1st cycling event, what to expect

[Annon12345]

Fairly newish to road cycling, can manage around 13 miles an hour over 15 miles. I'm tempted to enter a local charity event next week which have several distances the smallest being 25 miles which I think is achievable. I've done loads of running events so know the set up but never a bike one. Just wondered what to expect and what will I need?! There's not much info on the site, looking at the pictures people tie numbers to their handle bars do people normally go prepared with cable Ties?! I don't have a bike lock tho figured using the toilet it would be safe at the start finish?! I'm so nervous and unsure. I'd love to have a go it does seem quite a relaxed event judging the website and more a charity fundraiser but still!

Good luck with your event ! Events all vary a bit, but I suggest you should assume:
Do take cable ties with you ready to tie your number on
Do take a pack of wet wipes or similar (always useful)
Food usually is provided (snacks, sweets) but take your own if you want to be sure of having something specific
Most people will have bike locks as standard, the question for you of whether you should lock up your bike or not will depend on where your start /finish location is, e.g. could be a very different atmosphere in a country village hall versus an urban area.
If 25 miles is longer than you'd normally do, then make sure you have extra padding if that works for you, or else try using chamois cream - you want to avoid chafing

Make sure your bike is in road worthy condition. Carry a spare tube, patches, levers, multi tool and pump... make sure you can change a tube if you puncture (should be able to do this if you're going out anyway - can't rely on having phone reception to get help). Snacks in your pockets. Water. Wouldn't bother with a bike lock - silly extra weight to lug about. Just don't leave your bike if you stop. I very rarely use public toilets, there aren't really any where I ride. Quiet fields/ hedges are your friend. Make sure you've got some sun protection on. Carry some cash and credit card. And happy peddling.

Lots of good advice already.
All I'll add is the cyclists at such events are super friendly and there will always be someone about ready to help out if you get in a muddle. Everyone was a newbie once and people love to encourage and support fellow riders.
Have a glorious day.

Link to the event you entered, maybe can advise better.

Honestly there will be hundreds of naice bikes left around everywhere unlocked at start & any stops. You'd be an oddball to actually lock yours.

I've done lots of cycling events and lots of running events. I find cyclists friendlier!!

You usually check in 30 mins or so before your time, and get your number, and whatever string/ties you need to attach it to your bike. I usually take zip ties anyway, as they are easier to use when fiddling around brake cables etc.

For a 25 mile route, you'll probably pass 1 feed stop, which will have something to eat and water - but check with the organisers. I did one event, locally high profile with trays of sandwiches and sausage rolls from Morrison's. But sometimes is flapjack, or cereal bars, or jelly babies. Take emergency food and a cash card on your pockets.

Your bike needs to be in good working order, but often these events have a roaming mechanic. Again, check, and if not, learn to change an inner tube at the very least.

Don't forget suncream if it's sunny!!

Have fun!

It might be worth getting a pocket sized cafe lock, not so much for the start, but if you need to stop en-route.

Thank you all! Really looking forward to it. As you can tell by the date I didn't do the one last week but have entered another for the end of June!