Ride With Us

A core part of the Ottawa Bicycle Club experience is our schedule of regular group rides. Ride details are posted on the club’s online calendar and may also be shared by email.

These rides are a members-only benefit. Ride types vary, but all offer the chance to ride with like-minded cyclists combining fitness with a great social experience.

 

Road bike riders from behind
Members are usually asked to sign up for rides in advance. When choosing a ride, note the ride type (road, gravel, or women’s-only) and the distance and pace options. Pick the ride that best matches your experience, comfort level, fitness, and interests. If you’re new or less experienced, start with a shorter distance and a slower pace—it’s better to finish feeling strong than to struggle to keep up.
 
Want to find out if the OBC is a good fit for you? Give us a try!
Want to see if OBC is a good fit? Try a ride with a one-time Club Day Pass from Ontario Cycling (OC) through CCNBikes. It’s $10 for adults, and if you later join OBC/OC, the $10 is credited back during registration. To arrange a trial ride, contact our Group Riding Director at rides@ottawabicycleclub.ca

The posted start time is when we begin riding. Please arrive early so you’re ready to roll on time.

Before your ride, review the Education section for key tips to help keep our rides safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Two OBC riders on a tree-lined road in fall

Group Riding Clinic 

If you’re new to OBC or have limited experience riding in a group, you must complete OBC’s free Group Riding Technique training before joining club rides. This program will build your skills and confidence so you can ride safely and comfortably in a group.

What to Bring 

Nutrition
Each rider is responsible for carrying enough food and fluids for their needs. Some rides include planned stops where you can buy food or water, these will be advertised in advance but please come prepared in case a store or restaurant is unexpectedly closed. If the group stops at a pub or restaurant, remember these are businesses and may not allow outside food and drink. Many are happy to refill water bottles for paying customers.

Clothing
Be ready for changing weather. Dressing in layers works well for cooler starts that warm up later. If rain is possible, bring a lightweight (nylon) jacket.

Be prepared
You’re expected to be self-sufficient. Bring a pump, spare tube, and a basic tool kit for roadside repairs. One benefit of group rides is that others can help if needed.

Route
Know the planned route before you ride. Routes are usually available in advance through Ride with GPS for download to your device. A printed map and/or cue sheet is also a good backup.

Ride with GPS 

The Ottawa Bicycle Club uses a Ride with GPS to manage ride routes and give members added features on computers, smartphones, and GPS bike computers. Your OBC membership includes access to this club account.

The club account contains our route library. You can view the full list of features here: Club Benefits 

OBC members should receive an email invitation with a link to join the OBC Ride with GPS club account. If you didn’t receive it or can’t find it, contact the OBC office administrator, and we will resend your link.

  • If you already have a Ride with GPS account: log in and look under “Clubs” to find the OBC club account.

  • If you don’t have an account: you will be prompted to create one.