Medium All Day (MAD) Thursday Rides These rides are for experienced cyclists capable of riding from 50 to 80km at an average speed of about 20 Km per hour. The terrain may contain some hills. The rides are listed every Thursday throughout the year and commence at 9.30am at a site usually within a radius of 10-15 km from Box Hill. The starting point will usually have car parking &/or train access and toilet facilities. Experienced club members who have ridden MAD Thursday rides for some time will lead the rides. Return times depend on the length of the ride but are typically in the range of 2:00 to 3:00pm. A Morning Tea/Coffee break occurs at about 10.30 – 11.00 am on the ride and each ride leader specifies the cafes etc., where this will be held. A stop for lunch is always included in a MAD ride, usually between 12:00 and 1:00pm. Most riders prefer to bring their lunch but the leader will indicate whether lunch can be purchased at the lunch site or if it should be bought at the morning tea break. On longer rides there may be an afternoon tea stop. To facilitate smooth progress of the ride, the ride leaders will usually ask riders near him/her to stay at corners as ‘Markers’ to ensure that those on the ride can easily see where the leader has gone and not have to stop or take a wrong turn. Also to ensure that no rider is left behind, or may need assistance (e.g. punctures etc.) the leader will appoint a ‘Whip’ who will always ensure he/she is last on the ride and can account for everyone who has signed on for the … Continue reading Medium All Day Thursday