FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
01. OK, I like what I see here. How do I join Team Revolution?
Glad you asked. Joining Team Revolution is easy. Head on over to our membership page. Fill out the registration form. Select your membership level, and pay your dues. And done. You're one of us, now.
02. Hmmm, I'm still not convinced. Why I should I join Team Revolution?
Really, still not convinced, huh? Did you see all the group rides and clinics we offer? [yes, we know we don't have the rides posted yet!] What about the work we do for the community? Our members represent an eclectic collection of colorful personalities. Our jerseys are pretty cute. See, take a look. We're backed by some of the best sponsors in the industry and have some amazing individuals and corporations who lend their support as well. Check them out. And our membership comes with some pretty nice perks. What else are you looking for?
Sure, you can come to our rides and pay to attend our clinics without joining up. And we welcome you if you choose that route. Still, we urge to consider becoming part of our club to demonstrate your commitment to an organization with a mission of elevating women through cycling and to the members of the organization who will passionately support the growth and development of any women on a bike.
03. I've seen some of you at local races. Are you a race team?
No -- we're not a race team. We are a non-profit cycling advocacy and education group that calls itself a club because saying "non-profit cycling advocacy and education group" is a mouthful. Our club welcomes members of all ages and abilities. Some of our members express interest in racing. We're happy to serve as a resource for them as they explore the competitive side of cycling. Many of our members do not race and have no desire to do so. We support that, too. We're a pretty supportive bunch around here. Really, we just want to see you on a bike.
04. I'm not currently a member. Am I still welcome on rides and clinics? Is there a charge?
Non-members are welcome to attend any of our events. In fact, we encourage it. Come check us out! All of our rides are free. Most clinics have a fee for non-members. Descriptions of upcoming events on our calendar will indicate the cost associated with each event.
05. I've never done a group ride before. What do I need to know and bring?
Yay! Your first group ride. We're so excited for you! Cycling is a multi-faceted sport, and whatever your current abilities, there's always room to grow. Group riding offers you the best learning curve. There's no need to feel like you need to know everything before you show up. Come join us, and we'll teach you.
We have a few safety requirements we ask you to keep in mind. We'd like to think you follow them whenever you hit the road. We insist you follow them when you ride with us:
- Wear an ANSI-approved helmet.
- Obey all traffic laws as if you are a car -- stop at stops signs and red lights, indicate when you plan to change lanes or make a turn (don't worry -- we'll show how this is done on a bike).
- Ride 2x2 or single file. Stay as far to the right as possible giving cars room to pass.
- Leave your music at home.
We recommend you always carry the following:
- a photo ID
- a cell phone with your ICE number programmed in your contacts
- fix a flat material (we'll teach you how to fix your flat and let you know what you need to carry to do so)
- a water bottle
06. I don't have a road bike. Do I need one to ride with you?
Most of our members do ride a road bike for our road rides. If you don't have a road bike yet, have no fear. We welcome cyclists on bikes of all kinds for our beginner rides and can even help you secure (borrow or rent) a road bike when you're ready to try one out.
07. I know about your Wednesday night ride but I can't make it. Do you do any other group rides?
We sure do. You can see a full listing of our events on our calendar and get details about each offering on our rides/routes page. Members also frequently post to our forum to coordinate any unofficial group rides they are planning.
08. I'm not sure if I can keep up. What's the average pace of your rides and how long do they usually last?
Ride pace and length varies significantly from ride to ride, but we've worked hard to ensure we offer something for everybody. We've established a ride rating system to help you decide if the pace is going to be right for you.
09. I usually ride with my boyfriend/husband. Can he ride with us?
Team Revolution is a place for women to get support and encouragement from other women in a safe, friendly environment as they pursue their cycling goals. While many men have supported our cycling development over the years, we've noticed inviting men along can change the dynamics a bit. So, no, your boyfriend or husband cannot attend any official club events.
That being said, we've received some great feedback from men who think the events we put on are pretty cool, and it sounds as if some of them would jump at the chance to explore the opportunities we are proud to offer women. We are looking into offering some co-ed clinics in the future and will be sure to keep women and men alike updated on any new developments to our educational program.
10. I had planned to come out today but it's raining. Hard. Is the group ride still on?
Group rides are generally not recommended during inclement weather. While a lot of us do ride in the blistering heat and, even snow, we don't think these are great group ride conditions, especially for those just learning. While a ride leader and others are likely to show up; if the roads are wet at the time of the ride, we take the safe route and recommend moving indoors. When in doubt, check our events page for an official update or call the ride/event leader.
11. I love your super-stylish Team Revolution jersey. How can I get my hands on one?
Thanks! We love them, too. Jersey orders are placed in the early spring and late fall. Get in touch with one of us, and we'll be sure to include you on our next order. Members who sign up for platinum membership receive a jersey when they pay their dues.
12. I still have questions. Who should I direct them to?
For questions about our club team, email Stephanie Nadeau or Carrie Cash (president and founder, respectively).