Are you a new bike rider? Or one who is returning to bicycling after a long interruption, or new to the Westchester Cycle Club? The WCC's New Members Committee is here to help. Anyone in the committee is glad to answer your questions about the WCC or about cycling, and to give you suggestions on how to get started. Committee members are:
| New Members Committee | |
| Al Kaplan | 914-234-6476 |
| Marty Feldman | 914-273-1812 |
| Judy Gordon | 914-747-3424 |
| Mike Miller | 914-472-8690 |
New Member Notes
By Al Kaplan - updated 2/04/08
All new members are welcome to contact any of us on the New Member Committee if you have any questions about the club, the rides, equipment, trips, or meetings. All new members are welcome to contact any of us on the New Member Committee if you have any questions about the club, the rides, equipment, trips, or meetings.
The New Member Ride
Early each month, we usually have a ride geared to new members; check our ride schedule and look for "new member" in the descriptions. This ride is relatively short, and taken at a gentle pace. The ride leader, typically someone in the New Members Committee, will be there to answer questions and ease you in to the joys of group riding.
For you first ride
Have your bike in good working order with tires properly filled. The local bike shops can check and "tune up" your bike. Bring your helmet, water, and a spare tube. Dress in layers and be sure to use sunscreen.
The right ride level for you
If you are a new member with limited cycling experience, you'll probably want to start at the "D" level. Check the monthly ride schedule in the newsletter and pick a D ride of about 20 miles or less. Read the description to be sure it matches up with your assessment of your abilities. If you're unsure, call the leader and discuss the ride and your abilities with him/her. We want you to have fun, to gain confidence, and to improve. It may seem hard at first, but don't get discouraged. If you stick with it, you'll surprise yourself with your progress.
About buying a new bike
There are many good bikes available. For road riding, a road bike with thin tires and drop handle bars is your best choice. Road bike frames are made of steel alloys, aluminum, carbon fiber and titanium. Shimano is the most commonly found manufacturer of drivetrain components and these are offered at different price points. Give us (the New Member Committee members) a call if you would like help in selecting a bike.
Monthly meetings
Join us at our monthly meeting. You will see a timely presentation, enjoy a nice dinner and socialize with other club members. We look forward to meeting you.
About the Westchester Cycle Club
Our club is organized and run by a dedicated group of cyclists who love the sport. The board members and ride leaders are all volunteers who devote many hours of their time to the club. Our rides are rated A, B, C, and D which relate to the pace and terrain of the ride. If you are a new biker, always start at the D level. If you want to move to the next level, your ride leader will advise you as to when you are ready. The most important part of club riding is not the ride level but just to have a good time.
Beginning Cycling
The WCC is a member of the League of American Bicyclists, an organization which promotes cycling for fun, fitness, and transportation through advocacy and education.