350 Miles Bike Ride 1st-4th Aug 2024

It’s Back in 2024 – Our signature Sikh Helpline PRO Bike Ride 1st to 4th August 2024

This summer 2023 we look forward to the return of the SHL – Scotland to Birmingham bike ride. In our series of rides, this is the most challenging bike ride yet, hitting the streets to ride from Scotland to Birmingham, covering a total of 350 miles. The 4-day bike ride will take place on

POSTER:  Scotland Birmingham Bike Ride 2024  

Scotland to Birmingham Sikh Helpline Bike Ride. Date – 1stAug to 4th Aug 2024

1. Day 1– Edinburgh – Newcastle (120 miles)

2. Day 2– Newcastle – Leeds (100 miles)

3. Day 3– Leeds – Derby (80 miles)

4. Day 4– Derby – Birmingham (50 miles 

• Click here  –  Accommodation details   
• Click here –   Bike Ride Kit List  
• Click Here – To Donate / Sponsor  

Is this ride for me?

ABSOLUTELY! This cycle is suitable for all ages with the correct training. The minimum age for this cycle is 18 years old. The one thing everyone will have in common is a great sense of adventure and a desire to help a charity. Whether you are taking part as an individual or as a team with friends, team spirit will be flying high on the challenge.

How fit do I need to be?

This cycle ride is challenging and is designed to be demanding but achievable as long as you train beforehand. Remember, you are cycling for 4 days and there could be hot temperatures – the fitter you are the more you will enjoy this challenge. Cycling training tips can be found on the Sikh Helpline website to point you in the right direction and why not join one of our training weekends – it’s a great opportunity for you to meet our team and fellow participants! Please note: in order to complete each day’s cycling in a reasonable amount of time we will be aiming to cycle at an average speed of 14mph.

Where will we stay?

We will stay in local Sikh temples (Gurdwaras) All accommodation will have washing / drying facilities available. If you want to bring your own sleeping bags no problems, however sleeping facilities will be arranged.

Do I need specialist kit?

• We will supply you with a kit list of what to take once you register and are accepted to take part. What we do ask however is to ensure you have a suitable road bike which has been recently serviced. We will have basic tools and tyre pumps, however if you have any kit you may want to bring along this can be stored in the companying vehicles.

Do I have to carry my own luggage?

No. All luggage will be transported from accommodation to accommodation by our support vehicles. You will need a small saddle bag/bum bag/‘camel bak’ while cycling, to carry items such as gels/bars, sunscreen, etc. Some people find wearing a back pack uncomfortable distance, however it’s your choice.

Food Matters…

While cycling, we will either stop at local cafes/restaurants and food and drink can be purchased. Evening dinners and morning breakfasts will be provided by the local Sikh gurdwaras – please note these will be strictly vegetarian. During the ride we will have a well stocked supply of fruit, water, gels, energy bars etc. These will be in the supporting vehicles.

What’s included?

• Transport for you and your bike from Birmingham to Scotland Return transport for you and your bike

• All accommodation

• Bottled drinking water, snacks and fruit for all cycling days

• Private vehicle for backup, support and transfers

• Mechanic and medical support

What’s not included?

• Road Bikes – you will need to supply your own bike.

• Hire of any tri bars, specialist kit, shoes, helmets ect.

• Personal ride insurance – it is strongly advised to take this through British cycling

What support is there on the challenge?

There will be a strong support leader and a tail rider. Full, comprehensive first aid kits will be taken, and we are never too far away from hospitals. A vehicle will accompany the group providing support if needed. You will be in the hands of experienced riders and everyone will be briefed on cycling etiquette. Support is provided but all riders must have a level of self-awareness on health and safety on UK roads.

What happens if I get tired?

There will be agreed rest stops for drinks and snacks – there is no problem if you need to take more rest stops. A guide will be bringing up the rear of the group on the cycle ride ensuring no-one is left alone – remember though, this is not a race!

How do I go about raising the sponsorship?

Once you have signed up you will receive a fundraising pack from your charity in order to make your fundraising as easy as possible. 

What do I do now?

Places are limited and go on a first come, first served basis, so to try to register as soon as you can! 

For those who have not registered 

Email:  YOUR NAME and PHONE NUMBER to [email protected] – Once you’ve emailed we’ll provide you with further instructions and next steps.

Is there a minimum sponsorship target?

There is a minimum sponsorship of £350 for this event. We rely on your fundraising to keep up our work – your registration fee only helps to cover the cost of putting the event on – so please raise what you can, to help the Sikh helpline.

The Sikh Helpline (SHL) is a registered charity and works independently according to its own policies and mission statement. The helpline offers a free and confidential helpline service to those in need, regardless of whether the caller is of a Sikh background or not. Our service is one of listening and has developed expertise in dealing with cases covering, among many others:

• Domestic abuse (sexual, physical or emotional)

• Child abuse (sexual, physical or emotional)

• Bullying

• Kakaar issues at school

• Relationship issues

• Substance abuse (including drugs and alcohol)

• Depression and mental health issues.

SHL receives many calls from women and children who are suffering from domestic violence and abuse.

Important Information

• Each rider is expected to be sufficiently trained prior to participation in this event. Each rider must make their own decision with regards to final preparation, whether to participate on the day, nutrition, clothing and equipment etc.

– We (The Sikh help line) will help you with a training plan and also put forward some organised training rides to help you plan for you big four days.

• We expect all participants to follow the Highway Code and be considerate to other road users

• All participants must wear a suitable cycle helmet whilst participating in the event

• Please deposit all rubbish in the support vehicles or at the dedicated feed stations.