FAQs

I just bought a mountain bike and I'm really excited to get out on the trails, but I'm brand new to the sport. Do I need more experience?
The best way to get experience is to ride. The Recreational group is perfect for the new rider. The pace is slower, with frequent regrouping. Plus, ride leaders are happy to stop so everyone can practice those tricky spots.

What if I can't keep up?
In cycling terms, when you can't keep up with the group you're riding with and they ride on without you, it's called getting "dropped". It's no fun. And nothing discourages a new rider faster. We have a strict no-drop policy at all times, for every level.

I don't know the trails or road routes well. Will I get lost?
The Recreational groups are always led by an experienced leader who knows the trails and road routes well. Combined with our no-drop policy, this means you won't get lost. 

I have a hybrid/gravel bike. Can I bring that on the trails?
Our Rec Road Rides are a perfect place to put some miles on that hybrid/gravel bike. But for trail rides you really do need a mountain bike. It doesn't have to be anything fancy, but for comfort and safety, you need to have front suspension and knobby tires.

I don't have a great bike. Will that be ok on the trails?                                                     Any bike is a good bike to get you started, provided it's a mountain bike. After all, you don't even know if you're going to stick with the sport and good bikes can be a good-sized investment. So, just get started on whatever mountain bike you have. If you fall in love with mountain biking, you will probably at some point want to upgrade. Quality bikes are just more enjoyable to ride. The chains don't fall off, the gears don't skip and they don't make all kinds of weird bangs and clangs while you ride - what even is all that noise anyway? And if you take care of it, a quality bike will take care of you for a long time to come. ​​

I'm an experienced rider. Will I be challenged enough with the Sunflowers?
While we're well known for the support and encouragement we offer new riders, the Sunflowers is a very diverse group. Many of our riders love to race and are always looking for new ways to challenge themselves and each other. We push each other to ride further, go faster, try out new techniques. But we also cheer each other on - whether it's at the finish line or taking on that huge log for the first time.

What is the age range and fitness levels of your members?
We range all the way from 11 to 70-something. Some members are just getting back on their bikes after 20 years, others are century riders. What matters more than age or fitness level is attitude - are you ready to try something new and have some fun?

Where do you ride?
We have so many fantastic trails and road routes in Niagara. To take advantage of this, club ride start locations change each month. Trails we cover regularly include Short Hills Provincial Park, the 12 Mile Creek trail system and Brock University. Road rides can include routes in St. Catharines, Pelham, Lincoln and NOTL.

Do I have to come to every ride?
No! There are three rides a week in order to give people as much flexibility as possible in their schedules. Some members may come out to 2-3 a week, but many only make it once a week or even once a month. It's completely up to you.

What do I need to bring?
You need a bike in good working order and a helmet, plus water, either in a bottle you can bring with you or in a hydration pack of some sort. It's a good idea to have a snack, a pump and either a patch kit or a spare tube with you as well. And cycling shorts, while not strictly a requirement, sure do make those longer rides a whole lot more enjoyable!