FAQ
Sandymount Dodder Wheelers is a social, adult only, club with weekday and weekend organised spins. Our aim is to suit every level from a beginner to a more seasoned cyclist. It is important to note that all our members must be registered with Cycling Ireland under the classification of Leisure Membership before they can join us on any club spins. Further information can be found in our FAQ
Alternatively, please get in touch and we will do our best to help you with your enquiry.
Please find below a number of the common questions that we are asked on a regular basis. We update this section regularly to keep both our existing and potential members informed.
How much is membership and do I need a Cycling Ireland membership?
Current Members
Club Membership is €25 per annum. You must also pay a Cycling Ireland Membership Fee (€65 per annum for Leisure Members. This also enables you to enter any of the Sportives Nationwide). Both of these are done at the same time.
New Members
If you are joining for the first time you need to obtain Cycling Ireland Membership under the category of Leisure Membership (You will be asked if you would you like to join an official cycling club? Answer YES then complete the following: Province : Leinster _ County : Dublin _ Club : Sandymount Dodder Wheelers). Once you have applied (and paid the appropriate fees), we will be duly notified and we will provide you with an introductory pack.
Having successfully joined, we will then ask you to review some material relating to safety and the club. Following this you will be provided access to the various What’s App Groups where you will obtain information/links regarding weekly spins.
All new members are required to participate in two Green Spins so the Group Leader can assess your ability. Following this (again, depending on your ability) you may join any of the weekly group spins.
An overview of our WhatsApp Groups
All members can join the Sandymount Dodder Wheelers community of WhatsApp Groups. We use the SDW Admin Group to communicate to all club members regarding weekly spins, events and safety related topics. We have an additional SDW Chat Group open to all members to participate. This is for cycling ONLY related discussions and NOT for non-cycling related topics.
What level of fitness is required for leisure cycling in our club?
Generally a reasonable level of fitness is required (defined as the ability to continuously ride a minimum of 60KM in 3+ hours (ie a minimum average speed of 18-20km/h). Above this all levels of fitness and abilities are catered for.
What are Gold, Red, Yellow, Blue & Green Groups?
These are the classifications we use for different leisure groups within the club. These mean that members can choose to ride with a group that they feel comfortable with and also can move between groups as makes sense based on their abilities (and mood!).
Please see more for speeds related to the various classifications.
What is the typical distance of a leisure spin?
Typically between 40km and 80km but training spins for some events can be over a greater distance. Spin routes are listed on the Google Documents file well in advance and are also shared a few days before so you can decide which group and distance are best for you depending on how you feel.
What do I need to bring on a Spin?
Hard shell helmet.
Road bike in good working order.
Emergency Contact Details.
Tyres and brakes must be in good condition.
Pump, tyre levers and spare tubes are mandatory for road side repairs.
Food, water bottle, money and rain jacket.
Is there a coffee stop?
As Sandymount Dodder Wheelers is a leisure club, there is always a coffee stop (or two depending on the distance). Your ride leader will communicate these to you at the start of the spin and although circumstances on the spin may change and there is some flexibility there will always be a coffee stop (and a cake). Your ride leader will let you know before you start your spin what the planned stops are – sometimes these change depending on circumstances.
Do I have to wear club kit?
Part of being a member of a club is identifying yourself with that club and, while we do not currently have a mandate for wearing club kit, general cycling etiquette and a pride in our club would indicate that wearing our kit is preferable on club rides and while at club cycling events.