FAQs

Where do you meet?

The Saturday ride starts promptly from the Linlithgow Leisure Centre at 9.00am

And from the East Calder Sports Centre. During the Winter the ride starts at 8.30am. In the Summer it starts at 8.00am. On the first Saturday of the month the East Calder ride leaves at 8.00am to meet up with the Linlithgow group.

The Sunday ride ride starts promptly fromthe Cross in Linlithgow at 9.00am

Do I have to be a member to come along on a club run?

We welcome all potential new members, so please feel free to come along as it's a good way to find out more about West Lothian Clarion. If you like the ride, join up.

I want to ride with you. How fit do I have to be?

Our rides are not suitable for those who are new to cycling or occasional leisure cyclists. But if you are regularly riding at least 30 miles in about 2.5 hours and are looking to develop your abilities in the company of others, our social rides would be an ideal and welcoming place to start.

Do I have to tell anyone or ask?

We'd like it if you got in contact before you come on a ride so we can make sure there'll be other riders out. Likewise, if you have any questions about our rides please email: clubruns@westlothianclarion.co.uk

Do you meet every Saturday and Sunday?

Yes, even if it's snowing members have been known to go out. Every now and again, circumstances might mean no one manages to make it out. If that's the case please don't lose heart, try again the following week.

What do I need to bring on a club run?

Pump, spare inner tube, tyre levers, puncture kit, multi tool, rain jacket, snacks, water bottle, mudguards. You should be capable of repairing a puncture. In the Winter fit mudguards. Also, bring some cash so if the ride stops at a café, you can get something to eat and drink.

I'm not local and want to drive to the ride, where can I park?

We encourage riders to cyle to the start but on a Saturday there is plenty of space at the Linlithgow Leisure Centre for our Linlithgow start and East Calder Sports Centre for our East Calder start. On a Sunday there is plenty of parking space in Linlithgow.

What sort of distance and pace can I expect on your club rides?

See the club runs page for more information

I want to get fit for racing and cyclosportives like the Etape de Caledonia.

Then come along and start with our club runs. Over time, build up the mileage and join up with other members of the club for training rides and you'll be well on your way.

I only have a mountain bike and I want to go out on the road rides. Is this ok?

Yes, but for your own sake stick some slicks on and a set of pedals that you 'click' in to. You will be able to keep up.

What about mudguards?

In the winter they will keep you and those behind you dry so its only polite to have them fitted. Modern versions like SKS Race Blades can be fitted to most bikes. During the summer months it isn't a requirement.

Do I have to have all the gear?

Your bike doesn't have to be fancy, just reliable. It is always a good idea to ask around other club members for advice on what to spend your money on. They often have a lot of good quality used stuff for sale. We have our own club jersey, which you can buy. read more

What about insurance?
You should accept responsibility for your own conduct and safety (including the safety of your bicycle and other equipment) during Club activities. You are responsible for your safety, individuals take part in any group rides at their own risk. West Lothian Clarion and its club members accept no responsibility for the safety of anyone participating in group rides, and no liability in the event of an accident. We strongly recommend that you take out appropriate third party insurance for your own sake. CTC membership can be taken out via the club's affiliation for as little as £12 when you join us.

Cars scare me. Do you go anywhere quiet?

Yes cars scare us as well. We keep to the quiet country lanes that criss-cross West Lothian. so we don't see that many cars on our rides.

Is there a minimum age?

15-17 year olds can participate if accompanied by a parent or guardian, otherwise the minimum age is 18.

How did the club start up?

The club began after Sadiq Mir set up a thread on the Bike Radar forum looking for local cyclist in West Lothian. The club has develped over the years, from a few riders meeting informally, to a fully established club with a consitution, affiliation to the Scottish Cycling Union, our own kit and a programme of events and club runs.

If you are interested in how we started take a look at the original forum on Bike Radar

Boots and Spurs what does that mean?

Traditionally Clarion riders greet each other by saying "Boots!" and respond by saying "Spurs!" It comes from when Clarion newspaper editor Robert Blatchford, used to sit in the barracks late at night telling stories between friends...to make sure their listeners were still awake, the storyteller would say 'Boots!' those stil awake would reply 'Spurs!', the story would continue. 'Boots and Spurs' continues to be the Clarion call to this day.