



Test your off-road skills and improve your cyclocross technique with a focused half-day session guided by a British Cycling qualified coach. Whether you're preparing for your first race or looking to fine-tune your handling, this 4-hour coached ride is tailored to meet your group’s ability and goals.
The session begins with a short introduction and setup check before heading straight into skills-based coaching. Beginners will work on the fundamentals, including body positioning, basic cornering, dismounts, remounts, and riding on off-camber surfaces. The coaching is practical and focused, using short loops and technical features in the terrain to help you develop control and confidence. There’s a strong emphasis on understanding the why behind each movement, making it easier to apply those skills during training or racing.
For more experienced riders, the focus shifts to more advanced elements such as explosive starts, shouldering techniques, bike carrying, managing steep or technical descents, and building tactical awareness for racing. The coach will also cover tyre pressure selection, pacing, and preparation strategies to help you maximise your performance. Sessions are designed to be constructive and engaging, with plenty of time for questions and individual feedback, so everyone finishes with clear takeaways.
The ride can take place at any agreed location within a 30-mile radius of London, using parks, woodlands, and natural trails to provide a varied and realistic riding surface. Meeting points are usually cafés close to suitable terrain, offering a relaxed place to gather before the session begins and regroup at the end. Locations are chosen to offer everything from tight corners and off-camber sections to steep climbs and natural features ideal for skill development.
Once your group has booked, you’ll work directly with the coach to finalise the most convenient and suitable meeting point. The flexibility in venue means the terrain can be matched to your group’s ability level and learning priorities. Whether you prefer smoother grass tracks or more technical woodland trails, the session will make use of every available slope, corner and obstacle to replicate real cyclocross conditions.
You should be a competent cyclist able to ride for a minimum of two hours at a moderate pace. No prior cyclocross experience is necessary, but confidence in basic off-road riding will help you get more from the session. A cyclocross or gravel bike is ideal due to the mix of surfaces and technical demands involved. Helmets are required, and riders should bring appropriate clothing, water, snacks, and any personal spares they might need.
The group size is limited to ensure that each rider gets tailored attention and that the session flows at a manageable pace for all involved. If you have any questions about your bike setup or fitness level, the coach is happy to advise in advance of booking.
With over 20 years of experience coaching and leading rides, Charlie brings deep knowledge and a friendly, focused approach to each session. As a British Cycling Level 2 Cyclocross-specific coach and the current cyclocross secretary for Dulwich Paragon, he works with over 100 riders across all levels, including as lead off-road coach at Herne Hill Velodrome.
Charlie is skilled at adapting his coaching to each group’s needs, offering a balance of technical instruction, race insight, and fun. His sessions are structured, accessible, and grounded in real-world race and training experience, making them ideal for riders who want to progress without pressure. Whether you're new to cyclocross or looking to improve your performance, you’ll benefit from a well-organised session in a supportive environment.
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