Cycling for leisure

Cycling is a vey popular leisure activity in the Dengie Hundred as the area is comparatively flat and rural providing interesting, healthy and easy cycling.

Cycle racing

Alex Dowsett and Scott Cousins riding on the Bradwell Road. Photo copyright Gary Sanders

The area is home to Maldon and District Cycling Club who's members are often seen practicing and at weekends holding time trials.

The area is also home to one professional cycle race 'Dengie Marshes Tour' which is held annually in March.

Professional rider, Alex Dowsett, who rides for the Sky team still lives in the area learnt his trade riding on the local roads.

Leisure Cycling

Given the rural area many of the roads are narrow which means that cyclist must take care when a car approaches especially if beginners or children are in the party.

There are a few cycle lanes in Burnham but there are none anywhere else in the area.

Essex County Council have an excellent cycling rout called the Two Rivers Way. which is 25 miles long. However it is suitable for breaking down into small parts to suit all abilities. The route takes in most of the picturesque villages in this area.

Click here to visit the Two Rivers Way map.

Essex County Council also provide some important advice to cyclists.

Make sure you are aware of all other road users whilst you are cycling;

Remember to look behind before you make any man oeuvre;

Give clear signals of intent to other road users;

Look out for worn brake blocks or badly adjusted brakes;

Make sure tyres are inflated with a good tread and no bald patches;

Night Time

Wear something reflective at night time, or florescent during the day;

Make sure reflectors and lights are fitted and working

Cycle Helmets

Make sure your helmet conforms to safety standards:

Your helmet should fit properly and always have the chin strap fastened;

Renew your helmet immediately if you are involved in an accident, have a fall or it gets badly scratched, dropped or knocked.