Western Jersey Wheelmen - Ride Categories


Looking for a ride suited for you? Following are the current categories of rides provided by WJW. While there could be a range of talent within a category, or even on a ride, YOU, the rider, should contact the ride leader to learn the anticipated pace, the terrain, and learn if your current abilities match the trip. Leaders should ensure they lead the pace they sign up for. Riders attending a slower-than-natural pace should not push the pace but rather drop the ride and move on or stay well behind the leader.

We can always use more ride leaders. Please do not hesitate to sign up for the next schedule. It’s your pace, your route, and your ride.

AA Same as A EXCEPT that the ride leader is not obligated to wait if you cannot maintain the pace.

A (Athletic) These are fast challenging rides that focus on a hard workout for the rider. Hilly terrain is hunted, infrequent rest stops (if at all), pelotons and pacelines abound.

B (Brisk) These are moderately fast rides over a variety of terrain, including hills. More times than not, there will be a rest stop near the halfway point. Ask the leader.

C (Comfortable) These are slower paced rides over a variety of terrain, seeking a flatter route, with some hills, given our territory. Riders should have some riding experience. Social and enjoyable pace, rest stop(s) expected.

D (Dawdle) Short in miles, slow in pace, social in nature. This category has been requested but we need ride leaders. If you would like to lead a D ride, do not hesitate to contact the monthly coordinator. Any mileage under 20 miles, any time, any starting location. Towpath rides are welcome here, too.

NM New Member rides are designed to introduce the club to a prospective members. Usually paired up with a C ride, NM rides are as slow as the slowest rider, if there is a NM candidate in the pack. If you already have riding experience and know your distance and mph, call the ride leader and see if you’re a match. Prospective members are allowed one ride before sending in your membership..

+ This indicator following a pace designation indicates the ride will be faster than a standard B, or C pace ride.

For example:
B+ is considered a fast B pace. You can expect A and B level riders to attend. A-riders should not push the pace and either drop off the ride or stay well behind the leader. As always, if you have a question about the ride, call the ride leader.

C+ is considered a fast C pace. You can expect B and C level riders to attend. B-riders should not push the pace and either drop off the ride or stay well behind the leader. As always, if you have a question about the ride, call the ride leader.

OR A/B/C – Off road A, B, and C rides are for those mountain bikes and hybrids that were made for just these types of rides; single track or railroad trails, towpaths, rocks, roots, and jumps. The level or conditions of the trail determines the pace and difficulty of the ride. You should call the ride leader for the details and conditions for riding.