The Rowville Riders
The Rowville riders was established by Aaron Twigg with the aim to unite riders who share a passion to ride. What started with a handful of mates has grown into quite a popular and successful group with close to 200 members.
The Rowville riders offers a community for riders to share their cycling experiences and offers regular social group rides that are open to riders of all abilities.
Words and Images - Brendan Edwards
I was invited along for one of the Rowville Riders Beach Road social rides. From the very start there was the real feeling that they are more of a community than just a bike group. A number of riders were proudly wearing their Rowville Riders team kit. I sensed a strong bond amongst the group and felt that the Rowville Riders had brought a number of people together.
The ride was really relaxed, it was all about the ride, the pleasure of riding... not to just go out and smash themselves. It was good to see amongst the group riders of all abilities and there no egos. Everyone helped each other out and that was special.
The group hosts several social rides each week. What is unique about Rowville is that it is located almost halfway between Beach Road and the Dandenong’s. Due to this ideal location, they mix their social rides between the hills, and on the flat roads out to Beach Road.
The group uses social media to communicate between one another and plan their rides. They use an app which is called “Teamapp” to communicate. You can download this free from the App Store.
Teamapp allows riders to chat, share photos, post rides, and offer one another advice on the best places to ride. The app also has the benefit of privacy, and you know that what you are posting won’t be viewed by people not associated with the group, which helps to add to the bond this group has with one another. This is a fantastic app, and a great way to meet new & great friends.
TUESDAY NIGHT CRUSIE
A great way to unwind after work, you set off from Waterford Valley golf course and cruise around the local bike paths at a nice relaxing pace.
Routes vary with distance approximately 30 to 35 km in length.
Time: 6:30pm Duration: Allow 1.5 hours
THURSDAY NIGHT RIDE
Sets of from the Waterford Valley Golf Club and heads up the Devil’s Elbow in the Dandenongs. This is a casual no-drop ride. Riders regroup at the top of the 1 in 20 in Sassafras and to enjoy the fast flowing descent down the 1 in 20.
Time: 7:00pm Duration: Allow 2 hours
WEEKENDS
There are also weekend rides which are organised on a regular basis. All rides are organised through the Teamapp. For all social rides, please ensure you are self sufficient and for your own personnel safety lights are required!
In the event of extreme weather conditions Rowville Riders may recommend a route change or cancellation of the ride.
FIND OUT MORE
Link to the Rowville Riders Strava group here – new members welcome.
Link to the Rowville Riders Facebook page here
If you want any further information on social rides email rowvilleriders@gmail.com
THE WEEKLY RIDER.
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