London to Paris Bike Ride 2013 FAQs
Is this trip for me?
Absolutely! This bike ride is suitable for people of 18 years and over. The one thing everyone will have in common is a great sense of adventure and the desire to help Sense! Most people will sign up as individuals, meaning you will all be in the same situation!
How fit do I need to be?
This cycle ride has been designed to be challenging, but achievable by anyone as long as you train beforehand. Remember, you are cycling for 4 days consecutively, covering approximately 300 miles so expect to be in the saddle for about 7-8hrs per day – the fitter you are the more you will enjoy this challenge!
Where will we stay?
We will stay in local 2 star and 3 star hotels en route - remember, this is a challenge! Rooms are usually twin share, but there may be the use of some triple rooms too.
Do I need specialist kit?
We will supply you with a kit list of what to take once you register to take part. Each participant will need to bring their own bicycle for this challenge. Road bikes are highly recommended. Other items of kit will be required, such as cycling shorts, cycling helmet and cycling gloves. Other than this you do not need any specialist kit.
Do I have to carry my own luggage?
No! All luggage will be transported by our support vehicles. You will need to carry a small day pack/'camelbak' whilst cycling, to carry items such as a camera, sun-screen and energy snacks.
Food matters…
All meals will be provided with the exception of breakfast on day 1, the evening meal on the ferry crossing from Dover to Calais and lunch and dinner on day 5. Whilst cycling, we will either stop at local cafes/restaurants or eat open air buffets – this depends on the size of our group. We cater for all dietary requirements so long as we know in advance.
What’s included?
- one-way ferry crossing from Dover to Calais, one way Eurostar ticket from Paris to London
- all accommodation with the exception of the evening prior to the start of the challenge
- lunch on day 1, breakfast, lunch and dinner on days 2, 3 and 4, breakfast on day 5
- water/refreshment/snack stops – one in the morning and one in the afternoon
- vehicles for back up and support
- route markers, English speaking guides, mechanic and medical support
- transfer of bicycles back to starting venue in London
- basic spare parts will be taken but please note, we cannot cater for every eventuality, therefore it is vital to ensure that your bike is in full working order and good condition. You will be billed for any spare parts used in repairing your bike.
What’s not included?
Accommodation the night prior to the start of the challenge, breakfast on day 1, evening meal on the ferry crossing from Dover to Calais, lunch and dinner on day 5, alcoholic drinks and tips, bicycle hire, bicycle insurance and travel insurance.
Can I stay in Paris after the challenge?
You are welcome to stay in Paris as long as you wish but you will need to make your own arrangements and remember you will need to keep your bicycle with you too. Your return Eurostar ticket is non-transferrable and non-refundable so you will need to make arrangements for that too.
What sort of back-up is there?
There will be a strong support team with professional Global Adventure Challenges leaders from the UK. Full, comprehensive medical kits will be taken and we are never too far away from hospitals if needed. A support vehicle with a medic and mechanic will follow the group providing support if needed.
What happens if I get tired?
There will be regular rest stops for drinks and snacks after approximately every 20 miles of cycling. There is no problem if you need to take more rest stops. A support vehicle will be bringing up the rear of the group on the cycle ride ensuring no one is left alone – remember though, this is not a race!
How do I go about raising the sponsorship?
Once you have signed up you will receive a fundraising pack from Sense in order to make your fundraising as easy as possible. You will also receive lots of hints and tips from us along the way!
I’m interested…what do I do now?
Places are limited so try to register as soon as you can! You need to fill in our online registration form and pay the registration fee of £89. Once we have received your registration form, we will contact you via telephone to sign you up!
I have more questions! Who do I ask?
Please contact the Sense Events team on 0845 127 0063 or email us at events@sense.org.uk.
First published: Friday 31 August 2012
Updated: Monday 3 December 2012
