FAQs
How long will it take to complete?
Two weeks to cycle from Land's End to John O'Groats. The total distance is just under 1000 miles, which means you'll be averaging 65 miles a day. Some days you will do more than that, some less. The early stages through Cornwall are tough because of the hilly terrain so you'll be doing less those days, aiming to increase the mileage as the journey progresses. I estimate that if you average 10 mph - which I think most cyclists can do - you'll actually be in the saddle 7 hours per day
What if I can't spare two whole weeks?
No problem. If you can only spare a few days, let us know and we will arrange for you to do part of the ride. You will be charged on a pro rata basis per day that you ride
How fit do I need to be?
You don't need to be super fit. I think most cyclists could manage 65 miles in a day if they had to. The challenge is doing the same for fourteen consecutive days. But any reasonably fit person should be able to do it. Evidently the fitter you are the easier you will find it. So I would urge you to decide on a training plan and stick to it. In the links section you will find links to various training plans. Whichever way you choose to train I would urge you to spend a considerable amount of time in the saddle of a real bike (not an exercise bike) so that you are used to what you're letting yourself in for. Build up to doing some long rides - up to 65 miles - and do some carrying what you would plan to carry during the day on the ride itself. Also, remember that your stamina will increase considerably during the trip.
£900 seems quite a lot. What is the money going towards?
We're doing what we can to keep our costs as low as possible and any surplus we make after covering our costs will bo back to the hospices we support. The costs go primarily to the cost of accommodation, running backup and maintenance services and also for any contingencies that may arise. We could reduce costs further by booking you into a campsite, but from experience I think it's better to stay somewhere you can relax properly and get a good night's sleep. When you factor in the fact that we'll have a back up van to move your stuff around and that we're taking all the organisational burden off you which involves a great deal of time and effort, I think you'll conclude that it's not unreasonable.
Can I put some of the sponsor money I raise towards the cost
That is what many people who do events of this sort do. This is why we ask you to pledge to raise £1800. I suggest that if you are using a sponsor form you make clear in the small print that a proportion of it may go towards the event. Of course if you want to pay for it all yourself and give all the money you raise to your charity that's great.
I just want to do the ride. I'm not interested in doing it for charity. Can I still book?
Sorry, no. I've decided to organise this purely for people interested in raising money for charity. If you have a charity other than a hospice charity, I would be happy to consider you.
What happens if there is a problem with my bike?
If it's a minor problem such as a puncture or a broken spoke or cable, we will help you to fix it. If you have a more serious problem we will endeavour to help you get to a bike shop. We will also have a backup bike that we could loan you in an emergency.
How do I know if my my road skills are up to it?
You can check out the new National Standard Cycle Training called 'Bikeability' which is aimed at adults as well as children.
The National Cycle Training Page of the CTC links to the national list of qualified instructors
What happens if I get injured?
We will be able to provide you with basic first aid. In the event of a more serious accident you should call an ambulance. Of course, while not legally obligatory we would urge you to wear a cycle helmet.
What about insurance?
We recommend that you take out insurance prior to the ride in case of accident or injury. We are currently looking into the best insurance deal for you and will provide more details in due course.
What about aches and pains?
Expect some. I recommend getting a gel saddle and padded cycle shorts for your bum. My main problem, however, was with my Achilles tendons which blew up enormously on my first LEJOG ride and I spent the whole ride taking painkillers as a result. This was cured second time around by using proper cycle shoes with a stiff sole and either toe clips or cleats. I would recommende toe-clips as you can get in and out of these more easily than cleats in my opinion.
Also try to get handlebars that you can ride on in multiple positions. This will help prevent you getting repetitive strain type injuries from constantly being in the same position. Ensure that your saddle is properly adjusted. If you're not sure about that get help from your local cycle shop. This will minimise the chances of knee injuries and injuries resulting from poor posture. Learn some basic stretching, yoga, pilates moves. And do them!
What happens if I don’t make it to the accommodation each night?
As we are booking the accommodation in advance we need to reach planned location every night. We hope you will be able to make it, but if you cannot we will pick you up and drop you off at your B&B.
Will I have to ride in a group or can I ride alone?
It's up to you. People tend to ride at different speeds and over such a long distance it's important that you ride at a speed that's comfortable for you. What tends to happen is that over a few days groups naturally form of people who go at the same speed.
What if I get lost?
We supply you with a map and directions plus a satnav if you want one. If you still get lost, ring us and we'll come find you!!
Will I see my fellow riders when not actually riding?
Where possible we will try and book you all into the same B&B. If that's not possible we'll try and keep you all as close together as we possibly can. Also, we'll book a table each night at a local restaurant. Of course it's up to you if you come along but this will give you a chance to swap stories. If you fancy a night off, however, to catch up on your rest, that's fine.