be OK for intermediate rides.
  • Longer rides with more elevation gain will require a higher fitness level.
  • Approximate distance & elevation gain will be published ahead of time for rides.

Link What happens if I’m late to the ride?

Ride start times are posted in our app, and to be considerate to other members we start on-time.

Link What happens if I have a mechanical issue?

  • Riders should be on a mechanically sound bike (we know a guy, if you need help fixing/maintaining your bike; as a member you get a discount on parts).
  • Riders should carry basic tools & spare parts.
  • Within groups many basic trail-side repairs can be facilitated.

Link Do we hang out after rides?

  • We are social after rides; if you have time, please feel free to join us and BYOB. 🍻
  • We also offer some Ride Club events throughout the year, keep an eye on the Events section of the Stack Team app.

Link How do I sign up for rides?

  • All rides & communications are facilitated within the Stack Team app.
  • To register for a ride or event select one of the “Yes”, “No” or “Maybe” options.
  • Feel free to post comments on individual rides if you have any questions.
  • Download the app from the Apple or Google Play app stores.

Link Is membership required to join the rides?

  • Yes, to become a member of the Ride Club you will require ABA insurance, or proof of ABA Insurance through another club, a signed ABA liability waiver, and The Ride Club YYC membership.
  • The minimum level of ABA insurance required is a “General Non-Racing Membership” that costs $45.
  • The Ride Club YYC membership fee is $25 and helps cover expenses associated with the club.
  • All fees are paid to the ABA.
  • Optional clothing kit can be purchased. 👕

Link How does one become a member?

  • Folow the steps here.
  • Ride Club registration & license fees (insurance coverage) will be collected through the ABA.
  • Registration is completed on Zone4.

Link What if I already have ABA insurance?

If you have an ABA membership through another club, you will be asked to provide proof during the signup process. Don’t purchase a second license!

Link Are e-bikes allowed on rides?

Yep! ⚡️

Link Are dogs and/or other pets allowed on rides?

No, sorry.

Link I don’t know the area… will I get lost?

No! Ride leaders will make sure everyone is comfortable with the route. We also stop to regroup periodically.

Link Is there a minimum age for members?

The minimum age for members is 17 years old; a junior still requires intermediate bike handling skills & fitness level.