No Ego, Just Adventure and Snacks

Claire Sharpe: Off-Road Cycling with Passion, Purpose, and Playfulness

How a lockdown gravel bike ride turned into a movement empowering more people to explore nature, community, and self-belief—one trail at a time.

When Claire S. first clipped into her gravel bike pedals during the lockdown, she wasn’t chasing Strava segments or setting out to build a movement. Like many of us, she was just looking for a way to stay sane—and maybe find a bit of fun—in a world that suddenly felt very closed off.

Fast forward to today, and Claire is not only a Level 3 Mountain Bike Leader, guide, coach, and founder of All Terre Adventures, but also a rising voice in the movement for more inclusive and intentional cycling spaces in the UK.

In a recent episode of the Ride to Success podcast, hosted by Pedro Couto Lopes, Claire pulled back the curtain on her journey into off-road cycling, her philosophy of inclusion, and how marketing and storytelling can reshape the way we experience adventure on two wheels.

“Off-Road Cycling Hype Woman” with a Mission

When asked to introduce herself, Claire laughed and admitted she struggles to boil down her many hats. But after a pause, she found a title that suits:

“I’m an off-road cycling hype woman.”

It’s fitting. Claire’s energy is infectious—not in the shouty influencer kind of way, but in the gentle, passionate encouragement of someone who genuinely wants you to feel the joy she’s found in nature, community, and self-propelled adventure.

She got her start during lockdown after years as a roller derby coach and skater. With roller rinks closed and contact sports off the table, she sought something outdoorsy with a dash of adrenaline. A gravel bike was her gateway.

“It completely changed my perspective of the city I lived in… suddenly Bristol was this whole new place I could explore.”

That exploration quickly turned into something bigger: bikepacking trips, rally rides across Wales and the Alps, and eventually, organizing events herself. She now trains other guides and runs workshops and coaching through her platform, All Terre Adventures.

the Word “Inclusive”

Claire’s strongest message—and perhaps her most refreshing one—is her call to redefine what we mean when we say “inclusive” in cycling.

“People say, ‘this event is inclusive,’ but inclusive of what? You’ve got to define who you’re building space for.”

All Terre Adventures isn’t for “Gary who smokes 40 a day and hates women,” Claire jokes (not). Nor is it for riders obsessed with marginal gains and power meters. It’s for people who want to ride in nature, free of ego, and maybe stop for snacks or photos.

Rather than trying to be everything to everyone, Claire advocates for clear, intentional communication that allows people to self-select into events that match their vibe.

“You have to be honest. You can’t be inclusive of everyone—but you can make sure the right people feel truly welcome.”

Language, Imagery, and Snacking

Claire’s approach to building community is deeply rooted in her background in marketing. For her, creating a welcoming ride starts well before anyone turns a pedal.

From website copy to Instagram photos to the language used in ride briefings, everything is carefully crafted to signal, “This space is for you.”

For example, she uses inclusive imagery (different bikes, clothing, and body types), ensures ride expectations are spelled out clearly, and isn’t afraid to weave in her personality.

“I just write like I talk,” she laughs. “That’s the tone of voice that fits. It’s playful, it’s warm—and that matters.”

She’s even introduced playfulness as a defining part of off-road riding. Claire believes that cycling is just adult playtime—and that’s worth celebrating.

More Women Razzing Around

Whether it’s a sunrise ride in the Alps or a Monday morning trail session before work in Bristol, Claire has discovered the power of the bike to shift perspective, ignite confidence, and reconnect people to the outdoors—and to themselves.

“The secret is—it really is that fun.”

Listen to the Full Episode

🎧 Catch the full conversation with Claire Sharpe on the Ride To Success podcast, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube

Topics discussed:

- The Evolution of Claire's Cycling Experience

- Creating a Welcoming Cycling Community

- Inclusivity in Cycling Events

- Barriers to Women in Off-Road Cycling

- Strategies for Lowering Barriers in Cycling Events

- Connecting Brands with Cycling Communities

- Life Lessons from Cycling Adventures

- Creating Inclusivity in Cycling

- The Joy of Adventure and Playfulness

Thanks for listening

#RideToSuccess