A: Simply download the application form. Upon completion we will send you a sponsorship pack and associated ride entry procedures, for example for storing your baggage and unique markings for you and your bike. You can also request a application form to be sent to you via post – email us on This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call us on 020 8867 9111.

Q: How and when do I get a sponsorship form?

A: Simply fill in the online application form from our website, or download it and send it to us along with your selected / preferred registration choice. Once this has been accepted, we will post you a joining pack that contains the sponsorship form.

You can also collect sponsorship online by creating your own fundraising page on our EverydayHero website. The link can be found on www.charitybikeride.com .

Q: I own a company and would like to become a ride sponsor. Who do I contact and what does it cost me?

A: Please contact our hotline on 020 8867 9111 and speak to someone regarding sponsorship packages. They will be able to go through different sponsorship packages with you. You can also email your interest on This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

There are various different marketing opportunities available for company sponsors to reach out to their customers and for brand awareness.

Q: How much raised in sponsorship will go the selected charity I'm riding for?

A: SACA's mission statement states that it aims for 100%. This is because many of the ride logistics’ and all of the committee organisers give the time and dedication over the year proceeding the ride for free.

Q: Do I need any special preparation, for example, diet or exercise?

A: Information is available regarding training; nutrition and safe cycling are available on our website.

Q: How safe is the ride?

A: We have a fully trained paramedics team accompany us during the ride who specialised in dealing with medical situations on our event. The ride has marshals spread out across the ride to look after and help the riders through their journey. We ensure that there are breaks atleast every 15 miles for riders to take a rest, and the ride also has support vehicles (minibuses) for riders that are feeling tired.

Q: How is the ride supported, for example: Food, drink stations?

A: On the first day, 90 miles is completed and on the second the remaining 36 days.
NB Formal breaks for food and drinks stops are available throughout the ride (all free, including lunch and dinner on the evening of the Saturday). You can find a pit stop every 15 miles.

Q: What if I get tired on route? Are there facilities for a break on route?

A: Yes, adequate mini-buses and bike carrier trucks follow the riders all the way if you wish to take a break.

Q: What happens with my luggage? Do I need to carry it with me?

A: There are special allocated luggage vans that transport your bags / sleeping bags etc during the ride. You will not have access to your bags on the 1^st day until you reach Luton and on the 2^nd day your bags will only be accessible at the ride finish.

Q: Will there be someone to look at my bike in case of mechanical failure on route?

A: Yes, bike mechanics are available on route but as a rider it is your responsibility to ensure that your bike is road worthy. Repairs will be basic, for example: Air, brakes and gear checks.

Q: Can we rent a bike / Do you rent bikes for the ride?

A: We suggest that you do get your own bike and if you do rent a bike the rental contract will be binding between yourself and the rental organisation. We do not make any bikes available or let people randomly pick from ones owned by riders who maybe resting!

Q: How do I travel up to Birmingham with my bike?

A: We arrange transport (coaches) for London riders and transportation for their bikes (trucks). There will be 2 pickup points – 1 in West London and the other from East London a day before the ride. You will need to be at the pickup point at the specified time to take advantage of this facility (details will be provided in your rider pack once you apply)

Q: Is there any accommodation provided and how much does it cost me?

A: Free accommodation (20^th July) and breakfast on the day of the ride is provided by the organisers (at Birmingham for London Riders) and the 21^st (at Luton for all riders). The accommodation is provided courtesy of Smethwick and Luton/Bedford Sikh Temples. The facilities offer a well carpeted hall where you sleep (please bring a sleeping bag / blanket for your own comfort) and shower facilities. There are separate accommodation halls for men and women.

If this accommodation is not suitable for you then we have special rates agreed with local hotels prior to the ride which you may want to take advantage of. Details are on the website. Breakfast will still be available at the start of the ride for these riders. If you are planning to arrange your own accommodation then you must ensure that you reach the start point of the ride well in advance as mentioned in your rider pack or you will get left behind!

Q: What is the last application date?

A: The last date of application is the 25^th June 2012.

Q: Is there any special clothing I need to wear during the bike ride?

A: As with most sports you will have to be dressed appropriately. If you are not wearing cycling clothing then we recommend track suits, shorts, jogging bottoms and trainers – no jeans, or trousers. We also strongly recommend high visibility clothing to be worn throughout the ride for your own safety. High visibilty vests will be provided by the organisers and must be returned at the end of the ride.

Q: Do I need to bring a helmet during the ride?

A: For you safety, helmets are highly recommended on all road cycling activities and must be worn at all times during the time you are cycling. We recommend that you visit your local cycling shop as they will be able to advise you on the correct sized helmet to fit your head comfortably.

If you normally wear a head covering (eg, turban, keski or hijab) we still recommend that you wear a helmet. The only exception is a well protected and layered turban - please speak to the organisers if in doubt!

Q: What is the minimum age for entry?

A: The minimum age for entry is 18, however if you are aged 17, then you may still apply as long as you have passed your cycle proficiency test (we do require proof of this) and accompanied by an adult throughout the ride. Free cycle training and cycle proficiency tests are available from each local authority. Please call your local authority and speak to your councils cycling officer for more details or call us and we may be able to assist you.

Q:: Are there any prizes?

A: In previous years and we hope to continue, we award a prize (flights to New York, health club membership or similar) for the person who collects the most sponsorship – details will be in your rider pack. Please remember that this is a ride not a race and we hope people will enjoy themselves doing something positive for charity.

Q: Is there are minimum sponsorship amount that I need to raise?

A: The minimum each rider needs to raise is £100. You must submit the minimum part to SACA prior to the event.

Q: Is there any particular type of bike that you would recommend to ride on if I was to enter?

A: Your bike should be road worthy (checked by a specialist prior to the ride – i.e. a mechanic at a cyclists shop). It is essential that your brakes, gears are in good working order and you know when and how to use them. We recommend that you have a bike that has gears as they help when you are travelling uphill. Most riders these days prefer bikes that have light frames and a good selection of gears to help them on different terrains – speak to a specialist at your local bike shop who will advise you.

We do not recommend purchasing a bike just before the ride as most bikes are assembled the day you purchase it and you may not get enough practice in riding it. Sometimes bikes are not assembled correctly (brakes, gears etc..) and you may need to visit your bike shop again after purchasing it to get it adjusted.

Nb: If your bike is not road worthy (bikes are checked when you register) then you will not be able to enter and no refunds will be given. It is your own responsibility to get your bike checked!

Q: How long does the first day of reaching the centennial mile take?

A: The first day involves approximately 10-12 hours of cycling which includes breaks for FREE refreshments, osteopathy sessions (by qualified consultant) and lunch.