Before you apply for membership, we ask that you join us on at least 6 club runs, this gives you the opportunity to meet club members and decide if Darlington CC is the club for you.
If you decide to join, submit a completed membership form at one of the monthly club meetings with a membership fee of £10 (£5 for under 18's) and either proof of 3rd party insurance, or a £12 fee to cover affiliated membership of the CTC, which covers your 3rd party insurance.
Note: 3rd party insurance cover is a mandatory requirement of membership from 1st January 2010 and is available through British Cycling, The Cyclists Touring Club (CTC) or the League of Veteran Racing Cyclists (LVRC). As mentioned above affiliated membership of the CTC, including 3rd party insurance, is available for £12 per annum, payable with your annual subscription.
Sunday, from the Market Square, leaves 9:00am prompt! Steady ride. Contact Steve Fullerton - 07527 671 781
9:30am Tuesday and Thursday from the Blackwell Post Office. Steady ride. Contact Neil Wishart - 01325 282442
6:30pm Tuesday and Thursday from the Blackwell Post Office during the summer, 30+ miles. During April and September the ride starts at 6:00pm. Contact Mike on 01325 488066 or 07702 311081.
9:00am Saturday from the Blackwell Post Office. Barnard Castle with a café stop, can be fast depending on the weather and who's riding. Contact Mike on 01325 488066 or 07702 311081.
See the link to "Club Runs" on the left.
> Safety 1st - Remember, tarmac is harder than you!
> Obey traffic signs and signals, point out and call out any road hazards ahead. This is particularly important in a group of riders, as those at the back often can't see oncoming traffic or road hazards. "Car up" means car approaching from the front, "car down" means car behind.
> If road conditions permit groups normally ride two abreast. Remember that TWO is the limit, single out if necessary to stay safe and avoid holding up other traffic. Large groups may need to split to allow traffic to pass.
> When the riders on the front of the group decide they want a break, there are 3 options:
If you're struggling to keep up, stay at the back of the group
> Carry basic tools, at least a pump, spare tubes and a mobile phone. Decent mudguards will be appreciated by everyone during the winter months!
> Experienced riders sometimes ride very close together; don't panic if the rider next to you bumps bars or shoulders.
> Shout and signal if you intend to move out or stop. Riders at the front shout "clear" or "stopping" as they approach a junction, depending on the circumstances.
> Don't overlap wheels, if you contact the wheel in front you will probably come off, along with anyone behind you.
> When climbing hills, avoid following a wheel too closely, some riders move back when they get out of the saddle.
> If you're leaving the group, drop to the back and let someone know.
> "Half wheeling" is when one rider pushes the pace a little harder and moves slightly ahead of their riding partner. If you're on the front and the pace is too fast, take a break (and ignore any sarcasm!)
> In a group of cyclists there's always an element of competition, whether it's a town sign or the top of a hill - it's up to you, but remember to hold your line!