Road sportives are non-competitive organised events that provide the opportunity to spend a day in the saddle just concentrating on the riding, with the route, feed stations and riding buddies sorted for you.

Entering a sportive that you know will provide a real challenge is a great way to motive yourself to get out and ride – and there are hundreds available, from 12 miles to well over 100.

A number of women’s only rides are available, if you want to spin out with like minded ladies, too. Here’s a look at some of the best on the market for 2015…