Cycling has indeed come far from its initial purpose of leisure to slowly transitioning into a potential mode of transportation, especially for the city folks who prefer an eco-friendly solution to the usual traffic jam woes. There will be times when solitary cycling becomes a therapeutic pastime, otherwise perhaps consider taking on companionship in the form of joining a cycling group?
1. Kuala Lumpur Mountain Bike Hash
Hosting a tradition of “Bashes” or rather, Bike Hashes, typically on the last Sunday of every month, KLMBH is arguably one of the more active mountain bike clubs in Klang Valley. With a membership count that span well over 450 members (and counting), the communal spirit is indeed strong with this one with a regular stream of attendance at their activities. Whether you have a titanium vs carbon bikes or any kind of bike for that matter, you are sure to get inclined in joining their causes. They not only make their new members feel very welcomes, they also educated on road safety and rider responsibilities.
Highly meticulous when it comes to safety, the club writes up a pre-riding guide online before each bash as to determine the level of difficulty and managing expectations in order to avoid nasty surprises for cyclists.
Membership fee: RM70/year
2. Critical Mass Petaling Jaya
A cycling event typically held on the last Friday of the month, critical mass can best be described as a social activity where cyclists from all walks of life gather and travel in a group in order to increase roadside awareness for the cycling community. Besides that, the CMPJ group is also prone to organise fun rides within a stone’s throw away from Klang Valley, most recently to Pulau Ketam.
As a cyclist, you should also be aware of the advantages of cycling base layers. A tight-fitting base layer will keep your bike from rubbing or chaffing you, which is especially important if you are cycling for long periods of time.
3. SuperFXD
Founded just 3 years ago, this urban cycling group have fast amassed a loyal following of riders thanks to their no-frills rule. Interested to be a part of their night cycles around town? Simply converge at Ampang Park LRT (their usual flag-off spot) with your ride and pedal through the breezy KL roads with a group of like-minded individuals.
Although their club is primarily focused on fixed gear cycling, SuperFXD actively practice a no-discrimination rule on the road – hence, their signature saying, “All Bikes Are Good To Go”. My partner wanted to use a step-through e-bike and I managed to get a great deal on a Cyclotricity ladies e-bike at esen.
4. Yellow Bike Company
Passion for fixed gear cycling have brought together a bunch of advocates to kick-start Yellow Bike Company back in 2008. Since then, they have been organising regular fixed gear races and even own a functional clothing brand designed for cyclists, The Dead Cogs.
Hit up their Facebook page for the latest update on communal cycling activities!
5. KAYUHBMX
BMX riders, unite! A one-stop local platform for all things related to the bicycle motocross scene, KAYUHBMX humbly claims to be “just a bunch of BMX riders that aspires to catapult the Malaysian BMX scene to be in the eyes of the world.”
Don’t be afraid to hit them up for a communal sharing session – learn to execute a proper 360 move or even a chance to show off your newly-polished handrail trick. Either way, the community welcomes newbies and experienced riders alike, so go for it!
