INTRODUCING THE NEW FOREST OFF ROAD CLUB
The New Forest Off Road club is a women-led cycling community and registered community interest company based in Hampshire.
The group lead social and guided rides with the aim to help people connect with others, the Forest and themselves.
Since October 2020 the group has been paving the way for a new normal in bike clubs. NFORC was awarded “Community of the year" by Bikepacking.com in 2021. Cycling Uk referenced their revolutionary ideas, Bike Radar said they are ‘The Future of Cycling Clubs’ and Global Cycling Network drew on their experience for their article ‘How to Take the Macho Out of Your Group Ride’.
WHY JOIN US ON A RIDE
If you’re nervous about joining a group ride, or if you’re looking to become more familiar with riding off road in the Forest, NFORC are well placed to help you build your confidence.
To help people connect with each other, ride leaders facilitate introductions at the start of the ride. There is always a pitstop so remember to bring snacks and should something go wrong with your bike, there is always someone who can help out.
REMEMBER TO FOLLOW THE NEW FOREST CODE
The NFORC is proud to follow the New Forest Code.
It’s imperative that cyclists abide by the New Forest Code which includes sticking to the way marked gravel tracks. This ensures ground nesting birds like Night Jars and Woodlarks are not disturbed. Joining a group ride will help you learn routes that abide by the New Forest Code and allow you to see the many different areas and habitats of this special landscape.
“We know that lots of people come to the Forest to ride bikes. We registered as a CIC so that we could raise funds and get people in our community guiding qualifications so that we can help people better understand the landscape they’re riding in. On our guided rides, we stop to measure ancient trees, we learn the history of 1000 year old wells and share our knowledge of the New Forest pony and why it’s so important we leave them alone!” Nic - New Forest Off Road Club Director
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
“This was the most welcoming and encouraging ride I have ever been on. It was also very enjoyable with an amazing diverse group of people and youngsters. If anyone has been put off cycling in a group (and I can understand why) give NFORC a try. You will not be disappointed but be warned it's addictive.” - John Jackson, 'GridIron 100' Organiser.
NEW FOREST (TEMPORARY) TATTOOS
To raise funds, the New Forest Off Road Club have worked with a local designer to create temporary tattoos that celebrate some of the Forest’s animals. They are available to buy here.
BIKE & SEEK
On the 15th of June, the club is holding a ‘Bike & Seek’ event in Sway where you’ll be invited to bike around the area, seeking clues. It’s a chance to explore the forest at your own pace and in a different way, paying closer attention to beautiful surroundings. You’ll have to hone your map reading skills in order to complete the challenges and answer all the questions! You can read more information and get a ticket for the event here.
KEEP IN TOUCH
You can keep up to date with The New Forest Off Road Club by following them on instagram and signing up to their newsletter.