We’ve had a few messages from people who’ve been startled to see that NPS races don’t require a British Cycling licence to race anymore.

Seeing as many riders who buy the licenses only do so in order to be able to race, this turnaround has left them wondering why they bothered. There’s not even a discount on the entry fees for BCF members.

Thanks to Andy who sent in a copy of his query and the reply from Bob Barber of British Cycling which is printed below;

“It was decided that this year’s promoters needed to maximise the entry
potential, and therefore non BC members could race in any XC event.
However, they will not gain ranking points or series points. This would
be to attract the casual entrant, who may only want to ride their local
event.

Therefore you have a choice of not being a BC silver member, and not (having) the
benefits of public liability insurance and free legal aid at all times
when you are on or with your bike.”

Bob Barber

Director, Membership & Event Services

So in short you only need a licence if you want to pick up series points, but there are also insurance and other member benefits from being a licence holder.

We hope that sets the record slightly straighter.