Cyclist at Pedal to Paris - DAY1-22 - 2022

Got a burning question?

Take a look at our general FAQs below for further information on the challenge.

Are RBL bike rides for me?

Our bike rides are aimed at keen amateurs and are designed for a broad range of experience, speeds and stamina. It is not competitive, and you do not need to have done anything like this before. However, we always recommend a sensible training programme leading up to the ride - as you will enjoy the event so much more if you are properly prepared.

Can I join on my own?

Yes, of course! Many of our supporters sign up for the challenge as an individual - this is a fantastic way to meet new friends. Just leave the team name blank when you register.

Can I join as part of a team?

Definitely! There is no minimum or maximum size of team. When you register, make sure to add your team name to ensure you are recognised as a team.

Are there any age restrictions to participate?

For safety reasons all participants must be aged over 18 at the start of the ride. Participants under the age of 18 at the start of the ride are subject to approval of the events team and they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

What does the price include?

Our prices are as all-inclusive as possible. All your meals and refreshments during the day of the challenge are included. Accommodation, outward travel from and return travel to the start point is also included. 

Dinner on the Friday night before the ferry can be added for an additional £25.

What isn't included in the price?

The costs of travel to and from the start points, accommodation before the ride begins, spares that are needed for your bike during the ride (although they will be fitted for free), insurance or insurance for your bike while in use or in transit or storage. Bar bills are also not included.

Have a question regarding health and equipment?

How fit do I have to be?

Anyone with a good level of fitness who commits to training can take part. There are regular stops, and each day has rolling terrain, this ride is targeted at new multi-day riders to intermediate cyclists.

Our training plans will help you on your way to getting the most out of the event. We do advise that anyone registering for the event is able to cycle 160km by the start of the event.

What if I have a medical condition?

Participants who are flagged by the event medics as being high risk may need to acquire permission from their GP or sign a self-health declaration to take part in the event. These participants will be contacted in advance of the ride to discuss if this is a requirement to take part.

What sort of bike do I need?

  • A standard hybrid or road bike will be sufficient for your needs. 

  • E-bikes are permitted but there is a limited number that can be taken on the ride due to charging facilities. Riders must contact the event organisers to confirm permission to bring an e-bike. 

  • Riders with e-bikes are responsible for their own parts and for bringing their own adapters and charging points. Riders are also responsible for ensuring their bike is fully charged each evening.

What do I need to bring with me for cycling?

A small pannier or backpack will suffice to take your essentials. The mechanic will provide all tools, so you do not need to carry these with you. We will provide a full kit list to help with your packing.

Want to find out more about the ride?

How do I follow the route and what is it like?

We will provide route information in advance to help you prepare but you don’t need to know the route as you will cycle with the guidance and support of ride captains and support vehicles.

Day 1 is approx. 104km, day 2 is approx. 166km, day 3 is approx. 80km. The terrain is hilly throughout with a total elevation of 2,600m (1,050m, 1,000m and 550m, respectively). You will be stopping regularly to visit historical sites or for a feed stop.

How much luggage should I bring and how should I transport it?

Bring one bag that is a maximum of 10kg. This will be transported for you by the event crew to each hotel. You do not need any formal clothing; we will provide a detailed kit list.

Do we cycle in a group?

There are speed groups that will travel at the average speed of the riders we have on the event. Groups will stop regularly and meet up together at historical sites. Even if you have never cycled in a group you will be fully supported by ride captains and other support crew.

Who organises the event?

The Royal British Legion has been organising its own bike rides for over 25 years and covers all organisational aspects for this ride.

What is the accommodation like for the multi-day events?

Accommodation is in 2-star (or more) hotels, standards may vary but they have ensuite facilities and are comfortable. Where possible we will always try to keep team members in the same hotels.

Will I be sharing a room with someone?

If you would like to share a room with someone specific, we can arrange this.

Participants will be paired up with someone a similar age and gender and a twin share is part of the trip.

If you would like to have your own room, you can request a single supplement at registration or a later date for an additional fee.

What is the food like on the multi-day events?

Breakfast and an evening meal will be served in the hotel. Feed stations will be spread over the route. We will provide energy drink and bars however if you have a preferred brand, please bring your own supplies. We do not provide energy gels so please bring these if you use them. Feed stations throughout the day are specifically designed to refuel you for the number of calories you will be burning. If you have specific things, you would like to have we can carry these for you and make them available at feed stations. We cater for all dietary requirements if you let us know in advance.

Need some fundraising support?

What fundraising support will I recieve?

Once you’ve signed up, you’ll receive a welcome email containing lots of information and advice about raising money for the Royal British Legion. Posters to publicise your participation in the event and collection pots are also available on request. In addition, the RBL team are on hand to support you every step of the way!

How do I go about raising money online?

When you register for the event your online fundraising page will be set up automatically.

Can we fundraise as a team?

Yes. This is very easy online, If you create a team when you register for the event team your online team page will be set up automatically. If you are joining a team that has already been created, you’ll be added to this team page.

Can I Gift Aid my personal donations?

Yes, if you are a UK taxpayer. You cannot claim Gift Aid on a donation from a public collection or fundraising event, unless each individual donor has submitted a Gift Aid Declaration. For more information, please read our Gift Aid information.

When do I have to submit my sponsorship money?

We ask that all sponsorship monies are sent to us no later than eight weeks after the last day of the ride.

What happens if unprecedented circumstances mean that the event is postponed?

We follow government guidelines and put the health and safety of our participants, staff and beneficiaries first and foremost. If it is necessary to postpone an event, we will be in touch to offer a choice of transfer or refund.

Please contact 0345 845 1945 if you’d like to know more about all we are doing. 

Any further questions?

If you have any other questions or would like more details on the items above, don’t forget you can always contact us at events@britishlegion.org.uk or call us on 0345 845 1945. 


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