What is CUCC (Cambridge University Cycling Club)?

Updated

CUCC stands for Cambridge University Cycling Club, a university cycling club that caters for all University members and provides access to all cycling disciplines, from beginners to elite athletes. It is the site to check if you are a University member looking for club rides, racing, or a way into cycling in and around Cambridge.

Who it is for

The club describes itself as catering for all University members, with a range that runs from beginners to elite athletes. That breadth matters: the same club organises competitive racing and beginner-friendly social riding, so you do not need a racing background to take part.

What the club does

Activity What it involves
All cycling disciplines Access to the full range of cycling disciplines the club supports
BUCS races Regular competition in British Universities & Colleges Sport races
Social and touring rides Organised rides that let beginners build fitness and discover the countryside around Cambridge and beyond
Training camps An annual training camp; the 2026 edition was held in Calpe, Spain, over a week in January

The social and touring rides are the clearest entry point for newcomers: the club explicitly frames them as a way for beginners to improve fitness and explore the area.

Where to find news and events

  • News: training news, race reports, and results are posted on the club site. A recent example is "The Annual CUCC Training Camp Round-up," published 8 February 2026 by Will Lowden, covering the Calpe camp.
  • Events: the club points readers to its "Training & Events" calendar for upcoming events.
  • Mailing list: the site includes a sign-up link for the club mailing list, which is the practical way to hear about rides and dates.

What the training camp shows about the club in practice

The 2026 camp write-up is a useful window into how the club operates. Riders travelled roughly 2,000 miles to Calpe expecting sunshine, but met rain and around 5°C instead. The account describes:

  • a Sunday ride on mostly dry roads, timed around the best available forecast;
  • a Monday rest day when rain made the roads unsafe, with riders rejecting four hours on a gym bike and exploring the off-peak seaside town instead;
  • Tuesday group rides in three guided groups, with Nathan and Issac climbing Col du Rates in under 15 minutes, a fast descent down Tarbena, and an evening spa session and music bingo.

Two practical takeaways: rides are organised in guided groups by level, and the club plans around weather rather than forcing a schedule.

How to get started

  1. Confirm you are a University member — that is the audience the club states it serves.
  2. Sign up to the club mailing list via the link on the site.
  3. Check the "Training & Events" calendar for upcoming rides and sessions.
  4. Start with a social or touring ride if you are new, and look to BUCS races if you want to compete.

The site does not state membership fees, so check with the club directly on cost and joining steps.