Charity bike rides

Gear up for a charity bike riding challenge

There are a whole host of charity bike rides to take part in across the country and beyond, suitable for cyclists of all ages and abilities.

Our award-winning Big Battlefield Bike Ride takes place annually to help raise funds for the Armed Forces community. Follow the link below to find out more about our yearly event.

If you're looking for a UK-based virtual cycling challenge you can do anytime, anywhere, check out our Heroes Ride 200.

Other events, such as the London to Brighton charity bike ride, give plenty of opportunities to get on your bike and raise money for charity - whether cycling is a newfound hobby or you’re a seasoned pro looking to take on a new challenge!

What do you need to take part in a charity bike ride?

The key to a successful bike ride definitely comes down to the planning involved, from ensuring you’re fit enough and deciding what distance is achievable, through to figuring out the best way to fundraise for your event, there is lots to consider.

Whether you're taking part in a short charity bike ride for fun or you’ve signed up to take part in a long-distance challenge, it’s important that you’re properly prepared and have the right equipment for the event.

Here are some of the items to consider:

Choosing your distance

Choose a distance that supports your own fitness levels and training plan. Are you a beginner or seasoned cyclist?

It’s important that you commit to a cycle ride that is within your ability and limits, so that you don’t injure yourself or push yourself too far. Of course, for cyclists that love nothing more than a challenge, there are also lots of endurance, long-distance charity bike rides in the UK, including John O’Groats to Land’s End and 100-mile charity bike rides.

Or, if you’re planning on taking your charity cycle adventure to a whole new level, why not sign up to an overseas charity bike ride challenge?

Finding an event near you

There are some good websites to help you find what's on the cycling calendar near you including Cycle UK, Find a Race, and Let's Do This.

It's also a good idea to check out your local news sites, cycling clubs and shops for event details.

It’s not just adults that can set their wheels in motion for a good cause, little ones love a charity bike ride too! There are lots of UK charity bike rides and family cycle events that big kids and little kids can enjoy together.

Planning your own event

Although there are many organised charity bike rides, many of our supporters also organise their own event and route, either alone or with a group of people. We've shared a couple of stories below.

There’s quite a bit to consider if you decide to embark on your own charity event, including choosing a route, implementing safety precautions, organising your support crew, transportation if required, as well as the legalities of the event. There is some good advice on the Cycle UK website for organising a bike ride.

You will also be responsible for finding and registering participants and your own marketing activities to promote it.