Today’s post is one for my fellow southern Californians looking to become more active in cycling communities. The thought of joining a cycling-based community isn’t something many cyclists consider. However, I believe that staying plugged into groups that foster and support your passion can only grow your knowledge and level of skill. As I mentioned in my last blog post (Improving Cycling Times | Barton Haynes), finding friends to ride with improves your motivation and cycling times. Furthermore, cycling groups oftentimes organize events that support local charities and nonprofits.
If you live in the San Diego area, here are 3 cycling communities that are worth checking out. Joining a new group will earn you friends, satisfaction, and faster cycling times.
San Diego Bicycle Club
photo c/o SDBC
The San Diego Bicycle Club is the oldest cycling club in San Diego. Many of my cycling friends are aware of this group because of how long it’s been established.
According to the SDBC website, the group was established in 1946 and supports riders of all backgrounds and skill levels. This club offers training programs developed by experienced cyclists with racing and coaching experience.
Joining this group offers benefits including:
- Free weekend club and training rides
- Discounts and Club Nights from sponsors (including UC Cyclery, the official bike shop of SDBC)
- Membership to the SDBC Pactimo Team Order Site
- Discounts on nutrition products, glasses, and other sponsor items
- Special Event rides
- Annual Borrego Springs ride and camping trip with SAG’ed trip and a BBQ
- Membership in the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition
Membership fees for this group is low and start at only $45 per year.
Swamis – The Gurus of Cycling
photo c/o Johnny McKee
This is another cycling club located in San Diego’s North County. Swami’s was founded in 1989 and brags to be one of the “premier and most recognized clubs in southern California.” Currently, over 300 men and women in the San Diego region participate in the cycling activities offered by the group.
“Swamis is committed to developing the sport of cycling and cultivating a positive lifestyle. Each year we organize several cycling events in the community and also support a variety of charities,” the website explains.
Everyone and anyone is welcome to join the club. Those who are a part of Swami’s are invited to attend regular weekly trainings. A Saturday ride is hosted every weekend and has welcomed famous guests such as Lance Armstrong, Chris Horner, Floyd Landis, Axel Merckx and other Olympians.
In addition to Saturday rides, Swami’s also organizes races, social events, and community outreach programs.
If you’re interested in joining the Swami’s club, you’ll enjoy benefits including:
- Weekly group rides for all abilities
- Social rides
- Sponsor discounts including 15% discount at Nitro Multisport, twice yearly wholesale prices on bikes, wheels, shoes, helmets, pedals, glasses, etc.
- Regular social events
- Community involvement and outreach
- Free Skills Clinics
There are several membership plans offered and those interested are invited to sign up online.
San Diego Cyclo-Vets
photo c/o San Diego Cycle-Vets
Finally, the last cycling club I’m sharing today are the San Diego Cyclo-Vets. This well-established group also has over 300 members and has been in practice for 25 years. They explain their group by stating, “The San Diego Cycle-Vets is incorporated to preserve, develop, and administer the sport of amateur bicycle racing at the masters-age, under the permit of the United States Cycling Federation.”
On their About page, they brag, “We boast among our members some of the United State’s and Canada’s finest – doctors, lawyers, engineers, educators, law enforcement, and military officers, just to name a few. Many active retired men and women also belong to Cycle-Vets.”
Like the other clubs, there are many perks for individuals who choose to join Cycle-Vets. There are daily rides that can be viewed on their Information By Day page that anyone can attend. Furthermore, organized races are held frequently and are open to all Cycle-Vet members.
Individuals or families can choose to join this organization. Forms and registration information are available online.
Many thanks for following along, cyclists. If you are seeking a San Diego cycling community, hopefully summaries of these fantastic clubs in the San Diego area will inspire you to join a group that will motivate and push you in your cycling journey.
-Barton Haynes