Cyclist organisations - Which one and why?

[Kermit power]

Afternoon all,

Which membership schemes have people joined (British Cycling, CTC, etc), and why?

I ride around 3,000 miles a year, the overwhelming majority of which is London commuting. I'd like something which will provide me with decent insurance and legal assistance should something bad happen. I've got absolutely no intentions of doing any racing. Discounts are nice, but I already get 10% off at Wiggle, so not sure whether there's much out there which betters this significantly?

Also, of the various schemes which offer insurance and legal cover, does anyone know how their service actually measures up in the event that you need to use it?

[outnumbered]

In your position I'd join CTC, they're more focussed on supporting cycling in general, rather than racing and competition.

The only downside I can see for Pistonheaders is that they can come across as quite anti-car in doing so. E.g. they are all about speed limit reduction, 20mph in urban areas etc. BC aren't a campaigning organisation in that respect, so might be preferable if it concerns you.

Edited by outnumbered on Tuesday 8th October 12:53

[itsnotarace]

British Cycling Ride Silver here, based on cost vs CTC using the TFL voucher. Benefits are very similar. I don't ride local CTC rides as the nearest one is 15 miles away, if there was a group more locally I would consider swapping

http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/common/voucher/print.asp...

[Mansilla]

CTC for decent insurance, and because while I dont agree with everything they say, their opinions do seem to be built on actual evidence, facts, and information.

Crazy, I know.

[anonymous-user]

BC Silver, primarily for the full race license and the indemnity insurance (should I ever start coaching!).

The access to free legal aid and liability insurance is worth it over bronze too which is pointless, you get fewer benefits compared to "ride" and only a provisional licence?! So you have to pay extra at each race for a day licence and get no support if you have an accident on the road. I like BC and their approach to the sport, the talent programme and all our lovely team pursuit girls!!!!

Both BC and CTC legal support appears to be well regarded b those who have used it on other forums.

Edited by anonymous-user on Tuesday 8th October 19:56

[Sortie 10]

I'm in CTC and had good (if not perfect) support by Slater Gordon, their legal people, leading to a recent satisfactory settlement of a claim. In the light of this, I am staying put.

[Mr Will]

British Cycling if you are in to racing or thinking of joining a road cycling club.

London Cycling Campaign if you are in London and not racing/training

CTC otherwise.

In your case I'd probably go for the LCC (http://lcc.org.uk/pages/membership-and-benefits)

[will_]

Mr Will said:

In your case I'd probably go for the LCC (http://lcc.org.uk/pages/membership-and-benefits)

That's what I've done, if only for the insurance.

Not sure I agree with all their policies and opinions but I do ride mostly in London and do think there is a benefit in having a London focused campaign group which has the ear of the Mayor.

10% parts discount at Evans too - membership might pay for itself over the course of a year.

[Some Gump]

I'm in british cycling, and like what they do. For the massive 14 quid a year, the insurance is great peace of mind.