Sunday 14th April 2019 will see the latest edition of the VC Walcot ‘Classics’ Ride where members and guests take on some of the less hospitable lanes around the city of Bath, in honour of the even more legendary Paris-Roubaix race happening on the same day over in France.

Race Captain Arran Armstrong speaks: “Spring! And it’s that time again; the Velo Club Walcot’s Classics Ride, our seasonal nod to the one-day classics and Paris-Roubaix in particular. As always, this year’s ride will be start at 0900hrs 14th April 2019 at the usual place. This year is a similar format to last; a number of different routes to suit all abilities, and then to the Brewhouse where we have the downstairs area with the big screen showing Paris-Roubaix. More details on drinks offers at the Brewhouse soon.”

“As we mention each year, some of the roads we use for the Classics Ride are not often frequented, so the road surface – if present – can be rough and gravelly, but perfectly OK for a road bike as long as you take it easy, especially on the downhills. I’ve tested most of the route in winter and have had no problems. But I wouldn’t suggest that you ride on your £3,000 set of deep-section carbons.”

“This year I have four routes to cover all abilities, which are detailed below. Some parts are ‘slightly’ off-road, but a good surface all the same. Also, you’ll note that none of the routes stray far from Bath, so if you do feel like you’ve reached your limit then it won’t take long to get back to town and get the beer flowing at the Brewhouse.

VC Walcot Classic Ride Routes 2019

Green Route: 30 miles with 2,750ft of climbing – check out Strava for route and download here

Amber Route: 42 miles with 3,500ft of climbing – check out Strava for route and download here

Red Route: 46 miles with 4,200ft of ascent – check out Strava for route and download here

Sigourney ‘Alien’ Weaver Route: 55 miles with 5,400ft of ascent – this will turn your blood to acid. check out Strava for route and download here

The Après Ride drinks and Paris-Roubaix viewing on Eurosport at The Brewhouse from about 1230hrs is open to everyone, so friends, family and other cycling clubs are all welcome. A good chance to meet the intrepid members of Velo Club Walcot and maybe get some new people out on their bikes.

Remember the spirit of the VCW Classics Ride is not how fast you go, but fun, fun fun! Hopefully you’ll enjoy some of the picturesque lanes that you may not have ridden before.

Remember, the VC Walcot Classics Ride is only as hard as you make it; a gentle spin or smashing it up the short sharp climbs – it’s up to you. With four routes this year, I hope we have catered for everyone’s abilities.

Any questions, just email: hello@vc-walcot.co.uk

Bath Brew House details here

If you want to read up on the Paris-Roubaix race we’re celebrating, it’s all here