Frequently Asked Questions

---

 At the moment, no.  We currently cannot allow guest riders due to our insurance policy.

 If you are new to group riding, you must first complete an introductory skills session prior to having your membership application accepted. This ensures that all new members are familiar with our procedures and can ride in a group with a level of competency, confidence and safety needed.

No.  Membership payment does not cover the cost of your team jersey.  All members are required to purchase team jersey and socks upon approval of membership.

 Our value is rooted in our DNA.  They inform our decisions and our vision of cycling in Austin. They are inspired by our members and what we ask cyclists to aspire to when choosing us as a club. 

We are extremely diverse, fun, and friendly.  We are an inclusive club where all members should feel happy to participate in all our activities. We welcome anyone interested in the sport or cycling regardless of sex, age, disability, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, religion or other beliefs. We do not discriminate.  

We aim to never leave anyone behind, take collective responsibility for the safety and enjoyment of everyone on a ride, and we give and receive constructive feedback on how to continually improve the club, it's culture, ride routes, technologies, and etc.

Our club is run by members, for members. Volunteering is at the heart of everything we do.   As a club, we support other nonprofit organizations.  Our biggest support is delivered to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.  Since 2020, we have raised $34,464 in the fight against MS.  

 Yes. Helmets are required on all club rides.  Absolutely no exceptions.

 If you wish to return a garment, it must be unused and returned in its original packaging within 3 days of receipt. You do this at your own risk, proof of postage is not proof of delivery, so we suggest you use a recorded delivery service, or in person.  

If you wish to order a replacement garment for the returned one,  e.g., you need a different size, please do this separately by placing a new order. 

Road cycling involves riding a road bike on paved roads.  Road bikes are known for their drop handlebar, low weight, smooth and narrow tires, aggressive geometry, and aerodynamics.

Designed to transfer power more efficiently from your muscles to your pedals, clipless pedals attach to a cleat on the bottom of your shoe, allowing you to ride faster without exerting more effort as you can both push down and pull up on the pedals, and smooth out your pedal stroke for more efficiency. While most road cyclists use them, they’re certainly not necessary, especially if you’re still getting comfortable with the skills of cycling, like bike handling or gear shifting.  

No you don't.  However, to be a member of our club, proper cycling apparel is required.  For the "ordinary Joe", just get on your bike and ride.  While you’re probably used to seeing road cyclists rock skin-tight Lycra, there’s no law saying you need to do the same.

The idea that you have to wear specific clothes to be a “real” cyclist is pure nonsense.  That said, there are a few reasons why cyclists gravitate towards clothing made specifically for cycling:

     (A).  They provide a tight and aerodynamic fitting.  

     (B).  Tight fitting shorts and jerseys also provide sweat-wicking properties.

     (C).  Padded shorts can make riding in the saddle more comfortable.

 If you’re not experiencing any aches, pains, or numbness, you can probably get away with not having one done.  Professional bike fitting can cost anywhere from $129 to $250.  If you are experiencing a bit of discomfort, you can always search the internet for video tutorials on how to make simple adjustments to your bike.  

 At a minimum, make sure to your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure.   If you’re running tubeless tires, you’ll also need to add sealant periodically. 

You should also clean and lubricate your chain periodically. Just how often you need to lube your chain depends on the climate, conditions, and how many miles you’re logging. But if you’re hearing a squeaking noise coming from your drivetrain, it’s probably time to do so.

For performance reasons, you might want to replace your hybrid with a road bike.  Road bike geometry puts you in a lower and more aerodynamic position, which makes you much more efficient.

Don’t leave home without everything you need.  This  includes a tire lever, mini pump/CO2 cartridge, spare tube, water, snacks (carbohydrates), and electrolytes.

Yes, yes, yes.  Do not leave home without them.  The more visible you are, the safer you are.

The main reason to wear fingerless gloves is comfort.  They offer padding for the heel of your hands without limiting your dexterity, which you need to adjust your sunglasses, open energy bars, or adjust your bike computers.

Absolutely.  Whether you are riding 30 minutes or 3 hours, you must have water with you at all times.  Whether you think you’ll need a drink or not, bring water.

This is a personal preference, and a  trial by error experiment.  But if we allow science to lead the way, then there's only one way to go... carbohydrate snacks and sport drinks are your best friend.

Great question!  The short answer is yes and no.  It’s normal to feel some level of discomfort in the saddle at first, but if it persists beyond a few weeks of consistent riding, it’s time to make adjustments to your bike, invest in a quality saddle, padded cycling shorts, or seek professional bike fitting.