Isle of Wight

This will be a hillier ride than our normal easy rides. We have, however, chosen a route that includes a long section along a (flat) cycle track alongside the Medina. We'll also take our time so - if you need to push up a hill - it won't be a problem.

The ride will be weather dependent. We'll go only if the weather is good enough. Please check this page before joining the ride.

We'll meet at the car ferry terminal in Portsmouth to catch the 9:30 ferry.

We'll have 'elevenses' on the way over.

We'll make our way via National Cycle Route 22 - a mix of roads and cycle paths - from Fishbourne to Newport where we'll stop for lunch at the quay. There are places here to have a picnic, as well as a pub or two.

Next, we'll follow the cycle path all the way along the west bank of the Medina to Cowes. We'll use the ferry to cross the Medina and work our way back to Fishbourne using the coastal path.

Ride notes

I've uploaded the track we took...

Click to show the route

Loading the route, please wait...

Show full screen

Download the KML/KMZ file

Download a GPX version

Notes:

• There is no longer a 9:30 sailing, we took the 10:00 instead.
• The path through the woods at the start of the ride was a little rough and undulating but by-passed a bigger hill and traffic coming off the ferry joining the main road.
• Turning left onto the A3054 the pavement on the left hand side is a shared cycle track. This is unclear at the start (you have to go behind a bus stop) and - if you miss it - there are few good opportunities to get onto it. Worth stopping at the end of the track to work out where you are supposed to go.
• We originally planned to stop for lunch at Newport, but we got there way too early and had lunch in East Cowes instead. There's more selection of eating places in Cowes, though. The track shows I had lunch on the esplanade; there's a public toilet and small café at the end.

 

Ride leader notes

I ride an assistance e-bike which allows me to do most hills. I have a range extender that allows me to do 80-90 hilly miles or further for flatter rides.

My maximum comfortable speed on the flat without wind is 13mph at the start of a ride. I find, however, I can manage faster speeds after a few hours of riding. I struggle with balance when riding speeds lower than around 7mph.

Otherwise, I don't mind about pace when leading or joining rides. I'm out to enjoy the ride and speed is not part of that for me.

I get the biggest kick out of supporting new riders when they find out they can achieve much more than they thought.

About easy rides

Our easy rides are designed to be an introduction to club riding. You needn't be concerned about whether you can manage the pace or distance. The easy rides are leisurely and informal. They go at the pace of the slowest rider. We will not leave you behind. If necessary we will split the ride to ensure everyone enjoys it.

The ride is designed for people of average fitness and is open to everyone. There’s no charge for joining the ride. You’ll be riding for two to three hours with a break in the middle at a tea shop. We’ll be using dedicated cycle tracks and cycle lanes wherever possible. We’ll also be using country lanes and back streets.

Inevitably, though, you will be travelling in traffic for part of the way, so the ride is not suitable for people that are uncomfortable cycling on the road.

Cycling is a great way to improve health and well-being, and you’ll find we're a friendly bunch. We’d love to see you.

This article describes what you should consider bringing with you.

For more information contact Dee Warner, the easy ride organiser.