Subscription renewals are due on 1 January each year. If you are an existing member of the club and need to renew your membership, please transfer the relevant amount to the club’s bank account (including your name as the reference) or set up a standing order via Internet Banking. Contact the Treasurer or Membership Secretary for details.
Full membership £15
Family membership £25
Junior membership £5
If you wish to renew via secure card payment please proceed to our renewal page and select the appropriate membership type. A small additional charge applies to cover card processing costs.
If you are a British Cycling member or are considering joining British Cycling you may wish to renew via the British Cycling site. To do so, please continue to your personal dashboard on the British Cycling web site. Please note that British Cycling charge £1 per transaction to cover card processing charges.
The last date for paying subs without a break in membership is 31 March; any memberships unpaid by this date will lapse. Please note that if you joined on or after 1 October 2023, your membership is valid until the end of 2024 and you won’t need to renew until the start of 2025.
Beacon RCC has promoted an open 10-mile time trial nearly every year since 1978. The event is organised as a memorial to Janet Kelly, sadly killed whilst participating in the sport she loved so much. A trophy in Janet’s name is awarded to the fastest woman. Previous winners have included the legendary Beryl Burton, the Beacon’s own multiple national champion, Ruth Eyles, and UCI Gran Fondo TT World Champion, Jessica Rhodes-Jones.
Unfortunately it has been necessary to cancel the 2022 event.
Are you not of sound mind? Do you have an overwhelming urge for climbing lots of hills? Do you appreciate lovely tranquil scenery? Do you love riding challenging rustic lanes? Do you enjoy WI cakes? Do you fancy riding a 200km audax, returning back to the start and stating that you will, “never ride that again”, but turn up every year thereafter?
Then the Kidderminster Killer is for you. In all seriousness, this a great event and it is in its 38th year of running, minus lockdowns. Yes, it is a a challenging event and should be taken seriously but it is rewarding. You do not have to be an experienced audaxer to participate but it is a good idea to have good level of fitness.
The 2022 Kidderminster Killer takes place on Saturday 23 July. For full details and the entry link, please see our full event page.
This month’s Intro Ride is going to the Espresso Farm café at Umberslade Farm Park. Here’s a map of the route we plan to follow, which you can download to a GPS device:
We’ll cover roughly 56 kilometres (35 miles), mostly on quiet lanes. We’ll stop for refreshments at the Espresso Farm Café, approximately two-third of the way through the route.
Will it be hard?
You should be fine if you can already ride for an hour or two at an average of roughly 16-20kph (10-12mph). We’ll stick together and go at the pace of the slowest rider. We’ll ride for a total of about three hours, with a break at the café and maybe a breather at the top of one or two hills.
Who can join in?
Our Intro Rides are mainly for people new to club cycling and not yet confident about doing one of the main club runs. They’re ideal if you already cycle and fancy getting a bit more involved, or if you’re returning after a break. They provide a chance to get to know the club and decide whether it’s for you. If you’re very new to cycling, it’s probably best to do a few independent rides first, and join an Intro Ride once you’re comfortable riding for 90 minutes or so. Under-16s need an adult with them.
How do I join the ride?
At the moment, because of COVID precautions, Intro Rides are limited to eight people, including the leader(s). Everyone needs to be signed up in advance. To put your name down, either mail clubruns@beaconrcc.org.uk or answer the post on our message board.
Do I need a fancy bike?
No. For an Intro Ride, the main thing is that your bike is comfortable and reliable. Of course, it must also be legal, which basically means having two working brakes. For safety reasons, we don’t allow use of tri-bars on group rides.
Do I need special cycling gear?
No. Proper cycling clothing is generally more comfortable, especially for people riding far and/or fast. But that’s not us on an Intro Ride. It’s good to avoid things that flap about and you certainly don’t want anything that chafes. But things like sweatshirts, close-fitting jogging trousers and trainers are fine. Multiple thin layers are usually a good idea, especially in spring and autumn, when it’s often chilly early and warm later. When you start to sweat, you can take off the top layer and stuff it in a jersey pocket or bag.
What should I bring?
Bring a bottle of water and maybe something like an energy bar. You’ll also need a little money for refreshments. If there’s a chance of rain, have a lightweight waterproof in your pocket or bag. Most club cyclists carry a mobile phone and a credit/debit card in case of emergency.
Anything else I need to know?
Yes, you need to read our Club Run Guidelines. Also, while we’ll always do our best to help, it’s important to recognise a rescue service isn’t part of the deal. So have a think about how you’d manage if you were miles from home with a bike that won’t go. Could you phone home for a lift, for example?
This month’s Intro Ride is going to The View café in Wootton Wawen. Here’s a map of the route we plan to follow, which you can download to a GPS device:
We’ll cover roughly 52 kilometres (32 miles), mostly on quiet lanes. We’ll stop for refreshments at The View, approximately half the way through the route.
Will it be hard?
You should be fine if you can already ride for an hour or two at an average of roughly 16-20kph (10-12mph). We’ll stick together and go at the pace of the slowest rider. We’ll ride for a total of about three hours, with a break at the café and maybe a breather at the top of one or two hills.
Who can join in?
Our Intro Rides are mainly for people new to club cycling and not yet confident about doing one of the main club runs. They’re ideal if you already cycle and fancy getting a bit more involved, or if you’re returning after a break. They provide a chance to get to know the club and decide whether it’s for you. If you’re very new to cycling, it’s probably best to do a few independent rides first, and join an Intro Ride once you’re comfortable riding for 90 minutes or so. Under-16s need an adult with them.
How do I join the ride?
At the moment, because of COVID precautions, Intro Rides are limited to eight people, including the leader(s). Everyone needs to be signed up in advance. To put your name down, either mail clubruns@beaconrcc.org.uk or answer the post on our message board.
Do I need a fancy bike?
No. For an Intro Ride, the main thing is that your bike is comfortable and reliable. Of course, it must also be legal, which basically means having two working brakes. For safety reasons, we don’t allow use of tri-bars on group rides.
Do I need special cycling gear?
No. Proper cycling clothing is generally more comfortable, especially for people riding far and/or fast. But that’s not us on an Intro Ride. It’s good to avoid things that flap about and you certainly don’t want anything that chafes. But things like sweatshirts, close-fitting jogging trousers and trainers are fine. Multiple thin layers are usually a good idea, especially in spring and autumn, when it’s often chilly early and warm later. When you start to sweat, you can take off the top layer and stuff it in a jersey pocket or bag.
What should I bring?
Bring a bottle of water and maybe something like an energy bar. You’ll also need a little money for refreshments. If there’s a chance of rain, have a lightweight waterproof in your pocket or bag. Most club cyclists carry a mobile phone and a credit/debit card in case of emergency.
Anything else I need to know?
Yes, you need to read our Club Run Guidelines. Also, while we’ll always do our best to help, it’s important to recognise a rescue service isn’t part of the deal. So have a think about how you’d manage if you were miles from home with a bike that won’t go. Could you phone home for a lift, for example?
On Sunday 10 April, we’re going to be helping to organise a round of Behind Bars Sports’ 2022 Birmingham Business Park circuit race series. The day will feature 3rd cat, E/1/2/3 women, 3/4 and E/1/2 races. Entries are now open via the British Cycling website here. Half-price entry is available for Beacon members; details available here.
Update: Results are now available here. Thanks for everyone who raced or helped out!
This month’s Intro Ride is going to the café at Rowberry’s Garden Centre, Chaddesley Corbett. Here’s a map of the route we plan to follow, which you can download to a GPS device:
We’ll cover roughly 48 kilometres (30 miles), mostly on quiet lanes. We’ll stop for refreshments at Rowberry’s Garden Centre, approximately half the way through the route.
Will it be hard?
You should be fine if you can already ride for an hour or two at an average of roughly 16-20kph (10-12mph). We’ll stick together and go at the pace of the slowest rider. We’ll ride for a total of about three hours, with a break at the café and maybe a breather at the top of one or two hills.
Who can join in?
Our Intro Rides are mainly for people new to club cycling and not yet confident about doing one of the main club runs. They’re ideal if you already cycle and fancy getting a bit more involved, or if you’re returning after a break. They provide a chance to get to know the club and decide whether it’s for you. If you’re very new to cycling, it’s probably best to do a few independent rides first, and join an Intro Ride once you’re comfortable riding for 90 minutes or so. Under-16s need an adult with them.
How do I join the ride?
At the moment, because of COVID restrictions, Intro Rides are limited to eight people, including the leader(s). Everyone needs to be signed up in advance. To put your name down, either mail clubruns@beaconrcc.org.uk or answer the post on our message board.
Do I need a fancy bike?
No. For an Intro Ride, the main thing is that your bike is comfortable and reliable. Of course, it must also be legal, which basically means having two working brakes. For safety reasons, we don’t allow use of tri-bars on group rides.
Do I need special cycling gear?
No. Proper cycling clothing is generally more comfortable, especially for people riding far and/or fast. But Intro Rides aren’t like that. It’s good to avoid things that flap about and you certainly don’t want anything that chafes. In winter, you obviously don’t want to be under-dressed. But be careful not to over-dress either: if you’re sweating heavily on the hills, your wet clothes will make you cold the rest of the time. Layering is good and, if it’s likely to be wet, windy or very cold, your outer layer should be a lightweight waterproof or wind-stopper. Make sure all your extremities are well protected, but be aware that keeping your hands and feet warm depends as much on keeping your core warm as on gloves and footwear.
What should I bring?
Bring a bottle of water and maybe something like an energy bar. You’ll also need a little money for refreshments. If there’s a chance of rain, have a lightweight waterproof in your pocket or bag. Most club cyclists carry a mobile phone and a credit/debit card in case of emergency.
Anything else I need to know?
Yes, you need to read our Club Run Guidelines. Also, while we’ll always do our best to help, it’s important to recognise a rescue service isn’t part of the deal. So have a think about how you’d manage if you were miles from home with a bike that won’t go. Could you phone home for a lift, for example?
A list of club time trials being held in 2022 is available below. Newcomers are welcome to take part in club TTs, as are guests from other clubs. As well as a bi-weekly time trial league that is inclusive to all and encourages new and old participants across all ages, we are also organising three open events this year, which need to be entered in advance (see links below).
In 2022, we’ll be:
Running a league system with the final table based on the best eight results of each rider, as well as our traditional members’ handicap competition.
Using a mix of traditional TT and sporting courses, using quiet roads where possible.
Having a separate road bike category (no aero equipment and maximum 60mm depth wheels [NB: we’ve updated this from an original rule of 50mm, given the popularity of Zipp 404s]).
Having a 2-up (i.e. teams of two riders) mini-series within the league, with three designated events.
Holding a gala summer evening TT featuring retro bikes or fancy dress, with all proceeds going to charity.
Operating a marshalling rota to ensure the sustainability of the events. Each participant will be asked to marshall at one event.
The entry fee for a club time trial is £4.50 including the £3 Cycling Time Trials (CTT) levy. For 2022, CTT regulations require that all riders have working rear (red) and front (white) lights and wear a helmet. Please aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before the event start time in order to sign on.
If you’ve not given TTs a try before, we recommend reading this article on the website of the governing body, CTT (it’s from 2007, so some of the details are dated, but it gives a good idea of what to expect).
The Beacon Cycling Academy’s 2022 coaching sessions will start at Holders Lane in late January. Please see below for details of the sessions scheduled to date. We’re also putting on a number of Academy racing events again this year. Details of these are listed after the coaching sessions.
Holders Lane coaching sessions:
1 Wednesday 26 January 17:30-18:30 2 Wednesday 2 February 17:30-18:30 3 Wednesday 9 February 17:30-18:30 4 Wednesday 16 February 17:30-18:30
Easter holiday events
1 Thursday 21 April 14:00-16:00 (Cannock Chase; entry page) 2 Friday 22 April 10:00-15:00 (bike and skate with Birmingham Wheels Roller Speed Club, Hodge Hill College; cancelled)
Moseley School Fitness Centre coaching sessions:
1 Wednesday 25 May 17:30-18:30 (entry page) 2 Wednesday 1 June 17:30-18:30 (entry page) 3 Wednesday 8 June 17:30-18:30 (entry page) 4 Wednesday 15 June 18:00-19:00 (entry page) 5 Wednesday 22 June 17:30-18:30 (entry page) 6 Wednesday 10 August 17:30-18:30 (entry page) 7 Wednesday 24 August 17:30-18:30 (entry page) 8 Wednesday 14 September 17:30-18:30 (cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances) 9 Wednesday 21 September 17:30-18:30 (entry page) 10 Wednesday 28 September 17:30-18:30 (entry page) 11 Wednesday 5 October 17:30-18:30 (entry page) 12 Wednesday 12 October 17:30-18:30 (entry page) 13 Wednesday 19 October 17:30-18:30 (entry page) 14 Wednesday 16 November 17:30-18:30 (entry page) 15 Wednesday 23 November 17:30-18:30 (entry page) 16 Wednesday 30 November 17:30-18:30 (entry page) 17 Wednesday 7 December 17:30-18:30 (entry page)
Queensbridge Playing Fields grass track sessions:
1 Wednesday 29 June 17:30-18:30 (entry page) 2 Wednesday 6 July 17:30-18:30 (entry page)
During 2022, the Academy will be offering some coaching sessions at various venues in south Birmingham and further afield. Keep your eye on the Facebook feed for details of any additional sessions. These sessions take place in a traffic-free environment and are led by qualified coaches who introduce riders to skills used in different forms of cycle sport and include some racing, with the emphasis very much on fun. Most sessions are free for members, with membership costing just £5 for the year. If weather conditions are bad, please check the Facebook page for cancellations.
Beacon Academy Go-Ride sessions are aimed at young people who can already ride a bicycle and have sufficient co-ordination to stay safe in a group. Riders should wear a helmet at all times, have a well maintained bicycle, a drink and bring appropriate clothing and gloves.
BSCA Regional Grass Track Championships, Queensbridge School
We’re hosting the 2022 British Schools Cycling Association Regional Grass Track Championships. This event is open to all eligible riders, and last year attracted entrants from as far away as Yorkshire. Please book via Eventbrite to secure your place.
We’re organising some Go-Ride racing at Moseley School.
Club Track Championships, Halesowen:
Saturday 24 September 12:00-16:00 (entry page) (NB: replacement date due to rain on the original)
We hope to be able to once again run a full programme of junior races at this year’s Beacon RCC Track Championships, held at the outdoor track in Halesowen, as well as a pre-event coaching session. The Track Championships are open to Beacon members only. Please book via Eventbrite to register your interest.
This month’s Intro Ride is going to the café at Earlswood Craft Centre. Here’s a map of the route we plan to follow, which you can download to a GPS device:
We’ll cover roughly 49 kilometres (30 miles), mostly on quiet lanes. We’ll stop for refreshments at Earlswood Craft Centre, approximately two-thirds of the way through the route.
Will it be hard?
You should be fine if you can already ride for an hour or two at an average of roughly 16-20kph (10-12mph). We’ll stick together and go at the pace of the slowest rider. We’ll ride for a total of about three hours, with a break at the café and maybe a breather at the top of one or two hills.
Who can join in?
Our Intro Rides are mainly for people new to club cycling and not yet confident about doing one of the main club runs. They’re ideal if you already cycle and fancy getting a bit more involved, or if you’re returning after a break. They provide a chance to get to know the club and decide whether it’s for you. If you’re very new to cycling, it’s probably best to do a few independent rides first, and join an Intro Ride once you’re comfortable riding for 90 minutes or so. Under-16s need an adult with them.
How do I join the ride?
At the moment, because of COVID restrictions, Intro Rides are limited to eight people, including the leader(s). Everyone needs to be signed up in advance. To put your name down, either mail clubruns@beaconrcc.org.uk or answer the post on our message board.
Do I need a fancy bike?
No. For an Intro Ride, the main thing is that your bike is comfortable and reliable. Of course, it must also be legal, which basically means having two working brakes. For safety reasons, we don’t allow use of tri-bars on group rides.
Do I need special cycling gear?
No. Proper cycling clothing is generally more comfortable, especially for people riding far and/or fast. But Intro Rides aren’t like that. It’s good to avoid things that flap about and you certainly don’t want anything that chafes. In winter, you obviously don’t want to be under-dressed. But be careful not to over-dress either: if you’re sweating heavily on the hills, your wet clothes will make you cold the rest of the time. Layering is good and, if it’s likely to be wet, windy or very cold, your outer layer should be a lightweight waterproof or wind-stopper. Make sure all your extremities are well protected, but be aware that keeping your hands and feet warm depends as much on keeping your core warm as on gloves and footwear.
What should I bring?
Bring a bottle of water and maybe something like an energy bar. You’ll also need a little money for refreshments. If there’s a chance of rain, have a lightweight waterproof in your pocket or bag. Most club cyclists carry a mobile phone and a credit/debit card in case of emergency.
Anything else I need to know?
Yes, you need to read our Club Run Guidelines. Also, while we’ll always do our best to help, it’s important to recognise a rescue service isn’t part of the deal. So have a think about how you’d manage if you were miles from home with a bike that won’t go. Could you phone home for a lift, for example?
