Hickory Velo Club from North Carolina doesn’t view digitalisation as a goal in itself, but rather as a way to improve club life. With Cyql, they found a solution that not only simplifies the organisation of group rides, but also integrates essential features such as the liability waiver.
Cycling, technology, and engagement
Russ is not only an active cyclist in Hickory Velo Club, but also manages the club’s website. “I build and maintain websites as a hobby and enjoy using technology to improve processes,” he explains. Together with fellow club member Dave, he helps organise this 120-member club, founded in 2004 in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. The focus is on road cycling, although there are also members who enjoy cyclocross and mountain biking.
Switching to Cyql
The search for a modern solution came from dissatisfaction with their previous app. “There was hardly any development, and it felt like a dead end,” says Russ. While searching on Google, he came across Cyql. “The description immediately appealed to us. After starting the trial period, we knew: this is exactly what we need.”
More than just planning rides
What immediately stood out was the completeness of the app. Russ: “We can create rides, appoint ride leaders, manage routes, post news updates, and members can respond. But the best part is that the liability waiver is integrated in the app. That’s crucial for a club in the United States. Everyone must sign the waiver, and thanks to Cyql, we can now manage that easily and centrally. That makes it possible for us to use Cyql seriously as the club’s central platform.”
Dave adds: “Cyql is an elegant and well-thought-out solution. Everything we need is there—without the hassle.”
Quick adoption within the club
The introduction of Cyql within Hickory Velo Club went remarkably smoothly. “Within two weeks, more than half of our members had already installed and started using the app,” says Russ. “We expect that soon nearly all of our communication will go through Cyql. That means we can finally leave time-consuming email newsletters behind.”
What could be improved?
Although satisfaction is high, Russ and Dave still see opportunities for further development. “We’re still using a separate tool for contribution management and memberships. If Cyql could integrate that too—including payments and automatic renewals—then we’d really have everything in one system.”
Why other clubs should use Cyql too
Russ is clear: “Cyql offers a well-designed and complete solution for organising group rides, activities, and communication within your club. Everything is centralised, well-structured, and mobile-accessible.” Dave agrees: “If you’re looking for a platform that truly understands what cycling clubs need, with a team that listens and constantly improves, then look no further. Cyql is the answer.”