Getting kitted up and ready to go is half the battle with your cycling fundraiser.
If you’re getting ready to take part in the Devon Air Ambulance Cycle Challenge, a little preparation goes a long way.
Devon’s cyclists are limbering up to tackle one of three exciting East Devon routes this September: the 30‑mile beginner‑friendly route, the 50‑mile ride, or the 100‑mile challenge across the Blackdown Hills. Irrespective of the route you choose, having the right kit will help you ride confidently, comfortably and safely.
As a non‑competitive Devon charity cycle ride, this event is foremost about enjoying the journey, supporting fellow riders and raising vital funds for our time-critical service. To help you feel ready, we’ve compiled a practical guide for your ride. To make your ride as comfortable as it can be, take a look through the essential kit checklist:
A properly fitted helmet
A well‑fitting cycle helmet that’s worn correctly is essential for every rider, regardless of distance. Make sure it’s comfortable, correctly adjusted and meets safety standards. A helmet that is too tight will give you a headache – especially as you heat up! While a helmet that is too loose risks not providing adequate protection should you take a drop. Never buy a secondhand helmet and replace your helmet periodically according to the manufacturer guidelines.
Lights & visibility
Even for a daytime September cycling event in Devon, front and rear lights are recommended, especially if conditions change. It may be early autumn, but no weather event is unheard of these days, and a sudden downpour can turn things dark very swiftly. Reflective clothing or accessories are a smart and lightweight addition for riding through shaded lanes in East Devon and the Blackdown Hills so you can be visible to other road users.
Water & nutrition
Hydration is key to any charity bike ride – especially when you’re tackling Devon hills! Bring at least one bottle (two for longer routes) and easy‑to‑eat snacks or energy bars to keep you fuelled. The best way to carry your water is in bottle cages and most bikes come with the mountings to easily fit them and secure your bottle. (If you’ve not used one before, it’s worth practising taking your bottle out of the cage and replacing it before the event!). Pockets in clothes or cycle jerseys or a velcro mounted bike bar bag provides useful storage for bars, gels and snacks.
Tools & spares
A basic repair kit can be a ride‑saver. You can pick up one that stores in a bag that fits snugly beneath the bike seat. These typically include:
- Spare inner tube
- Tyre levers
- Mini pump or CO₂ inflator or tube slime sealant
- Multi‑tool
- You won’t need to be a mechanic, just prepared.
Choosing the right bike
The Devon Cycle Challenge welcomes a range of cyclists and bikes, provided they’re road‑worthy and well maintained. For the new-to-cycle-challengers, there are several bikes that are suitable:
Road bikes
Ideal for the 100‑mile cycle Devon route and longer distances, offering speed and efficiency on quieter roads.
Hybrid bikes
A great choice for the 50‑mile bike ride Devon or 30‑mile cycle route Devon, balancing comfort and performance.
E‑bikes
E‑bikes are welcome and can make the Devon Cycle Challenge more accessible, particularly for newer or more occasional cyclists. Just remember to charge your battery fully before setting off.
Comfort & confidence extras
Up hills and down dales, 30, 50 or 100 miles, feeling comfortable for the event is vital, and there are ways to ensure you’re as comfortable as you can possibly be, which include:
- Padded bike shorts or leggings
- Gloves to reduce hand fatigue and chaffing
- Sunglasses to protect against wind and glare (don’t forget the sun cream)
- Lightweight waterproof or gilet for changing weather
Small comforts can make a big difference and you want to minimise your chances of paying for your efforts the next day with sunburn or blisters.
Riding for a reason
By choosing to cycle for Devon Air Ambulance, you’re doing more than completing a personal challenge. Every mile helps fund lifesaving missions across the South West, supporting our crew so they can respond when every second counts.
This September is your chance to ride to raise money for our service and to be part of something special.
Ready to roll?
If you haven’t already, now’s the time to sign up to the Devon Air Ambulance Cycle Challenge and secure your place in one of the best cycle events Devon has to offer this September.
Join the Devon Air Ambulance charity bike ride this September and start your journey towards a safe, successful – and hugely rewarding – ride.
Secure your spot on one of the three routes of this year’s challenge!
