FAQ Overview
All FAQ from the category Riding
- What is the "BIG Meeting" ?
- Why do I have to pay a registration fee? Does it count toward my $2,200 minimum pledge amount?
- Do I need a road bike?
- What shape do I need to be in order to ride?
- What sort of equipment do I need?
- What is included/not included for riders during the rally?
- What is a rider team ?
What is the "BIG Meeting" ?
The "BIG Meeting" is an information session held in June, at which Bike Rally organizers provide details you need as a participant in the Friends For Life Bike Rally. This information includes the basics for new riders and crew as well as changes for returning participants. Participants are encouraged to ask questions during the meeting. It is also an opportunity to meet fellow participants and Team Leaders.
Be sure to make time in your busy schedule to attend the social that will immediately follow the BIG Meeting.
Why do I have to pay a registration fee? Does it count toward my $2,200 minimum pledge amount?
The registration fee includes your processing fee and registration kit. It is not included in the $2,200 minimum amount of pledges you have to raise to participate.
Do I need a road bike?
What shape do I need to be in order to ride?
You need the commitment to train, fundraise and learn how to take care of yourself and your bike on the road in the weeks leading up to the rally. There is plenty of support available to participants in preparation for the ride to Montreal.
Starting in early April, we organize weekend training rides that start at 30K and gradually increase to 120K. We hold educational seminars that focus on nutrition, training, and bike maintenance. We publish plenty of helpful cycling information and links to bike resources on our website and in our frequent e-News.
Each rider is assigned a Team Leader who is there to offer support and advice and to answer any questions you may have about the rally: what to expect, suggestions on fundraising, how to train, etc.
If you have health concerns, it is recommended that you consult your physician before commencing any new exercise program.
What sort of equipment do I need?
You should have a decent bike - if you are unsure that your current bike will make the journey, consult with a few bike stores first. Helmets are mandatory on all organized training rides and on the ride to Montreal.
You'll need the equipment to change a tire: a portable tire pump, spare tubes, a patch kit and tire levers. Other highly recommended cycling-related items are cycling gloves, good quality cycling shorts (in fact many riders say the shorts are more imprtant than the bike!), a rain jacket, cycling shoes, water bottles and holders or a hydration pack.
Please check our printable Packing List (PDF) for a more complete list.
What is included/not included for riders during the rally?
Once you raise your $2200, virtually everything during the bike rally is free. You will only be asked to supply your own equipment (bike, helmet, tent, camping gear etc.). All group meals (excluding dinner in Kingston and meals in Montreal), breaks, drinks, travel home by train (Montreal to Toronto) and accommodation for 6 nights is included.
What is a rider team ?
Your team will consist of two Team Leaders and approximately 20 Riders. Your Team Leaders are your first point of contact for any questions you may have about the ride.
The purpose of the team is to provide opportunities to meet other participants, receive and provide information, and generally provide support to one another. You do not have to ride together as a team. During the ride to Montreal, each team will be assigned a day to help the Food Crew with serving meals, to sweep the route by cycling behind the other Riders to help out if problems arise and removing bikes from trucks.
All attempts are made to create diverse teams with a mix of new and returning Riders grouped by geographic area. This encourages team social events or attending training rides or seminars together. If you have any questions about Bike Rally teams email: teamleader@bikerally.org.
What to expect from your Team Leaders
Team Leaders are returning Riders who provide a critical support and communication link to Riders assigned to their team. Team Leaders are also responsible for facilitating the training rides. Some other duties of Team Leaders are:
- Providing regular communication by e-mail or telephone
- Helping create a supportive environment for you and your teammates, particularly new Riders
- Providing a positive example of safe riding
- Attending training rides
- Keeping you and your teammates aware of Bike Rally training rides, events and meetings
- Monitoring and supporting your fundraising progress (but they cannot fundraise for you!)
- As your first line of support, addressing your questions or concerns about any aspect of the ride. They may not always have an immediate answer for you, but they can find out who does.
