Cramond and South Queensferry

Event introduction

This 31 mile distance event including 379 metres of ascent being led by Douglas is suitable for all bikes and most abilities. It’s doable on a road bike if you don’t mind it being bumpy in a few spots. If you have recently completed a 20 mile cycle ride, you should be well suited to complete the ride.

The event will mostly take place on quiet roads and established cycle paths. If tides permit, it may be possible to include a visit to Cramond Island accessible by a mile long tidal causeway. We will include a refreshment stop in South Queensferry with views of the iconic Forth rail and road bridges.

Please note: All our bike rides are primarily social events, rather than focussed on speed; therefore we always cycle at the pace of the slowest rider. The finish time is  always estimated and could finish later than planned. Please bear this in mind when paying for parking or booking trains etc.  

Route introduction

A map of the route including elevation can be viewed and downloaded at: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/36307415

This bike ride event will be travelling on a mixture of quiet roads, traffic-free paved cycle way, gravel trail and canal tow path, but we will try to stick to the roads with least traffic. you have a GPS device or navigation app on your phone, please feel free to download the route for use on the event. This is optional and not required.

Who's welcome on the event?

In a nutshell, everyone, as long as they are respectul of other attendees. PRiDE OUT is an LGBTQ + cycling group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, intersex and asexual/ace people. We also welcome allies.

COVID19

We ask that all riders respect social distancing guidelines wherever possible. We encourage riders to bring masks and hand sanitiser, just in case you need them before, during or after the event.

First event?

We know it can be nerve-racking joining a new group or event where you haven’t met anyone before… even for the most confident of people. We’ve all been in the same boat before, so we want to make everyone feel welcome. If you’d appreciate chatting someone before the event or having a buddy to meet you prior to going to the start point, please let us know by sending an email to hello@prideout.co.uk with the subject line ‘request a buddy’.

Pace of the ride

The purpose of the ride is to get some easy exercise at a moderate pace while being able to socialise in a relaxed environment. We will regularly stop to allow people to catch up. We never leave people behind.

Terrain and potential hazards

This bike ride event will be travelling on a mixture of quiet roads, busy roads and cycle paths, but we will try to stick to the roads with least traffic. Hazards you may need to watch out for include bumpy paths in parts and potential broken glass.

Hazards you may need to watch out for include bumpy paths and loose gravel. Care must also be taken at narrow overbridges. The traffic-free sections are shared with pedestrians, joggers, dog walkers and horse riders, to whom we should always give way and alert with our bells when approaching from behind.

What bike should I use and what condition does it need to be in?

This event is suitable for mountain bikes, hybrids, e-bikes and (with care) road bikes that are in good mechanical order. Please have your tyres pumped to the correct pressure and with oil on the chain etc. 

We highly recommend you carry out an 'M Check' before coming on the event to ensure you and your bike will be safe - watch this 4 minute video to see how to do this.

Refreshment breaks

There will be a lunch stop around halfway at a shop, pub or cafe so bring some money. Please bring a bike lock to keep your bike safe!

At the end we often like to have a drink which is a great social opportunity to chat to other people that you didn't get a chance to during the bike ride - it would be great if you could join us … don’t forget to bring a bike lock to keep your bike safe!

What else should I bring?

We advise you wear a helmet for your own safety, but it's not compulsory. You should also consider bringing some of the following: spare inner tube and tyre levers, any special tools your bike needs, some food or snacks for energy, bottle(s) attached to your bike and plenty of water, bike lock and glasses can be useful to prevent grit or insects getting in your eyes. Please wear/bring waterproof or warm clothes dependent on the time of year and weather forecast. Bring lights if you are likely to be travelling in the dark or wet weather is forecast. Please have footwear that is appropriate for your bike. Don't forget suncream (if it's summer) - you just never know with the UK weather!

Meeting point description

Meet by the cycle racks outside Haymarket station – a short cycle from Edinburgh city centre and served by regular rail services from many parts of Scotland.

Any finally…

Have fun on the event. We promise to make you feel welcome and we’re sure you will meet some amazing new people. Please try to avoid cancelling at the last minute - it could deny someone else the opportunity to attend the bike ride. If you have any queries or need assistance, please email hello@prideout.co.uk and we will put you in touch with the event leader.