Windmill Cycle Club

Windmill Cycle Club, located in Hitchin, is a vibrant and inclusive cycling community dedicated to promoting a love for mountain biking and the great outdoors. As an informal group, Windmill Cycle Club offers a range of activities and benefits to its members, making it a popular choice for cyclists of all levels and backgrounds.

One of the key features of Windmill Cycle Club is its commitment to providing free rides in Hertfordshire and beyond. Members can join in on scheduled rides, which are organised on both Thursdays and Sunday mornings. These rides are designed to accommodate different skill levels and typically cover distances ranging from 15 to 30 miles, depending on the season and weather conditions. For safety reasons, it is essential for riders to have a functioning front and rear light, as well as a helmet.

In addition to the regular rides, the club also organises off-bike social events and trip planning meetings to foster camaraderie among its members. These gatherings provide an opportunity for cyclists to connect, share experiences, and discuss upcoming adventures. Windmill Cycle Club believes in the power of encouragement, and every new joiner is welcomed with open arms, regardless of their skill level or experience. The experienced riders within the club are always willing to share their knowledge and offer guidance to help others improve their technique.

Windmill Cycle Club prides itself on its extensive local trail knowledge, which has been built up over many years. Members can benefit from this accumulated wisdom, gaining valuable insights into the best trails in the area and beyond. The club also has excellent links and discounts with local bike shops, ensuring that members receive the support they need when it comes to maintenance and advice.

At Windmill Cycle Club, there are no rigid rules to restrict members. The club strongly believes in individual freedom and encourages everyone to participate in leading or following rides. The only non-negotiable requirement is wearing a helmet during rides to prioritise rider safety. Windmill Cycle Club also fosters a positive and inclusive environment, where any form of discrimination or prejudice is not tolerated.

While not an officially registered club, Windmill Cycle Club retains a warm and welcoming atmosphere as cyclists come together to enjoy the thrill of mountain biking. The club acknowledges that mountain biking can be a challenging and potentially dangerous sport, but it places utmost importance on ensuring that members never push themselves beyond their abilities. The focus is on enjoyment and personal growth.

Windmill Cycle Club is composed of individuals from various professional backgrounds, including labourers, lawyers, scaffolders, scientists, designers, and more. These diverse backgrounds fade into insignificance as the members unite under their shared passion for mountain biking and the great outdoors. The club is not concerned with elitism or snobbery, and it places no importance on the brand or cost of a member's bike. Skill and enthusiasm are valued above all.

In terms of scheduling, the club offers Thursday Night Rides (TNR), which start at 19:30 from the Windmill Pub in Charlton, unless otherwise stated on the club's Facebook page. TNRs are approximately 20 miles in length, with shorter distances during the winter months. A reliable front and rear light, as well as a helmet, are mandatory for these rides. Rides usually conclude at a pub in Hitchin, and the more experienced riders ensure new members unfamiliar with the area are returned to the Windmill Pub.

Sunday Morning Rides start at 09:00 and also depart from the Windmill Pub in Charlton, unless stated otherwise on Facebook. These rides cover distances between 15 and 30 miles, depending on conditions. Occasionally, the group may make stops for refreshments along the way. Post-ride, members can gather in Hitchin Town Square for frothy coffees and cake, creating a perfect opportunity for post-ride relaxation and camaraderie.

Come and join Windmill Cycle Club in Hitchin, where you will be made very welcome. Whether you are an experienced rider or looking to get back on your bike, the club offers fantastic opportunities for adventure, skill development, and friendship.