Who we are and what we do
Cycling UK, formerly known as the CTC, is a national cycling charity that inspires and helps people to cycle and keep cycling. It encourages all types of cycling, on the road or off it. It supports you if you already ride, or would like to ride, to work or school, for health, touring, sport and leisure – or just because it's fun.
Winchester CTC is the local group of Cycling UK. It covers the area in and around Winchester (including Chandlers Ford and Bishops Waltham); we also welcome riders from outside this area on our extensive and varied rides programme. The group also campaigns locally for better cycle facilities. Members of Winchester CTC range from those who like to ride 20-30 miles to those who ride Sportifs and events of over 1000km. Some members also enjoy touring in the UK and abroad.
Rides: We offer a range of cycle rides throughout the year. These range from short, easy rides suitable for novice cyclists to more challenging rides that are longer and faster. We also put on open challenge events and some events jointly arranged with Southampton CTC. Each ride has a leader who decides the route and makes sure that nobody gets left behind.
For a full description of our rides, see Our Rides page. The current rides programme is shown in the Club Calendar.
Bike: all you need is a roadworthy bike. You'll find life a lot easier on a reasonably lightweight road, gravel or touring bike rather than a heavy bike or mountain bike with knobbly tyres. Don't be put off trying one of our rides because you think you don't have the right bike. We can advise on how you can adapt your existing bike and provide expert advice if you want to buy a new one.
Membership: Because Winchester CTC is part of Cycling UK, you join us by becoming a member of Cycling UK. You don't need to be a member of Cycling UK when you first come out on a ride with Winchester CTC. You can ride as our guest for up to three rides to see whether you like us. Membership is national and when you join Cycling UK, you can ride with any CTC/Cycling UK group anywhere in the country. Membership also provides you with £10 million 3rd party insurance cover plus free technical and legal advice and a bi-monthly magazine.
- How to join Cycling UK (external link)
Coming out on your first ride with us? Please read the information in our Notes for Riders and contact the Club Secretary if you have any questions or concerns.