FAQs

These FAQs are for participants. If you are a charity, please click here to see the Charity FAQs.

Signing Up and Fundraising

How old do I have to be to take part?
How fit do I need to be to take part?
How should I choose my start time?
Can I fundraise for any charity?
How much does it cost to take part?
What happens if I can’t raise enough sponsorship money?
Does the minimum sponsorship amount include Gift Aid?
Who do I speak to for queries regarding fundraising?

Before the Event
What’s included?
What’s not included?
Will I receive a registration pack in the post?
I live overseas will I receive a registration pack too?
Where can I get my bike insured?
Can you recommend accommodation in London?
Is there a choice of start point and start time?
Can I join as part of a team at the same start point/time?
What is the route?
How hilly is the route?
Is the route the same as Nightrider™ London 2011/12?
Will I receive a route description and GPS details?
What sort of bike should I bring?
Can I rent a bike?
Can I ride on a tandem?
Can I ride on a hand bike?
Are there any issues I should be aware of when cycling at night?
How can I make myself visible at night?
What about insurance?
What happens if I can't finish the route?
What happens if I decide to cancel?
If I cancel can someone else take my place?
If I cancel can I transfer my place to a future Nightrider™ event?
Can I buy Nightrider™ branded clothing?

On the Night
How many people are expected to take part on the night?
What time does the ride start?
What time do I need to arrive on the night to register?
What is the best way to travel to the start / finish?
Is there car parking at the start / finish points?
Will there be a cloakroom to leave personal possessions?
How will I find my way?
What if I get lost?
Is the ride timed?
Are there break stops en-route?
What food & drink are provided?
Are there toilets en-route?
What happens if I get ill or injured?
What if I suffer a mechanical problem?
How long is it likely to take me?
What time does the event finish?
What will I receive at the end of the ride?
Can I buy Nightrider™ branded clothing on the night?

Signing Up and Fundraising

How old do I have to be to take part?

You must be at least 18 years old to take part in Nightrider™ London. Unfortunately this is for insurance reasons, cycling 100km on London’s busy roads during the night is a challenge and our insurance policy can only cover those over 18 at the time of the event.

How fit do I need to be to take part?

Cycling 100km at night is a challenge and Nightrider™ London is not suitable for beginner cyclists. You should be confident cycling in traffic. The event is aimed at people of average fitness who are prepared to train beforehand. It is your responsibility to be fit enough to participate in Nightrider™ and to get doctor’s approval if you have any health concerns about safely completing the 100km cycle ride at night. We will provide a set of training guidelines after you register.

How should I choose my start time?

You can choose any start time, subject to availability from 22.30 – 01.00 at Crystal Palace and 23.00 – 01.30 at Alexandra Place. There are 100 people per start time at 5 minute intervals. Some charities have blocked out start times. If you are a slower cyclist or want to take in the sights and views as you cycle we recommend you choose an earlier start time. If you are an experienced rider we would appreciate you choosing a later start time, to allow other riders the chance to cycle the route with less time pressure. Please note that once you have selected your start time and location you cannot change this.

Can I fundraise for any charity?

Yes, if you'd like to fundraise for a charity that has not purchased places on the event, you can still support them by choosing 'option 2' and purchasing your own place at the full event cost of £99. (Please note that the £99 goes to Classic Tours and not to your chosen charity).

How much does it cost to take part?

There are 2 ways to take part in Nightrider™ London:

Option 1: Pay a £39 registration fee (non-refundable) and pledge to raise £175 approx. sponsorship for one of our partner charities that have purchased places on the event. Please note that the required minimum sponsorship target and deadline may vary depending on the charity – please be sure to liaise with your chosen charity.

Option 2: Pay £99 full event cost (non-refundable) then raise as much sponsorship money as possible for any charity of your choice. (Please note that the £99 goes to Classic Tours and not to your chosen charity).

What happens if I can’t raise enough sponsorship money?

If you are unable to meet the sponsorship money requirements set by your charity, you will forfeit your place. However, you may choose to make up the balance yourself.

Does the minimum sponsorship amount include Gift Aid?

No, the minimum sponsorship amount set by your charity does not include Gift Aid.

Who do I speak to for queries regarding fundraising?

You should contact your charity who will be able to give you lots of useful fundraising help and advice.

Before the Event

What’s included?

Fully signposted route
GPS file of the route (nearer the event)
Break stops every 20km, snacks, water and breakfast (Bacon or Egg Roll and a hot drink)
Hi-viz vest, cycle number, medal, bicycle mechanics, first aid support
Security staff, central control number to deal with any problems, sweep vehicle at the back
Insurance (excluding cover for your bike)

What’s not included?

Bike and bike insurance
Cycle helmet
Any cycle parts the mechanics might need to use
Energy drinks and fresh fruit snacks

Will I receive a registration pack in the post?

Yes, all registered participants will receive their cycling number and registration card a couple of weeks before the event. Please note that this will not include your hi vis vest, that you will collect on the night at the point of registration.

I live overseas will I receive a registration pack too?

If you live overseas then you will be able to pick up your registration pack on the night from your chosen start point. Please go to the help desk in the registration area and you will receive your cycling number and registration card.

Where can I get my bike insured?

There are many insurance providers online that specialise in bike insurance. e.g. www.velosure.co.uk

Can you recommend accommodation in London?

We aren't making any official recommendations for accommodation but a quick web search should help you out with a place to stay nearby.

Is there a choice of start point and start time?

There are 2 start points – Crystal Palace in South London and Alexandra Palace in North London. You will be able to choose your start point and start time when you register. Some charities have booked a specific start place and time for their supporters. Please note that start points are allocated on a first come first served basis. As the event fills up one of the start points may sell out first.

Can I join as part of a team at the same start point/time?

Yes, but you will all need to sign up individually. Decide between yourselves your chosen start time and location and be sure to all request the same option.

What is the route?

There are 2 start points – Alexandra Palace and Crystal Palace - and half of cyclists will set off from each place in an anti-clockwise direction around London. It is a circular route and cyclists finish at the same place from where they set off. The route takes in over 50 of London’s famous landmarks some of which are shown on the Route Map. There are break stops every 20km. The Nightrider™ route is a truly unique way to explore the city. Witnessing sunrise (weather permitting) over the London skyline is likely to be an unforgettable moment.

How hilly is the route?

• Lowest point: 2m Ilderton Road in Bermondsey
• Highest Point: 139m Whitestone Pond , Hampstead
• Total climbing/ descent 554m (it is hillier than 2012 route!)
• Steepest hill - Queens Wood Road in Highgate at 10%

Is the route the same as Nightrider™ London 2011/12?

The start and finish points are the same, but we have developed the route to include some new areas of London, whilst still incorporating in all the key sights. Check back in the route section soon to see an updated route.

Will I receive a route description and GPS details?

A description of the route and details for GPS devices is available to download in the Participant Area of the Nightrider™ London. Only registered participants have access to the participant area. You can request free cycling maps of London from the ‘Cycling’ section of the Tfl website www.tfl.gov.uk or by calling 020 7222 1234. Maps 4, 7, 11 and 14 cover the whole route. Map 1 of central London is also useful.

What sort of bike should I bring?

Nightrider™ London has been completed on everything from top of the line road racing bikes, to fixed gear bikes and simple mountain bikes. Most appropriate is a road bike, either drop or flat handlebars, with a reasonably wide range of gears (there are a couple of stiff climbs on the route) and tyres should be at least 25mm wide (not all London roads are in great condition). If using a hybrid or mountain bike, we recommend fitting it with narrow road tyres. We strongly recommend that you get your bike serviced to ensure that it is in road worthy condition and ready to ride 100km. Though the route is on well-lit roads, it is essential that you have working front and rear lights – and bring spare batteries. Wearing a cycle helmet is a condition of participation.

Can I rent a bike?

We don't currently offer a rental service. You will need to bring your own bike.

Can I ride on a tandem?

Yes - both cyclists should register separately but request the same start point and start time! If you are blind or visually impaired and would like to participate with a co-cyclist, please contact the Nightrider™ Team to discuss - nightrider@classictours.co.uk

Can I ride on a hand bike?

Yes – but please contact us in advance so that we can arrange disabled toilets and make a couple of small changes to the route to make it fully accessible.

Are there any issues I should be aware of when cycling at night?

It is vital that you follow the Highway Code and all road laws for your own safety. We specifically remind all riders that traffic signals apply equally to all road users and must be obeyed. Nightrider™ London is not a race and we ask cyclists to respect each other and other road users. Never ride more than 2 abreast and do not attempt to pass in dangerous places. Keep a safe distance between yourselves and others. The route is on well lit roads and quieter roads where possible, but in the centre of town there will traffic and people who have enjoyed London's many clubs and bars and you should be confident to deal with this. Throughout the ride, particularly in quieter areas, we recommend that you do not ride alone. Please also respect the local residents of the areas you are cycling who will be sleeping whilst you cycle. Please try to keep noise to a minimum in residential areas.

How can I make myself visible at night?

For your safety it is very important you are visible to other road users. You need lights on your bike (please bring spare batteries) and we will be providing you with a hi viz to wear when cycling. If you would like to purchase any other hi viz clothing we can recommend Proviz, the ultimate hi visibility specialists. Their unique range of light-emitting night cycling products help to ensure the visibility and position of a cyclist is easily identifiable on the roads at night. Visit www.proviz.co.uk to find out more. All Nightrider participants will be given a 10% discount code once you have signed up, this will be available in the Participant Area.

What about insurance?

Included in the cost of the event is insurance which will cover you for pre-event cancellation cover, personal liability and personal accident cover. Please note that Classic Tours insurance, like most travel insurance policies, specifically excludes cover for bicycles under the personal effects section of the policy. Bicycles should be covered under a household all risks contents insurance policy.

What happens if I can't finish the route?

If you decide you cannot continue please call central control on the night to notify us. It will be your responsibility to find your own way home from wherever you decide to stop. There will be a sweep vehicle at the back of the ride, but remember that it has to stay there. It will progress at an average speed of just under 7mph, clearing the breaks according to a schedule of 1 hour 50 minutes between breaks.

What happens if I decide to cancel?

You should notify your charity and the Nightrider™ Team by email. Any refunds to sponsors are strictly between you and the charity. All monies paid (£39 – Option 1 / £99 - Option 2) are non-refundable. Please see the Terms and Conditions before registering.

If I cancel can someone else take my place?

No, your place on the event is non-transferable.

If I cancel can I transfer my place to a future Nightrider™ event?

It is not possible to transfer your place to another Nightrider™ challenge. Your place is only valid on the Nightrider™ London event taking place on 8/9 June 2013.

Can I buy Nightrider™ branded clothing?

There is an online shop on the Nightrider™ website, where you can buy Nightrider™ T-shirts, hoodies and cycle jerseys. For any questions about the event clothing please email enquiries@raceplus.co.uk or call 01225 446634.

On the Night

How many people are expected to take part on the night?

We are expecting 4,000 cyclists in total on the night.

What time does the ride start?

Nightriders will set off from 10.30pm at Crystal Palace and from 11pm at Alexandra Palace. Groups of 100 cyclists will set off every 5 minutes. The last riders will depart from Crystal Palace at 12.20am and Alexandra Palace at 12.50am. You will be able to choose your start point and start time when you register, subject to availbility.

What time do I need to arrive on the night to register?

Please arrive 30 minutes before your start time to register for the event and get ready before you set off.

What is the best way to travel to the start / finish?

Nightrider™ is a circular route so you will start and finish at the same place. From a safety point of view we do not recommend that you drive after spending a sleepless night cycling if at all possible. It would be better to use public transport or arrange to be dropped and collected by someone else.

Both Alexandra Palace and Crystal Palace are served by train lines which permit bikes to be carried at the weekends. You can also take your bike on a number of tube lines at the weekend. For full details of where you can take you bike please see the TFL map here.

If taking the train, the best stations to use are:

Alexandra Palace - Alexandra Palace has its own British Rail Station, fittingly called Alexandra Palace Station. It is located at the Wood Green entrance to the Park. A regular train service runs from Kings Cross. Bikes are permitted on this train.

Crystal Palace - conveniently located within 20 minutes from Central London (London Bridge and Victoria) by train and is a short walk from Crystal Palace mainline station. Bikes are permitted on this train.

Is there car parking at the start / finish points?

If you choose to drive yourself to the start, car parking is available at Alexandra Palace and Crystal Place but there are limited spaces at Crystal Palace. Car parking is on a first come first served basis, subject to availability and all cars are parked at your own risk. There will be a small administrative charge to park your vehicle, which will be confirmed closer to the date. All registered participants will receive an email mid may about how to book a car park space.

Will there be a cloakroom to leave personal possessions?

There will be a cloakroom available at Alexandra Palace and Crystal Place. All belongings are left at your own risk – please do not bring valuable items with you. Space is limited so please keep any items to a minimum.

Are there any changing or shower facilities at the start/finish points?

There won't be any changing or shower facilities, so please come prepared and dressed accordingly for the bike ride.

How will I find my way?

The route is fully signposted and where this is not possible (short sections of the route) there will be marshals marking the junctions. For Nightrider™ London 2013 we intend to have more signs than ever before and each one will be larger in size. Please note that marshals will only be present in the unsigned areas - you should not expect to see them on the rest of the route.

What if I get lost?

The route is fully signposted but in the unlikely event that you get lost there is a Central Control number to call where staff can quickly direct you back to the route.

Is the ride timed?

No, Nightrider™ London is NOT a race. For this reason we will not be providing race chips. We have considered this very seriously but we must stress this is an urban cycling challenge on London’s busy roads. It is not a race, it is not timed and it would be dangerous to do so. See the sights of London, enjoy the challenge, have a rest at the breaks and raise funds for your charity.

Are there break stops en-route?

There is a break stop roughly every 20km. Snacks, water and toilets will be provided. There will be a mechanic and a first aider based at each stop. Please see the Route Map for more details of where the break stops are located. They are as follows: Potters Field Park near Tower Bridge, Mile End Stadium, Alexandra Palace (for those who start at Crystal Palace), Geraldine Mary Harmsworth Park at the Imperial War Museum and Crystal Palace (for those who start at Alexandra Palace).

What food & drink are provided?

High-energy snacks (e.g. sweets, biscuits, cereal bars and crisps) and water are provided at the 3 intermediate break stops. At the halfway point hot drinks will be available. After the ride you will receive a well earned breakfast - bacon or egg roll and hot drink. If you would like additional snacks such as fruit or energy drinks, please be sure to bring your own with you. If you have any dietary requirements please advise us at the time you register. We will provide a vegetarian alternative, and try our best to cater for you, but if you have very specific requirements we recommend you bring your own snacks and breakfast.

Are there toilets en-route?

Yes, there are toilets at the start / finish points and at every break stop.

What happens if I get ill or injured?

There is a first aider based at each break stop, but in serious cases you should dial 999.

What if I suffer a mechanical problem?

There will be a bicycle mechanic available at the start points and at each of the break stops. If you need a mechanic to come to help you en-route, you should call Central Control. The mechanics can’t help with repairs that could and should have been done before the ride – make sure your bike is in good order before you come! Please remember to bring at least one spare inner tube with you.

How long is it likely to take me?

On average it takes about 6 – 8 hours to complete the route.

What times does the event finish?

The finish points will close at 10.00am on Sunday 9 June by which point we expect everyone to have finished cycling based on previous events. The intermediate break stops will close down progressively prior to this time. After 10am there will no longer be any technical support available, though the route signs will still be in place until later in the day.

What will I receive at the end of the ride?

You will receive a Nightrider™ medal and a well earned breakfast - bacon or egg roll and hot drink.

Can I buy Nightrider™ branded clothing on the night?

You will not be able to buy any Nightrider branded clothes on the night of the event. There is an online shop on the Nightrider™ website, where you can buy Nightrider™ T-shirts, hoodies and cycle jerseys. For any questions about the event clothing please email enquiries@raceplus.co.uk or call 01225 446634.