A series of two Saturday morning cycling events to be held on the following dates;
Saturday, November 1st, starting at 10.00hrs.
Saturday, December 6th, starting at 10.00hrs.
These events are not ‘massed start’ cycles races. They are off-road cycling time-trials that can be ridden by riders aged 12 and up!
What is a Cycling Time Trial?
Unlike a ‘massed start’ cycle race a cycling time trial is the simplest of all competitive cycling formats as it is essentially a race against the clock, with individual riders starting at one-minute intervals and covering either a simple ‘out and back’ course or a circuit course and it is the latter that we are proposing. As mentioned, individual riders are sent off at one-minute intervals by the start time-keeper and are given a finishing time by the finish time-keeper after completing the course. The one minute spacing normally ensures that riders are riding on their own but there are strict rules regarding unaccompanied riding that mean that a rider has to drop back at least 30 metres if they are overtaken. In a normal road cycling time-trial this minimises the inconvenience to other road users and this will equally apply to this proposed off road circuit.
What is the course like?
The course is an 8.5km loop up and around the Cwmwernderi Reservoir with a lot of climbing and a very long descent to the finish. The route will not be marked so you should make yourself familiar with the map.
What type of bike do I need?
A mountain-bike, cyclo-cross or a gravel bike is best. No e-bikes! Your bike will need working front and rear lights securely attached and you will need to wear a cycle helmet.
Meeting Place & Signing-on
For all events we will assemble at The Plaza in Port Talbot, SA13 1DH at 09.30hrs for signing-on and a pre-event safety briefing before riding up to the start on the local roads.
Part of the signing-on process will be a ‘clean wheels’ check. This is an essential, non-negotiable biosecurity measure to help prevent the accidental movement of pests and disease across the countryside. Riders whose bikes have dirty wheels (i.e. covered in mud or leaves) from previous rides will be excluded from the event. The pre-event safety briefing will also be an opportunity to remind all riders of the possibility, however remote, that members of the public might be on the course as pedestrians, as riders on horseback and as fellow cyclists.
This sounds great! How do I join in the fun?
Free entry to members of the Port Talbot Wheelers and just £5 for non-members!
Competitors over the age of 12 and under the age of 18 years may only compete with the written consent of their parent or guardian given on the 'parental consent' form.
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"The most important thing in life is not to have the most, but to need the least.” Plato (my favourite Disney character).
"The most important thing in life is not to have the most, but to need the least.” Plato (my favourite Disney character).
« Last edit by Alfie on Sun Nov 02, 2025 4:34 pm. »
