Organise your own cycle

We love fundraising and want to help make sure it's as easy as possible for you. We've got lots of ideas to help get the money rolling in.

Yes, you can download another sponsorship form here.

If you don't have access to a printer, you can ask us for one us by emailing fundraising@macmillan.org.uk and we'll post one straight out to you and you can carry on with your fundraising.

Paying your money is easy. Find out how.

There are lots of popular routes in the UK and abroad. Think about how much time you have and how much of a challenge you want to set yourself. Some of the most popular challenges last year were:

• Lands End to John O’Groats
• London to Paris
• Coast to Coast (St Bees to Robin Hood’s Bay)
• Box Hill Olympic Circuit

Check out our guide to 5 of the UK's top cycling routes. Or, discover 10 of Britain's Top Long Distance Cycle Rides.

If you're cycling in memory of a friend or family member you could do a route that's special to you. Maybe somewhere you rode together if they were a cyclist, or cycle to a special place for you.

Lots of things can affect how far in advance you plan your cycle. Will you need to do some training? Will you want to hold extra fundraising events to help you reach your target?

If you're hoping to lead a large cycle, how much notice might people need to get it in their diaries?

Lots of our cyclists start planning three to six months before their cycle to give them plenty of time to fit fundraising and planning around their busy lives. If you're planning something ambitious, you might need a bit longer. Don't underestimate the amount of training you may need to do to feel ready for your cycle, so give yourself plenty of time.

Solo cycling events

If you are taking on a solo challenge, it can be safer (and more fun) to have friends or family meet you at points along the way. If that's not possible, make sure there's someone who knows your route and is waiting to meet you at the end.

As with all cycling, you need to plan your route carefully and think about avoiding busy roads. This will not only make it safer but make it much more enjoyable for you.

If you're not a regular cyclist you should read British Cycling’s top tips for cycle safety. You should also consider joining British Cycling and getting insured.

Group cycling events

If you are leading or organising a group cycle, one of the most important things to do is a risk assessment. This will help you to anticipate and plan for anything that might go wrong. You can find advice about how to do a risk assessment at the Health and Safety Executive.

There's also some useful information on organising your own event from the Institute of Fundraising.

You will also need to consider whether or not you need insurance. This might be insurance for yourself if you're doing an overseas cycle or public liability insurance if you're holding a public event. For private events this may not be necessary.

Here is some great advice for organising your own cycle from British Cycling.

If you need further advice, get in touch with our Supporter Care team on 0300 1000 200 or by emailing cycling@macmillan.org.uk.

Start with a roadworthy bike. It doesn't have to be shiny or expensive but it does need to be safe and suitable for the terrain you're riding on. If you are going to be riding a long way make sure you get it serviced beforehand so it can go the distance.

Like with any sport there is endless gear you can buy but we've listed the essentials below:

• Helmet – don't leave home without one
• Waterproofs
• Puncture repair kit (and the ability to use it!). Check YouTube or your local bike shop for classes
• Some comfy clothes. You don't have to go full lycra if that's not for you but something that's comfortable for riding in. It is worthwhile investing in a pair of padded shorts. They can be inexpensive and will make your cycle a bit more pleasant.

We have training plans from British Cycling to get you in tip-top shape. You should also check out our practical cycling tips and information and guidance on how to stretch, strengthen and fuel for your cycle with professional advice from our training partner Running with Us.

If you are planning on organising something bigger than a few friends you might have a bit more to consider. Read Cycling UK's guide on how to organise a charity bike ride.

You have no obligation to notify the council of a cycling event unless you are planning to close the roads, however you may wish to out of courtesy.

Read Cycling UK's guide on how to organise a charity bike ride.