As promised, we’re starting a regular group ride. I’ve dubbed it the ‘Tenax’ ride. Might be a silly name but it’s memorable. An ‘Audax’ ride is a ride over extreme distance where everyone must finish within the set time frame. Audax is latin for brave (or bold). In contrast, Tenax is latin for holding fast (or staying steady), and so that more or less describes the tone of this ride. We’re aiming for steady speed over a moderate distance. The emphasis is on fun, socially athletic riding that allows people to extend their skills and fitness in a friendly and supportive environment. All are welcome. Leaving Cafe Zest (55 Beach Street, Port Melbourne) at 7.30 on Saturday morning, this ride heads first to the Beach Street / Princes Street roundabout, turns around, proceeds the complete the length of Beach Road (turning around at Mordialloc), then back to Cafe Zest for coffee and a catch up afterwards. The total distance is just a smidge under 60 kilometres. What sets this ride apart is that it is broken into several clearly defined speed groups to cater for all levels of rider, but it starts and finishes in the same place so that friends can come together, ride at their own level and then regroup afterwards for a coffee. The standard speed groups are 25 kilometres per hour average, 28 kph, 30 kph, 32 kph, 34 kph and 'fast'. Groups may or may not exist on the day depending on the number of riders and their speed preferences. At present we have regular 25 kph, 28 kph and 32 kph groups. First time riders (and less experienced riders) should start with the 25 kph or 28 kph speed groups to get used to riding in a bunch and to introduce yourself to the ride. Apart from the 'fast' group, all speed groups must aim for that precise average speed, although the speed at each point may be higher or lower depending on conditions such as wind. For this reason, riders are encouraged to have a speedo on their bike. Riders are also strongly encouraged to become Bicycle Network Victoria members to take advantage of the third-party insurance offered through the membership, for the protection of yourselves and other riders. All you need is a roadworthy bike with one or preferable two bottle cages (with bottles!). Most will be riding road bikes but it is by no means necessary. This ride is run every two weeks (starting the 4th of February, 2012) so if you can't make it this time, the next isn't far away!