| * | Easier and shorter 30-50 km (20-30 miles) – these are ideal for beginners with emphasis on the social aspect and sightseeing, for families, children, parents, grandparents ... |
| ** | Medium distance 55-85 km (35-55m) – steady pace yet time to enjoy lunch, etc. |
| **/*** | A new designation for additional rides in the summer months that are a little more challenging than regular ** rides. A stepping stone for those who are not sure if they are ready to try *** rides. |
| *** | Faster and generally longer (80-120km) – often hillier – nearly always on-road ... suitable for a light touring or road bike. |
| **** | A bit faster again and sometimes longer (100km+), with fewer stops – but normally a pub/cafe lunch – these rides are for experienced Audax or Sportive riders training for their next event, or for those who just like it hard. |
| Audax | Official Audax event – more from www.audax.uk.net – very popular with the more serious riders ... however most of those included in our list are the shorter (100-200km) ones enjoyable for medium paced riders. |
| Sportif | Cylosportif event – more from www.cyclosport.org – timed events for the more serious rider. Not races, but no upper speed limit as on an audax, so many will ride as if racing. There may be support and feed stations. Entry fees vary – some events are cheap and spartan, others (often connected to a charity) are more expensive and elaborate. It's usually best to register in advance, but often it's possible to 'sign on the line'. |
| LCC | Rides organised by other groups (such as LCC) – not covered by CTC leader public liability insurance. |
| Off-road | Mainly on rough tracks perhaps muddy – mountain bikes normally used. |
| Zone6 | Start & finish in travelcard/freedom pass area or not using trains at all – low or no travel cost. |
| Family | Easy ride suitable for parents and children (no unaccompanied children, please). |
| Walk | Walk 12-20 km (8-12m) often with picnic lunch bring food & drink (no bikes!). |