Frequently Asked Questions

How do I join the WFCC?

Waltham Forest Cycling Campaign (WFCC) is one of the London Cycling Campaign’s (LCC) local groups. To join WFCC all you have to do is join the London Cycling Campaign and you automatically become a member. You can do this at:
http://www.lcc.org.uk/index.asp?PageID=47

How can I get more involved?

There are lots of ways you can get involved. Our monthly meeting at the Hornbeam centre is a good starting point (see Events Diary). This will give you a taste of what's going on and what we do and maybe you can pick your particular area of expertise or interest before you get actively involved. You can also meet other local cyclists, chat and plan social rides.

I’m not always able to attend meetings are there other ways I can get involved?

You can also get involved with our campaigning side by joining our Yahoo Group. Here you will get regular updates on our meetings and campaigns. You can raise issues through the Yahoo Group and get support and ideas about how to take them forward.

Where do I buy a bike or get my bike maintained?

Waltham Forest Council runs a bike maintenance and recycling scheme at Low Hall Depot - follow the 'Bike Maintenance' link on the left for more details.

There are a number of bike shops in the borough (look in a yellow pages under 'Cycle Shops and Repairs' and your postcode), however the one most often recommended by our members is Heales in Highams Park.

Some bike shops offer discounts to LCC members. A list of these is available in the LCC monthly magazine.

Any Cycling Tips for Beginners?

Riding routes with a bike buddy is a good way to get route and bike skills help. Email our group with details of your start and end points to see if anyone can help you.

The London Borough of Waltham Forest also does free two hour road skills courses for adults. These are a really good way to get road time with a trained instructor. Click here to visit their web page.

How long and how difficult are your rides?

The rides are usually pretty gentle and normally between 30 and 35 miles at the most. Although it is best to check our rides page or ring the leader before attending to make sure.

Where do your rides go?

We tend to ride along the canals, or quiet streets to places of interest (eg museums, gardens parks, landmarks etc). We also do rides out into the countryside. Some of these might be train or tube assisted and if so this will be made clear before the start of the ride. Full details of all our rides and what you need to have for each one are given on our Events Diary page.

What do I need to bring on a ride?

You will obviously need a bike which is in reasonable condition – working brakes and gears and good firm (properly pumped up) tyres. You will also need lights and some reflective clothing especially in winter. You can also wear a cycle helmet if you wish. You should bring a packed lunch or money to buy lunch; some water or other soft drink to keep you hydrated. Finally don’t forget a puncture repair kit, spare tube and pump just in case.