BIG Bike Ride FAQs

Sunday 14 July 2024, Stadium Park 

With a focus on fun and family cycling, the Active Sunderland BIG Bike Ride offers four rides, providing a route to suit all ages and abilities. 

5 mile, 12 mile, 20 mile and 38 mile routes (approx distances) will all start and finish at Stadium Park, SR5 1SU.

The rides take place on the city's expansive cycle network and some roads. Due to the varying surfaces on the route, road bikes are not recommended. 

Where can I find out more about the routes? 

Full route information will be available shortly.

How do I get there? 

The BIG Bike Ride sets off from Stadium Park next to the Stadium of Light - SR5 1SU 
 

Is parking available on site? 

Yes. Ample parking is available on site. Traffic marshals will guide you to the allocated car park. 

Do participants need to have any previous experience to take part? 

Yes, due to length of routes.

The shortest route is 5 miles on traffic free roads and will be led by an experienced cyclist. This route is especially suitable for families but participants should still be able to cycle confidently.     

The 12 mile route will suit the more casual cyclist and some families however there are a couple of steep hills.

The 20 mile and certainly the 38 mile routes are more suitable for regular / experienced cyclists.

It is advisable, regardless of route chosen, to complete some rides before the event.  

Follow our Facebook page - Active Sunderland - for details of upcoming family / beginner cycling sessions. 

I have a disability can I participate?  

Please contact us at active@sunderland.gov.uk  and we will advise you on the suitability of the various route options.  

Are the routes signposted? 

All routes will be available on Strava / Mapometer and we encourage all participants to be familiar with your chosen route in advance and download them via the free apps. 

All routes will be signposted throughout. Initially the routes follow the established C2C which is already signed and subsequent temporary signage will further guide you. In addition, marshals will be located at key positions to assist you further. 

Will I be given a personal time when I complete the ride? 

No. The BIG Bike Ride is a non-competitive, enjoyable, participation event giving you the opportunity to get active and enjoy Sunderland's cycle routes. 

What do I need to wear? 

Please dress appropriately for the weather conditions on the day. If rain is forecast, it is advisable to carry a lightweight waterproof jacket. If the sun is very bright please remember to apply a suitable sun block. We advise cyclists to wear protective clothing and carry spare inner tubes etc. 

All participants must wear a suitable helmet for the duration of the ride regardless of the rider's experience and ability. Helmets will be available to loan on the day if you do not have one.  

Are there toilets and changing on site? 

Toilets will be available on site at the registration area. Additional portable toilets will be placed along the route and further facilities are available at Washington Wetland Centre and Rainton Meadows Nature reserve.   

What if I feel ill or injure myself? 

St. John Ambulance will provide medical cover on the day of the event.  

There will also be a pick up vehicle available to transport you back to the start area should you require assistance.

Are refreshments available at the event? 

Yes, refreshments will be available to purchase from inside the Beacon of Light.

Please also bring plenty of water for hydration during the ride and any food/snacks that you may need throughout the day. Water stations will also be available along the route so please make sure you have a refillable bottle with you. 

If I don't turn up on the day will I get a refund? 

If you don't turn up on the day, we will be unable to issue a refund. In the event that we cancel the event, for example in the case of adverse weather conditions, then a full refund will be issued to all participants. 

Where can I find further information about other Active Sunderland events? 

Information about all Active Sunderland BIG events can be found at Events - MySunderland or search for Active Sunderland on Facebook to keep up to date with all the latest information.