Describing itself as the world’s biggest cycling pain cave party, CrankedUp is aiming to offer an alternative event for locked-down riders, anyone that doesn’t fancy leaving the house or anyone with nothing better to do.
Taking place on Sunday 20th December, the idea is for teams of friends to take it in turns to compete in a relay lasting two, six or twelve hours. With any rider with a static trainer and the ability to log rides via Strava able to attend, those not riding will be able to hang out in a private pit area, which could also make the event an ideal virtual Christmas get together.
To amuse those both riding or relaxing, there will be live DJ sets, plus talks and a live leader board and commentary. Ending at 22:00, the final hour of the event will be an excuse for a Covid-compliant virtual drink along.
With riders able to either simply spin or ride any course via their preferred virtual cycling platform, the communal aspect of the event will be mediated via Zoom.
‘Having operated across the event tech industry and charity sector, both of which have had a very tough year, our team recognised the need for a new kind of event to inspire and show new possibilities, certainty and purpose,’ explains event creator Keith Williams.
‘Our ambition is to pave the way for new human possibilities through technology and connected experiences, enabling people to build more active connections from home, whilst making a positive impact on the world.
‘We want to make turbo cycling indoors the most fun and as exciting as it can be using multiple connection points including music, racing and commentary, to support riders in ways you can’t in either a sportive or on the track.
‘With technology, no longer do you need to do it on your own.’
While this sounds possibly more agreeable than the concept of the virtual office-Christmas party, it probably lags slightly behind the enjoyment you could get out of a tenner on other subscription-only chatrooms.
Still, with the option to also chip in for charity, find an excuse to see your friends, do some exercise and support the hard-hit events industry, it could be the perfect excuse to raise yourself from the sofa.
You can find more details over at crankedup.co.uk