Route queries
Q: Will I be cycling on the roads?
A: Yes, you will be cycling on the roads along with the usual Sunday morning traffic. Our priority is that you have a fantastic day, and remain safe throughout the ride. When planning the London Bikeathon we consult all the relevant authorities including the police and ambulance services.
We are not allowed to close the roads to traffic, but we do try to keep the route on designated cycle paths where possible. The routes are fully signed, and marshals are present at various points along the roads. Route guides are also sent out prior to the event, and we suggest you read them and try to familiarise yourself with the ride.
If at any time you feel unsafe, please walk with your bike on the pavement. There is a help line number on the route guide if you have trouble on the day.
Q: Are the routes suitable for children?
A: Minimum age for the Scenic and City rides is 14 unaccompanied, or 12 if accompanied by a parent or guardian with acceptance of liability. Minimum age for the Challenge ride is 16 years old.
The Scenic route may be more suitable for younger or less confident riders as it has more off-road riding through Richmond Park and less traffic.
We have a separate fully marshalled circular Children’s ride, set within the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea for the under 12s. Children can do as many laps of the 500m circuit as they like, and we have special stampers to make sure they don’t lose count. All riders receive a medal for taking part. Parents/guardians are unable to ride but are more than welcome to cheer from the sidelines.
Q: Where do the routes go?
A: City Ride: start at the Royal Hospital Chelsea or Thames Barrier Park and cycle past some of London’s famous landmarks, the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral etc. Cycle out to the east of London and around Docklands.
Scenic Ride: start at the Royal Hospital Chelsea or Ham Common and cycle through Richmond Park, and along some of the Thames towpath.
Challenge Ride: start at the Royal Hospital Chelsea only, and combine the City and Scenic routes in a 52-mile ride.
Bikeathon Kidz Ride: a marshalled circular route set within the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. Children cycle round a 500m circuit, and can do as many laps of the circuit as they want.
Q: Are there any hills on the routes?
A: The routes are mostly flat, but there are two a short hills on the Scenic route in Richmond Park.
Q: How fit do I need to be to do the London Bikeathon?
A: The London Bikeathon is a fun cycle ride; it is not a race! You can therefore cycle at a pace that is appropriate to your ability. We do however recommend that you try to cycle in the weeks preceding the Bikeathon, especially if you have not been on a bike for a while.
On the day you can decide whether to cycle a 26 or 13-mile route for either the City or Scenic ride. The turnaround points will be clearly marked on your route guide and on the route itself. There are stations on the route that allow you to rest and get refreshments; please make full use of them.
Please note that the 52-mile ride is a more demanding route so please ensure that your fitness level will meet the demands of the route. See training tips page
