Velo utilizes
a ride rating scheme to assist cyclists in selecting tours which
are within their capabilities and which they will enjoy. Of course
every ride is subject to weather, road conditions, and the mood
of its riders. Therefore these rating codes should be considered
as a guide only. In general, rides increase in difficulty from
D (for delightful...being easy) to A (for animal...being extremely
difficult).
D
Rides...
...have a relaxed
pace, suitable for novice cyclists. These rides are supervised
with a leader and a sweep, who carry basic tools and patch kits.
Velo encourages all cyclists to be as self-sufficient as possible
and to carry their own basic tools, including a pump and a spare
tube. These rides have plenty of rest stops and a set route.
C
Rides...
...are sociable
outings, with a leader and sometimes a sweep. These rides run
a moderate, fixed distance of up to 60 KM, with occasional stops,
and maintain a relaxed touring pace suitable for beginners.
B
Rides...
...are intended
for experienced cyclists. Each rider is expected to be self-sufficient
and responsible for their own bike and person. Rest stops are
as arranged by the participants. Routes are flexible and may be
as long as 162 KM per day.
A
Rides...
...are for
very experienced, strong, self-sufficient cyclists who enjoy a
challenge. An example of an 'A' ride would be a 320 KM ride in
one sitting.
Velo offers
four main types of rides:
Wednesday
evening rides are short local rides suitable for everyone. They
offer an opportunity to ride at a relaxed pace with time to socialize,
while at the same time improving riding skills and ability.
Tuesday and
Thursday evening hammer rides are faster paced without scheduled
stops and riders are free to ride at their own pace. Riders are
expected to be self-sufficient. Some rides could end as late as
11:00pm and lights are mandatory.
Day rides
take place every Sunday from the end of March through mid-November.
They vary in distance, difficulty and content. Consult the schedule
to determine the distance, ride rating (see Ride Ratings) and
further particulars for each event. Most day rides offer a shorter
option than the listed distance.
Multi-day
tours are offered throughout Atlantic Canada, and frequently other
provinces and countries. This season, there are several car-camping
and touring weekends offered. Additionally there are four touring
holidays; Denmark, Newfoundland/St. Pierre and Miquelon, the Cabot
Trail and northern New Brunswick/Maine.
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