Club Spins OverviewOrwell Wheelers Cycling Club runs organised weekly spins that are open to all from October to March. They are for both men and women of a wide range of age and ability. Riders are split up into groups of similar fitness (see Spin Groups below).
Spins for all levels start from Joe Daly Cycles in Dundrum at 9:30am sharp, but those on the north side can join in with a faster group that meets on alternate weekends (riding concurrently with the spin from Dundrum) at the Papal Cross in Phoenix Park.
Click here to see the Winter Spin Roster.
Sunday spins start at Joe Daly's at 9:30am
Spin Groups
Beginners: This is a group for those who are new to the sport or are uneasy or unaccustomed to riding in groups. The spins will start at around 60km in length, gradually working up to around 90-100km as the season progresses. Great fun for those starting out.
Step-Up: This group is for those who have gained a certain level of fitness, are comfortable cycling with a group, and are up for slightly longer spins at a higher pace. The spins will start at at around 65-70km and work up to about 100-110km. Still fun, this one.
Intermediate: This group will go for a longer spin at a faster pace, but a coffee break is not unheard of. A great sense of accomplishment is always felt when you finish with this group. Later in the season, we will sometimes merge with the 'Fast Boys' so be prepared to be lying on the couch in a catatonic state for the rest of Sunday. Hopefully some televised sporting event will be available to rest your eyeballs on in the afternoon. Distances range from 80-120+km.
Fast Boys (and Girls): I think the name says it all. Not for the faint-hearted. You will be completely knackered after this one, but if you are a true Fast Boy/Girl, you will never admit it. If you get dropped, you're on your own. Bring a map.
Requirements
It is mandatory for each rider to wear a hard shell helmet while on club spins.
The following are also required to participate on these spins:
- Road racing bike in good working order (no mountain bikes, hybrids, straight handlebars or tribars)
- Quick release wheels
- Tires and brakes must be in good condition
- Pump, tyre levers and 2 spare tubes are mandatory for road side repairs
- Food, water bottle, money and rain jacket
If you want to continue to come out with the club, you will be required to join Orwell Wheelers as well as Cycling Ireland, with whom we are affiliated. All Orwell riders are Cycling Ireland members as this covers us from a 3rd party insurance viewpoint.
Beginner riders / New members
The beginner group will be lead by 2 experienced club riders over the winter and you need to be able to ride 60kms before you turn up for one of these spins. The purpose of these spins is to get you used to riding in groups and to build up the distance at a reasonable pace. The spins will increase in length every week after Christmas with cycles throughout the surrounding Dublin and Wicklow area. You can come out with us on a trial basis without being a member, but if you want to keep cycling with the club, you will need to become a member (for insurance purposes). Please see our membership page for more information.
