Orwell Wheelers Cycling Club runs organised weekly spins that are open to all from October until 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 and ability (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 group that meets on alternate weekends (riding concurrently with the spin from Dundrum) at the Papal Cross in Phoenix Park. This north-side group is open to all except absolute beginners.

A link to this year's spin roster is in the sidebar. The roster contains maps to the most likely route that will be taken on the day by each group as well as a list of group leaders.

Sunday spins start at Joe Daly's at 9:30am

Spin Groups

We're trying out a new system of sorting riders this year. Gone are the Beginners, Step-Up, Intermediate and Fast groups. We are bringing in a colour-coded system that is graded depending on the average speed of the spin. Of course, average speed is highly weather dependent, but it will give you a general idea of what you can expect on one of these spins.

New riders with no previous club experience will start in the white or yellow groups to learn how to cycle in a bunch and basic cycling rules. More experienced riders will slot in with a group that suits their fitness level. As the season progresses, group riders who are deemed too strong or too weak for a given group will be prompted to move to a more appropriate group in order to maintain the listed average speeds. The great thing about being the biggest cycling club in Ireland is that you will always find a group that is going your speed. 

Here are the new groups:

 White  

Average speed: 20-22kph
Distance: 60-80km 
Skills: Group skills
New to the sport. Those who may be uneasy or unaccustomed to riding in groups. Spins will start at around 60km in length. Great fun for those starting out. 

 Yellow  

Average speed: 22-24kph
Distance: 60-80km 
Skills: Group skills, increasing distance and average speed
Riders who have a feel for the sport but may still need to gain some experience in riding in a group. Spins will start at 60km in length at a slightly faster pace than White.

 Orange  

Average speed: 24-26kph
Distance: 60-100km 
Skills: Improving climbing skills, increasing distance and average speed
This group is for stronger riders who like a little bit more of a challenge and are comfortable riding in a group. Good training group for sportives such as the Wicklow 200.

 Red  (old Intermediate group)

Average speed: 26-29kph
Distance: 70-120km 
Skills: Improving climbing skills, increasing distance and average speed
This group is for those who have a good level of fitness, are experienced in cycling in a group, and are up for longer spins at a higher pace. This is a good group for working towards racing. A coffee break is not unheard of, but has become rare of late. The spins will start at around 70km and work up to about 100-120km as the season progresses.

In addition to the 4 main groups, we have some specialist racing groups.

 Club League  (old Step-Up group)

Average speed: 30+kph
Skills: Interval training, sprinting and race skills
Strong riders who are new to racing and would like to improve their skills in order to partake in Inter Club League races and open races. Not for the faint-hearted. Expect to be knackered after this one.

 Gory 3 Day and Rás Training Groups 

Distance: Will be decided by group leader
Elite riders only. Training will be specific to stage racing. Please contact Dave McLoughlin if you are interested in joining either of these groups. 

Related news article: Find Your Group!

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.