Group 1 Sunday Rides

Group 1 (G1) is a step up from Group 2. This is a friendly, but well paced ride for riders who may be looking towards competitive riding, whether that is sportives, road racing, time trialling or any other cycling disciplines. The normal distance is 60 – 80 miles, depending on the time of the year. Average speeds can be anything from 17 – 19mph, depending upon terrain.

The group meets every Sunday at 9.15am at the Royal Oak Pub car park, Green St Green, BR6 6BJ (see map). The usual leader is Michael Farla (right), our club captain. Click here to contact Michael for more details, or see the Events page of the website for details of the next run.

Group 1 stops if a rider punctures, has a mechanical issue and regularly re-groups so no one gets left behind. A cafe stop is usually included.

New riders are always welcome to join us for the Group 1 rides. Just turn up, introduce yourself and let one of the riders know it's your first time and we'll look after you. If you're unsure about your fitness, it may be best to try a Group 2 ride beforehand.

Group 1+ (G1+) is a group for the fastest riders from Group 1. G1+ follows the same route as G1 and stops at the same cafe. The pace is usually 1-2mph quicker than G1 as the G1+ caters for serious cyclists and racers.

G1+ meet at the same time and place as G1.

Use the links below to view recordings of some previous G1 rides, uploaded to Garmin Connect by some of our riders:

- G1 to Aylseford

- G1 to Staplehurst

- G1 to Groombridge

- G1 to Penshurst

- G1 to Rye

Club Run Rules

Riding in a group is very different from riding on your own. Other cyclists in the group are depending on you to ride in a safe and predictable manner, so it is important to adhere to 'group riding etiquette'. All of the Sunday club run rides, particularly Group 3, provide guidance to riders on how to ride in a group. By way of summary:

• NEVER brake sharply if there's someone behind you;
• Please point out the p-p-p-potholes;
• NEVER overtake another rider on the inside, unless you shout "coming through" or something similar;
• NEVER turn sharply right or left unless you give plenty of warning;
• If you are at the front of the group and miss a turning, do not make a last minute manoeuvre. Instead, continue past the junction and turn in your own good time.

Disclaimer:

Each rider understands and agrees that they participate in Club rides and events entirely at their own risk, that they must rely on their own ability in dealing with all hazards and that they must behave in a manner, which is safe for all others and themselves. They are aware that when riding on the public highway, they must observe the rules of the Highway Code. They agree that no liability whatsoever shall attach to any Member or Official of GS Avanti in respect of any injury or damage suffered by them, or any third party, or by reason of any event, however caused.