18th December 2008 - Ings

8 riders were organised enough to come out to play, Jamie rode out from Kendal, James was going to ride out but managed to grab a taxi and arrived just in time, i.e. we were still planning a route trying to avoid the quagmire in parts of Kentmere, after the snow and ice melted! We headed up the first lane towards Grassgarth, at the first junction we discussed more options, someone joked about Garburn being rocky and not muddy and so we headed on the High Borrans route to Dubbs Road, stopping near the reservoir for some of Neils tasty snacks, good show! Onwards and upwards until Garburn, then left and down the track, it is fairly rocky and so some walking was entertained, we regrouped at the junction with Longmire Road track, but we were missing some, Chris M had found a 'snake' and stopped to fix the 'bite', first aid ably assisted by Charlie. We all caught up for the road ride back and them managed a wee drink in the pub and a few chips.
Riding options over the festive holiday look like this: for Sunday morning rides contact Grant & for a New Years day ride Jamie is keen, not sure where (Tradition is Claiffe to Hawkshead, but I tried to check out the Ferry but CCC web page not loading!) and the Lakes will probably be busy! so maybe Barbon, meet 10-10.30am near the Church (with extra leg to Dent for the keen and weather dependant?) Next official ride is 8th January 2009 at Ings again.

11th December 2008 - Staveley Kentmere

6 riders turned up (eventually) even though there had been some snow, it had turned to ice on some of the side roads and parking places. CT & JB had been out in Kentmere the Sunday before and even though it was snowy there was a MTB/Run orienteering event, with lots of dejected MTBers asking was there much more walking? Our regular circuit ride had taken over 3 hours and invloved 50%+ of walking, still it was peaceful.
SO this evening we wondered how the ice would be and set off up the lane over the Scroggs bridge and take the right turn up the lane to Middle Elfhowe and then the bridleway to Hall lane, even this was a test, with much slipping and sliding, you have to be very smooth. We worked on up to Staveley head, a left and right to Long Houses, the descent was icy, but still fun to experience a cold crisp night. Once down to the road, the icy conditions led the group to turn left and head back, so half a ride it was!!! No drinks stop as we headed home for a warm up.
Next ride on Thursday 18th December will be from Ings, when all the cold stuff will have melted away and we can have a festive drink at the Watermill.

4th December 2008 - Elterwater

Unfortunately this ride was cancelled due to the ice and snow, better luck next time.

27th November 2008 - Haverthwaite

8 riders Charlie, Jamie, Grant, Neil, Ian, Chris M, Paul and George turned out for this special single track ride. Paul turned up after driving for over an an hour to say he had just realised that he had left his shoes at home. George offered to lend him his and was ready to go back home when Chris M offered to swap bikes with Paul as Chris's bike had flat pedal extensions to his clip ons. So everyone was happy. Leaving the Anglers Arms we headed for the clock tower at Haverthwaite where we took the bridleway on the left which leads to Brow top Backbarrow. At the end of the track turn right on the road and up the hill to the bridleway on the left that leads to Canny Hill. This was extremely muddy in places leading to some pushing and bikes clogged up with mud. At the end of this track we took the lanes back to the A590 where we crossed to join the old road and then a left at the end of this before taking the right onto the fire road leading to Simpson Ground. About two thirds of the way up this hill 5 of the riders took the left bridleway down to Staveley in Cartmel despite Ian trying to persuade them to take an additional loop but as Charlie and Grant had already taken the decent the 3 old guys George, Ian and Neil were the only ones up for the additional adventure of the extra loop. This involved a further climb up the fire road turning right at the top of the hill and then right again after about half a mile onto the sign posted bridleway for an excellent technical downhill. We then crossed the fire road and joined the bridleway down to Stavely in Cartmel which was excellent. Taking the lanes through Staveley to Newby Bridge and then right over the bridge to Lakeside where at the end of the village we took the track on the left just before reaching the road to Finsthwaite. The track takes us up a steep climb before leveling off to cross the fields to Finsthwaite. After crossing the field Neil realised his chain had broken (for some reason Ian and Neil pushed their bikes across the field) Neil quickly fixed his chain as due to problems with his freewheel his power link had snapped. We then proceeded through Finsthwaite towards Haverthwaite taking the excellent bridleway on left at the end of the village down through the woods to Newby Bridge. We then joined the Lakeside to Haverthwaite railway at Newby Bridge station for the special single track trip back to Backbarrow where we joined the main road to Haverthwaite and back to the cars arriving at 9.15pm. The other 5 riders had arrived back some 15 minutes earlier and all but Paul and Jamie had gone home. Next weeks ride 06:30-06:45 Britannia Inn, Elterwater - Loughrigg Terrace

13th November 2008 - Claiffe

Only two riders Neil and George turned out on this wet and dreary night and Neil having ridden from Windermere via the ferry was about to go back home when George turned up at 6.50pm. We started the ride by leaving the pub at Far Sawrey and taking the left bridle way up the hill and into the woods before decending down to the lake as usual a great ride but a little tricky over the wet rocks. We then proceeded along the lakeside debating whether we should opt for Ian's special route or go via base camp. George felt he knew Ian's route but was not sure which way to turn when the track met the fire road. We proceeded along the lakeside and took the left track for Ian's route. On meeting the fire road we turned left (wrong of Course) and then proceeded to find the short loop which we usely do on this ride. Unfortunately we took the left turn which took us back down towards the Belle Grange on the lakeside. Realising we had taken the wrong route we took the footpath leading of to the right thinking this would take us back up but unfortunately it transversed the hill through the woods to join the bridlepath we first started on. This track was difficult in places and a lot of pushing was needed possibly why it is a footpath however there was also some interesting downhill sections and I would imagine on a clear day the view are excellent. Evetually we arrived back at Far Sawrey at 8.45pm just in time for Neil to cycle back to catch the last ferry and for George to also make it in time to save the additional drive via Ambleside. At leasr we got a free ferry ride. The moral to this is that two old blokes should not be allowed out at night without supervision.
Thanks to George for the words and Neil for the navigation.

6th November 2008 - Lowick

5 riders George, Ian, Charlie, Neil and Chris M turned out on what started as a dry and warm night compared to last week. There was a debate on whether to take the ride to the south west of the A5084 or the one into Grizedale forest to the North west after some debate it was agreed to take the South west route. We set off from the Red Lion at Lowick Bridge, past Lowick Hall take the first right hand lane, follow this and ignore the first left and take the next left onto the bridleway up Long Lane, up to a farm, Kiln Bank, turn right thru' a gate and on past the barns to a second gate. This area is Subberthwaite Bank, the track was pretty dry in comparison to other times we have completed this route, veer right and follow the track up towards the lane, Continue up the lane past Tottlebank and follow the bridleway west, cross over the lane and keep going to enjoy the downhill, turn right at the road near Fell Gate, blast down the road for a mile and look for a bridleway on the right hand side. Now enjoy the climb up, it's a tester, and only Chris M managed it all the way. We had debated before we approached this climb whether to take the single track at the top which cuts off to the left and is a great ride to the river but it was agreed that we would not want to do this climb twice. This gets you to Woodland Fell where we headed east to Cockenskell and follow the lanes back to Blawith, back on the main road and right turn back to the pub. Here Ian and Neil were the only ones to stop for a drink.
Thanks to George for the script, next ride is Far Sawrey meet near the hotel.

30th October 2008 - Troutbeck

George told us that Paul had left his battery pack at home and would be a bit late, he was detouring to collect it. Maybe the wait in the cold dulled our brains as we waited by Trout Beck, but eventually someone’s grey cells sparked into life, and it was suggested we set off on the first short loop, that would see us go up the climb through Limefitt Park and then up onto the bridleway, for the short loop to bring us down the quick descent and back onto the A592, Kirkstone road. Just at the moment we were about to set off, we saw the lights of Paul's car come round the corner, so eventually Ian, Grant, Charlie, Chris M, Jamie, George, Paul and Neil all set off for the first loop. Or maybe Paul had had a cunning plan to miss the first loop and just mistimed his arrival, no surely not?
By the time we had completed the first loop we had then really warmed up. Now a left, and briefly along the Kirkstone road, the right turn taking us on the track down to the river, and a few riders encountered trouble getting stuck in a deep rut on the descent on the downhill track to Trout Beck. Over the bridge’s and up into Town End, then on into Troutbeck to take the sharp left turn onto Robin Lane.
Regrouping at the bench, gave time for some of us to get our breath back after the climb, a superb viewpoint and even in the dark enjoy the lights of Windermere and Bowness below us. Turning left and now down the fast descent onto Holbeck Lane.
Jamie had thought it a good idea to go down Mirk Lane and come back up Wain Lane, therefore taking this loop anti clockwise, rather than the more usual clockwise option. This had not been met with universal approval, but no one could come up with a good enough reason not to. So joining Holbeck Lane saw us pass the Wain Lane turn and then quickly onto the descent down Mirk Lane. As we regrouped at the junction with the A591, we seemed to all agree the descent had been good, in fact very good. Then the climb up Wain Lane, parts of it proved too challenging to ride at times and was made even more difficult with some very deep channels crossing the track in places, a legacy of the previous week’s very heavy rains. Probably just as well we followed Jamie’s idea for the anti clockwise loop; otherwise we would have had these deep channels to negotiate on the descent-scary stuff.
Along Holbeck Lane to quickly return to Troutbeck and to the last off road descent, bringing us down alongside the church, a day too early for Halloween so no spooky goings on tonight, and back to our cars.
As Joel pointed out a couple of weeks ago, we should take note- to follow the teachings (and wise route choice) of the shaman that is Jamie Booth a little more closely- tonight it was agreed it had been a good route choice from Jamie.
We all wanted to get away quickly to get warmed up and get fed –so no drinks tonight.
Thanks to Neil for the words.

23th October Sedbergh for Dentdale

Due to the severe weather Thursday's ride was cancelled.

Next week: 30th Oct 06:30-06:45 Troutbeck Church

16th October 2008 Watermill Inn, Ings for Garburn!

It was a dark moonlit night as the 3 intrepid explorers (Grant, Neil, Joel) bravely gathered at the rendezvous location (OK... Ings) and then the argument started. Grant had seen the light were on in the pub and could almost smell the chips, 'do we have to do Garburn', 'why don't we don't a smaller rider, nobody will notice', 'we can tell them all we went on an epic'. I suggested we were scheduled to do Garburn so we should continue with the ride and that caused another discussion... 'well which way round?'... 'Troutbeck to Kentmere' I suggested. And so to cut a long story short, Grant said it was now my decision and 'I was going to pay for my actions!'...

...and then it got really dark...

We began by climbing up the road, past Broadgate Farm, Mislet and up Dubbs reservoir, continuing past the quarry where the twinkling lights of Troutbeck and Limefit could be seen below. The moon was almost full and it was surprisingly warm for the time of year, although that could be due to the fact that we hadn't seen a downhill section yet and we were still climbing. I then made the mistake of questioning whose 'great idea it was to go this way round'... I felt that Neil and Grant were surprisingly calm about it!

We all regrouped at the final gate at the top of Garburn before the descent, Grant was obviously still in training mode because he was first at the top followed by Neil and then me, although my excuse was that I'm still recovering! Everyone discussed their fears of the descent in the dark, all I know is that there is a gnarly bit a third of the way down, so Grant gave a Jamie masterclass in the art of the attack position which is described as lowering your body position on the descent and not stretching out and raising your body up when things get tricky.

All seemed to be going well until I ended up on a ditch and Neil injured himself with his handbars so we will have to follow the teachings of the shamen that is Jamie Booth a little more closely, and rely less on Grant the apprentice.

Once we had all arrived safely it was decided to blast along the road to Browfoot, through the farm, up the hill on the road, and turning left at the top and through The Heights before the descent back to the road above Ings where the rocks were more slippery than ever and it was more of a challenge than Garburn!

On arrival back at Ings it was too cold to change so the pub and chips were off this week.

Next ride: 23th Oct Sedbergh for Dentdale with lights (6.30 for 6.45 departure)

9th October 2008 - Winster

5 riders Charlie, Ian, Neil, Paul, Rod (with new lights!) and George met up near the church in Winster, To start head south along the lane until the ford at Birks Bridge, cross the ford (no option as water was extremely deep) or take the little stone bridge. Then climb up the steep hill, turn right at Cote Hill and take the lane past the pond, ride on down to high house and the muddy section here we encontered a rather large bull that looked a bit scary in our bike lights. Back to the saftey of the road and the route went right, past the pub and on to find the bridleway on the left hand side up past Bow Mabble Breast! Here Rod insisted on a group photo to celebrate the occassion. We then took the left lane to the road a right turn and then a quick left onto a lane near Barrow Plantation, here the puddles were somewhat deep identified when we heard cries from Ian as his feet and cranks were submerged. Then we proceeded down the track and back on the Winster road to the cars followed by a drink in The Brown Horse.
Contributed picture, we take no responsibility for true likeness or otherwise!
Next weeks ride 16th October Watermill at Ings for "Garburn"

2nd October 2008 - Elterwater

Well not much to report, apparently 4 riders turned up for Elterwater, Grant, Jamie, Charlie and Neil, I say apparently 'cause they have not come up with a story, I think they may have retired to the pub! Any news on events will be posted in due course.
Late news from Neil...
"The Thursday was very wet, and so didn’t encourage many to go night riding. Only Charlie, Jamie, Grant and I were the four brave riders to arrive at Elterwater. Having just about stopped raining around 5.30, things looked to be improving. As we set off, climbing up alongside the river, towards the quarry, the rain returned –but only briefly, would our luck hold.
On climbing through Sawrey’s Wood, down past Dale End and on towards Little Langdale, Charlie suggested we turn right. So a quick blast on the road then left at the cattle grid and then left at Fell Foot Bridge. I had a recurrence of a gear problem; thanks are due to Jamie for getting me going again. At the fork in the track, instead of going right for Tilberthwaite, we followed Charlie’s idea, to go left down the descent by Low Hall Garth climbing hut. A great descent in the dark, too soon we arrived at the ford.
Not across the ford, yet, so onwards then left and upwards, past Stang End and High Park, just before the A593 a left turn took us into Tongue Intake Plantation, through the wood and the fast descent down to the T junction track and fence right at the bottom of the descent, so no room for error. A left took us up through the woods, and back to High Park and then a left at Stang End brought us to Hodge Close and down the loose slate track, and then on down to the ford.
Our lights showed that the River Brathay was too deep to ford, so over the bridge. The track on the other side had some big deep puddles, on the left is a raised stone narrow platform running along by the wall, which Jamie rode along, Charlie followed by walking along. As I watched Grant bravely negotiate the water blocking the track, and as it was quite deep, the best option seemed to be to follow Jamie’s example. I’d only just started riding on the raised platform, when I had two valuable insights into night riding and following Jamie; as Jamie is somewhat taller than me, and therefore his bars are further from the ground, and also one limitation of lights mounted on handlebars is that the ends of the bars are not very visible. These facts came abruptly apparent as suddenly my bars suddenly turned, caught on a stone on the wall alongside me, causing me to carry out an emergency dismount- leaping off my bike as it tipped, I landed, impressively I thought, squarely on both feet, I even managed to hold my bike above me so it didn’t land on me. It was at this point that I the deep puddle I landed in, showed me the limit of my waterproof socks!
On to Little Langdale and then past Dale End saw us at the gate by Sawrey’s Wood, for a change we didn’t climb through the wood, but went right and down the descent, and quickly on the road and back to the cars.
Conclusion: The figure of eight route worked well, we only had a few spots of rain, and most of the route was on fairly firm tracks, which was just as well after all the rain of the previous days, and I need longer socks.
Despite Chris’s suspicions we didn’t even get to the pub-just 100% mountain biking!"
Thursday 9th's ride is from Winster, enjoy.

25 September 2008 - Barley Bridge, Staveley

Neil, Jamie, Chris M, Grant, George, Paul, Joel, Charlie and Ian turned up for what was the 1st night ride of the season. The ride began in daylight with a jaunt up over the river and through Scroggs Farm, briefly back on to the road we all climbed up to Elfhowe where some managed to ride the grass track along the river and up to the road but this is always a tough climb and it was reasuring to see others pushing up to the road.
The road then continues on to Park House where the bridleway begins. Forestry machinery had been here and the muddy track and a large log pile were evident, luckily it was dry because in a few weeks it will be slippy! Turning left towards HP plantation the conversation turned to the new route, rather than taking the rocky track of HP some were tempted by the grassy alternative that runs parallel to the descent. For some the preference was to take the traditional challenge of HP with it's rocky rollercoaster, for the others the speed of the grassy descent took on another challenge... and before we knew it we were back at the road, climbing up past Browfoot, at the top of the road climb we all regrouped to admire the view and the autumnal sunset. Turning right we were back off road and heading for the famous 3 river challenge, to begin with it's past Mickle Moss and onto the first river crossing, turning right and heading towards the second crossing, it was now twilight and getting difficult to judge the landscape, with lights now on it was all downhill through the fast paced rocky descent towards Croft Head, the final challenge was the rocky track that has been overgrown with bracken where it gets rockier until the drop offs in the dark! Phew! With everyone safely back at the road it was a sprint back to Barley Bridge with Grant providing the race commentary.
No chips but a lucky few managed a drink at the Duke in the village.

Next week: Elterwater at 6.30 for a 6.45 departure.

SUNDAY 21st September 2008 GMBC

Here is a little update on Sundays ride out around Grizedale, also known as Grizedale Mountain Bike Challenge, it's not a race, but it's a challenge. A few RADs riders had entered, namely Chris, Grant, Jamie and young Harry, now these 4 could have made up a team and gone in for the prize money, except the first two were doing it for personal achievement...and in actual fact Harry and Jamie had their own sponsors, rumour was it if RADs got a sponsor it was going to be by a lighting company...! But the course closed at 4pm so we had to get back. I include Harry due to the fact that he has been trained by RADs, not sure what his current trainer would say,eh Trevor??? anyway he came second in the under 18 class so well done, just 1 min 56 secs ahead of Jamie (over 40 class!), now these two were a few minutes ahead of Grant and CT. In summary there were 519 starters and at least 144 people behind me!!!
For some photos try this http://www.mountain-bike-cumbria.co.uk/articles.php?id=gmbc2008 scroll down to the bottom for the muddy photo. Or www.GMBC.co.uk for the results.
Watch out for more events, you never know we may even get a team entered...!

18th September 2008 -Gilpin bridge

This is basically a quick ride around the scar, before a group meal at the Gilpin Bridge Inn. Ian was waiting with a beer, Jim turned up on his road bike and he wasn't going to ride off-road, Phil rode up on his MTB and he was. Grant, Ian, John, Chris M & T, Jamie, Neil, George and finally Charlie all made it out for the end of summer ride. Usual circuit, including the muddy climb (not so muddy) and the downhills. All finished and back for a meal at 8pm, Paul wasn't there and no one went for the mixed grille! Although Charlie went for posh fish & chips, all good scoff.
The winter ride list is still in post-production, but the next ride will be Staveley, Barley Bridge for 6.30pm.

11th September 2008 - Elterwater for Loughrigg

6 turned up at Elterwater, on time (parking near Britannia Inn), Grant, Chris, Ian, John, Neil, Chris M, we were all ready to go, so some did start off early, but as we were making some last minute fine tuning adjustments to Grants bike, i.e. fitting some brake pads! Jamie turned up, just in time. Basically it's up the hill to the youth hostel, down the Loughrigg terrace watch out for the dog walkers, enjoy the descent and look out for the right hand turn off for the caves, Grant missed it and carried on along the lake, we all met up at the gate. Climb the little track and head down the lane, past the car park and onto the under Loughrigg road, here Chris M decided to try the jumpy berm into the car park, but.... it was a muddy hole and he came a cropper, all OK in the end, more padding next time! Ride along the road, join the others and start UP the lane which leads onto the track up and over the hill, just over the top we met up with a larger MTB group going the other way, it's not often we bump into larger groups. At the bottom ride round the tarn and onto the road, lights on, ride past the youth hostel and down the bridleway across the common, enjoy the little wooden bridge and technical section, then back to the pub for a glass of refreshment. Next ride is Gilpin and a meal.

4th September 2008 - Barbon

5 turned out after a damp day (Jamie, Neil, John, Grant and CT), but with some blue sky showing through the clouds. The usual route went something like this; set off up the lane passing the church on the left, follow the lane heading over the cattle grid, turn right and take the steady road down to the trees, a few hundred yards into the trees take a deep breath for the first off road hill test...get to the top after a little walk to stretch the legs! catch your breath, through the gate head along the bridleway, watch those rocks and come out onto the lane, get ready for the hill climb, it's just a bit of tarmac, Grant led the way as if on a mission, we all followed, at the turn off we seemed to carry on, more UP but steady away. We had a rest at the top gate but it was starting to rain (only a shower). Head off to the gate and a bit of mud plugging on the down hill, through the clay, I managed to do an endo in some mud but stayed upright there were a few laughs from behind! Back onto tarmac for a brief section, rolling down the hill, turn left and enjoy the rocky, 'which way now' route down to the road, watch out for the wet rocks especially at the 'S' bend, I fell down the rocky corner section, Oooouch! Now just a river crossing, but with quite a bit of water, even Jamies 29er was up past the bottom bracket so we took the bridge, race down through the trees, a little dark and sketchy in the wet conditions and back down the Barbon hill climb to get to the cars just after 8.30pm! time for chips and a beer, how civilised. Next ride is Elterwater, the week after is the Gilpin short ride followed by end of summer meal, watch out for the winter ride list coming sooon.

28th August 2008 - Ings to Kentmere

8 turned up for this end of August ride, many folk had lights...rumours were flying about of a Garburn route, but people looked nervous and Paul wasn't there; anyway we headed up the hill opposite the Ings car park lay by and rode up to meet the top bridleway, turn left and through the puddles, take the right hand gate and onwards through the large puddles, head on up to the top river crossing, all OK. Next gate, up and over onto Kentmere Hall, Ian had a front tyre puncture half way down! otherwise all safe. Down the lane and up Green Quarter, a steady climb, not too muddy, yet, at the top gate we stopped for some of Neils date cake, very good! Neil had a sticky rear freewheel and so he and Jamie went down the easy route, while the rest went round via the tumble down stone ruin and met at the gate, Neil then headed down to Staveley the easy way and the rest headed for HP descent, now the clock was ticking and it was getting into twilight, about 9pm, HP was OK even without lights. At the road James K' went on down the road back home, taking his Ay-up LED lights with him, so we could not compare them as a test! Any way the rest forged on, John did not have lights and was not sure about the last bridleway along the hedgerows where it would be dark, so he kept the pace up at the front, we made it through the water pools in the tyre tracks, past the farm and the brambles, through the last iron gate and into the dark alley-way of testing rocks. At this point you really did need lights, it was rocky as usual and we all made it down, John was OK, but Ian had a flesh wound from a bramble! Back to the pub for some real ale, Watermills own brew was tested and enjoyed. Next ride is Barbon.

21st August 2008 - Tebay for Borrowdale

Although not a favoured ride, 8 folks (Neil, Chris T&M, Jamie, George, Paul, John & Ian) turned out just to check; we head north west up Borrowdale valley, stopping along the way to fix Pauls puncture, steady away, at the end we meet the A6 turn left for 200 yds and take a track left down the fells and onto a tarmac lane, on the way we met a Bull, luckily he had some cows with him, but we took no chances and sent John first....then we came along some horses and a foul, so Paul should have gone first. Once safely through the wild-life we headed along the lane until we got to the road up to the mast, this is roughly a 2 mile climb, but it's not toooo bad, if you don't think about it. NICE views from the top, but no time a the light was going (although Ian and Neil had lights, it must be getting to winter!!) getting down is all about choosing the best route, avoiding the mud holes and picking a line, easier said than done, but we all got down and were soon back to the cars. No local pub, so we chatted for a bit then headed home. Next ride is Ings.

14th August 2008 - Hawkshead for the North Face Trail

I think it was 7 or 8 who met up in Hawkshead car park, it was not too damp and so the North Face trail it was, head up the bridleway out of the village and meet up with the trail, this route means we start with the downhill to the visitors centre. A great start, although we had a puncture on the way down and so Ian negotiated to borrow one of Charlies 'only 5 patch inners' to help him along (as he did not have a spare inner tube to fit his wheel), while waiting CT also had a slow puncture but blew his up just to get down to the centre. Along the way Ian's chain was damaged (due to a mis-aligned rear derailleur) and needed joining with a quick link, again he negotiated with Charlie for a loan on a gold set, this evening was becoming quite expensive for Ian! At the centre, Chris changed his inner tube while Ian decided to head home as his chain would not take a whole ride. The rest of us headed up the climb from the visitors centre, then continued with the usual north face ride, although we had to keep going 'cause it was getting dark and Ian was the one who had lights. No real dramas, just John and Neil getting slightly confused on the 'back 9' as the leaders raced home in good light. The real test was the last tricky descent through the trees into Hawkshead, which was basically ridden by braile! A few of us headed for the pub, them home. Next ride is Tebay.

7th August 2008 - Ullswater shore & Boredale Hause

It was a misty wet (it only rained for the first 10 minutes) evening where 6 riders met up in Hartsop village car park, 2 Chris's, Jamie, Ian, George & Paul all ready for the exploration, we figured we would do the clockwise route, utilising the small road section first, just in case the return section was tackled later on after sunset? We headed off north along the bridleway crossing the first ford with much water, then at the junction with the climb we turned left and met up with the main A592 at Bridgend head along to the YHA and turn right just after, (there is a link path from Hartsop but it is a footpath, pity) then pick up the bridleway and cycle past the camp site, then go past Silver Crag and along the shore of Ullswater. Follow the shore path around, enjoying the rocky steps and tests, it was a little damp and tricky and the midges were out (they heard Grant was coming out but as he took a rain check, Jamie took the brunt). Once at Sandwick take the valley lane up Boredale, along the beck to Boredale Head, here take the bridleway and start climbing, it is steady but being damp there were some falls. Chris M & Jamie did well heading for the top, the last section is a carry over wet rocks, what fun! Once at the top the downhill was to steep, brakes were required just to control the descent, but we all survived. Onwards and back to the cars and still in daylight at around 9.30pm. CT was camping near Ullswater, but still got a hot bath! Next ride in Grizedale park in Hawkshead.

31st July 2008 - Sedbergh for Dent

5 riders met up at the free Sedbergh car park after a few phone calls asking "are you going out tonight?" so we did, Chris M, George, Paul, Ian and CT. It was a damp start but it dried up later on, we headed out on the usual route, south east (part of the Dales Way) this goes via Millthrop, through some woods, down past a farm and crosses the road to the ford. The cows were just going to cross the lane so we were lucky to miss them (last year we met cows further down the road). At the ford we used the bridge, last year Chris M attempted the ford, but it is very long and tricky. Once on the other side it's a gentle ride along the lane to Gawthrop, then a right hand turn to head up Barbondale Road, here they had just resurfaced the lane with new loose chippings just to add to the hill climb. CT headed off in middle ring (just to see if it possible!) in actual fact middle ring is easier then the small ring on a road bike (with double chainset) and the climb was not too bad, so CT had time to pause at the junction with Green Lane. Once we had re-grouped Ian lead the way for the next km or so until we hit the first bridleway down to Dent. This is basically a 1km downhill; but because of the rain earlier the pebbles were like marbles and even the full susser bikes were taking it easy, but we all made it down safely. Now we usually stop at the Sun Inn for a beer and chips, but due to the damp conditions we choose to continue back down the road and repeat the first section but in reverse, Ian lead the way along the road, with CM & CT following in his wake, the Idol boys were chatting at the back! On the bridleway back over to Millthrop there is a choice after the gate, if you go left down a wide track you can enjoy a large bermed corner! Then back to the cars and a drink in a local pub, no chips as too late, but Sedbergh now has a curry house! Next ride is Ullswater, park through Hartsop village for 6.15pm.

24th July 2008 - Askham for High Street

7 turned out for a warm evening, Grant, John, Chris, Charlie, Jamie, Neil and Paul, the swimming pool was open and in use, it was very tempting. The route is basically a big climb followed by a downhill (still with climbing!!) and it goes something like this; out of the village heading south, through Helton and carry on until a fork in the road, go right, onto an unfenced road, look for a right turn near some buildings at Rough Hill Tarn. The bridleway starts climbing and heading in a south west direction. Follow this all the way up to Loadpot Hill, it's quite a climb Jamie lead the way, C&C following waiting for a chance to overtake!!! but no, we needed a pause and so walked a bit, back on bikes near the top the track diverges and some wanted to go up and others to take a track on the left (the actual bridleway as it happens) and so the group got split up for the final assent, Charlie and Jamie on the bridleway, C,G & N half way along before teeing off and climbing straight up and P&J going the steady way up. Any how we all made it in the end and had snack time by the trig point. From this point down it's High Street, although you can divert to the west and check out the view point at Arthur's Pike, we stayed on High St, and headed down to the Cockpit before carrying on down to Askham, with a little downhill racing, at one point seeing who could brake the latest, Grant left it a little too late, especially as Charlie did not have the gate open, and guess what, Grant crashed into the gate with his new fork/wheel set up!!! So we all made it back in one piece and had time for a little drink in the pub afterwards. Next ride Sedbergh for Dent.

17th July 2008 - Elterwater

A slight drizzle was in the breeze, but 4 hardy souls turned out, Grant, Neil, Jamie & Chris. We set out up past the quarry and onto the testing route (i.e. a walk, but it would make a tricky downhill later maybe) up through Sawrey's Wood, heading past Dale End to Little Langdale, at the road we decided to go right and climb up and over to High Tilberthwaite, this is a good testing but do-able climb, with a reward of a downhill, just near the top J & C had a little race thing going on, but as soon as the route started downhill C eased off to the inevitable faster downhill 29er! Just at the farm turn left and tee off towards the play-ground area, here we went right to Hodge Close, then uphill to Oxen Fell to take the downhill in the NT Tongue Intake Plantation, still very good, but now there is an optional jump, you just need to hit it at the right speed, maybe someday! At the bottom we turned left and climbed up and out towards Stang End, down to the ford (very deep) back up the lane to Dale End to take the testing descent back to the quarry, it's quite a test! All back safely, Elterwater is great but tooooo much choice! According to Neils bike computer the riding time was 1 hr 39 mins and we travelled 10.7 miles. Next ride is from Askham up to High St.

10th July 2008 - Keswick for Whinlatter ride

The weather looked good in south lakeland, the few folk who were not on holiday looked keen for Keswick, even young Harry (now not so young!) planned to come, in the end a few folk must have looked at the forecast, George turned up and gave a lift to CT, Jamie made it up (but without Harry, something about mechanical problem), so it looked like 3, but Jamie had arranged a secret weapon, that being Max a local guide and what's more Max bought along a riding partner in the shape of Emily (soon to be Trans-Alp-ing check out http://www.bike-transalp.de/englisch/ that's 600km in 8 days, just don't tell Emily how big the mountains are!). So we headed out of the car park near the old station, by the swimming pool and headed through town, the idea being to check out the new Whinlatter Forest Park Altura Mountain Bike Trail (ref:http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/infd-79yfhn) and some other local trails. This involved a couple of miles of lanes so good opportunity to warm up, head along the road until Braithwaite then take the lane towards the visitors centre, along the way we headed off and through some tracks and fire-road until we got to the visitors centre. I won't bore you with the route details albeit we rode around the completed north section, including some timber planks (no board-walk, Grant, and totally optional, just a tad slippy, no real bruises!) on up some steep testing singletrack, a bit of fire-road and some impressive views, at least before the rain came. There are some switchbacks, berms, tree roots and the last section is an epic downhill, twisty and jumpy a great end to the official trail. At this point it was fairly raining so we just headed on down using local trails, all well guided by Max, although at one point he mentioned some slippy rock formation, I asked was it rideable? oh yes Max and Emily said, so when we got to said rocky section, Emily stopped, so I though slippy or grippy, but it was fine, Emily was just being cautious in the rain before her Alps trip in 5 days. Thanks to Jamie for the cake supply; we rode back on the lanes and managed to get a hose down before we were back at the cars, a bit too wet to wait for chips so we headed home, well Jamie would have had to stop for chips, just a snack to see him home. Thanks also to Max & Emily for the loacl guiding. PS While in Keswick check out the local bike shop KMB (http://www.keswickbikes.co.uk/acatalog/information.html). Next week it's Elterwater.

3rd July 2008 - Lowick for Satterthwaite

6 riders met up near the Red Lion, Lowick Bridge, Chris M & T, Neil, John, Jamie and Ian. We set off north along the Crake Valley to take the right hand hill up Bletherbarrow Lane, this is a killer warm-up and as it happened one member of the group did not make the hill start. As we were heading along the lower valley lane warming up, someone had a rear type blow out, (no names ..Ian "and it was a brand new tyre") and so he had to walk back to his car because the tyre had split too much to fix, but he does live locally and so he may change his tyre and meet us at the top of the descent (he's done it before) just to avoid the first hill!!! The rest of us continued on, merging at the top with the bridleway and enjoying the muddy puddles before the downhill to High Ickenthwaite, join the lane turn left and head to Force Mills, we ignored the shortcut left bridleway at Force Forge and choose to try out the little testing route to the right at Force Beck, we tried it going up, you need to walk in places and 3 of us tried it going down, 2 dabs. Then we all continued up the road to Satterthwaite where we took the bridleway of Moor Lane, keep going up, at the first gate we were offered flapjack, no just yet, so we made Neil carry it further up the climb! More up hill with rest stops at the fireroads, now we get flapjack (made with dates and coconut, nice!) onwards to the top and cross to High Parksmoor, more puddles, here I noticed that although I got wet feet peddling through the larger puddles, Neil on his full susser did not, something about higher bottom bracket! It was getting darker on top, no rain yet but it looked due at any moment, jackets on and head along, enjoy the view over Coniston and we met up with, guess who, Ian turned up with a new tyre all ready for the downhill. It's a great tester, watch those rocks, I passed Jamie heading back up for more he shouted something like "the rocks are grippy" but did I hear slippy or grippy, mind games? pick a route, ignore everything and just ride, it's great. Re-group and continue along and down a few more rocks and switch-backs to enjoy. Brilliant, back onlong the road in a little shower of rain and into the pub to discuss past and future rides.
Next ride is Keswick.

26th June 2008 - Mid-summer = Washout!

So it wasn't to be, no Ribblehead to Dent and back epic mid-summer ride...gutted, but erring on the side of caution.
One day we'll to the ride and post the route, until then get out and ride! ENJOY.
Next week it's Lowick.

19th June 2008 - Ings for Garburn

'Garburn'...but which way round? whilst I was waiting near the Watermill at Ings, I was thinking clockwise or anti-clockwise or is it into Kentmere or out of Kentmere, who knows...! Anyhow John turned up looking at the clouds wondering what to wear; Neil turned up after thinking the rain in Windermere might mean he stayed home and did some work, but no the lure of a RADs ride got him out; George turned up to make it 4...what no Paul (too painful), no Grant (too damp), no Joel (too busy), no Jamie (probably cycled out to Staveley instead) and no Charlie (out collecting passport stamps).
So 4 it was, I talked everyone into the clockwise route, meaning heading up the lane to Dubbs as a nice warm up, past Dubbs and the first gate was open (with a Volvo parked up), open gates mean no rest as we pause to open them, this became an ongoing theme for the evening. Then we tackled the steady climb up Garburn which makes a ridable challenge, I say rideable 'cause one day I'll do it! Nice views on the way up, we tried to decipher where we rode the Tongue in Troutbeck valley. Once at the top we talked downhills, just watch those rocks. Nice and steady, not too bad, it's a great descent just go easy. How come it only takes 2 minutes to drop down to the first brook, then a ride down looking for Joel's ravine! Re-group at the bottom turn right and head up to 3 rivers, bottom gate was open so straight through, then I got to the first set of double gates and held them open so the boys could keep going, a few choice words muttered under breaths (help or hindrance), anyhow George made sure he got to one of the top gates just to have a rest. Next were the 2 rivers, these were reasonably deep, so no chance of dry feet, keep going and enjoy the descent, past the farm, up the tarmac climb, then left at the top, through some puddles, past the farm and onto the narrow ride back to the lane, the undergrowth was overgrown and heavy with rain hanging over the narrow track, hiding the rocky floor, so it turned into a lotto, always fun! We came out with a few grazes and bramble cuts. Back to the cars, 9.30-ish plenty of daylight and guess who was waiting there, Jamie, just there is say hello (too busy to ride as tinkering with lawnmowers) and hand out a few recipes, maybe we'll bring some cake next week.
Next weeks it's our long mid-summer ride, meet at Ribblehead, on B6255 (at the junction of the B6479) near the Viaduct. We are planning the Craven and Dales way route. Grid ref: 766794 OS outdoor leisure 2 Yorkshire Dales.

12th June 2008 - Walna Scar Road

5 turned up for this ride which was 'chalk & cheese' to last years ride, i.e. last year is was black clouds and VERY windy, so much so, we could only just walk up the Scar, at least this year we could ride. We met off Hummers Lane at the start of the forest, from here follow the track down into the start of the forest then head off though and up and over the Knott until you get onto the track running up beside the River Lickle. Head north up the hill past Natty Bridge and onwards to the Scar via the disused quarry buildings, now the Scar challenge really starts, select a granny gear and start climbing. If you can keep traction then you may have a chance, obviously you need to keep the legs going, I made it 75% up (one dab), Chris M 85% and Jamie went all the way! Well done that man!! Meanwhile Joel and Grant were discussing food on the climb up. Now what goes up must come down, and the climbing is all worth while, 'cause it's over 2 miles of downhill, watch those rocks and enjoy. Oh so quickly back to the road and then a little ride back via Hummer lane. Regroup at the cars and a quick change then head home because the midges were out. Next ride Ings for Garburn.

Saturday 7th June - Sam Houghton Challenge - Kentmere

The Sam Houghton Challenge is a mountain bike event set around Staveley and Kentmere in the Lake District, as it was local a group of us thought it was a worth while event. I thought that I would write it up in memory of Fred Hool (16th February 1948 to 3rd June 2008) a fellow RADs mountain biker and a 'good bloke', who would have been game to give it a go.
The Challenge is run in the memory of Sam Houghton who lost his battle with skin cancer in the summer of 2006. He was a young and exceptional mountain biker who lived in Staveley and regularly enjoyed the fabulous trails of the Kentmere Valley. The Sam Houghton Challenge is a fitting tribute.
We thought it would make a good challenge and sadly following Fred's death it became more poignant and gave more purpose. The blurb says "The course opens up some of the best natural mountain biking in the UK with a 46km long course with 1400m of ascent through Kentmere, Longsleddale and Troutbeck valleys and taking in the infamous Garburn pass". We have ridden these routes many times over the years, but putting them all together was going to be a challenge and hence worthwhile.
4 of us initially put our names forward and formed one 4 man team, then 4 more followed and entered on the day, so we had 2 teams. Now the second team (Paul, George, Joel & Ian) actually got the first start time off at 12.40pm the other time (Jamie, Grant, John & Chris) were off 10 minutes later at 12.50pm, so there was much merriment guessing where we would catch each other up, will it be the first or second gate! Anyhow just time for a last coffee before the off, & George managed to bang his head on a car door before the off and needed a plaster (this was to be the first injury of the day but not the last!).
So off they set at 12.40 with us in hot pursuit 10 Min's later, it was hot & sunny and hard work up the first hill, I blame the coffee and cake for breakfast! We soon split up on the first climb and on the first downhill I punctured and let the others go ahead, while changing the type a young man passed me heading back to the start, he had had 4 punctures and had ran out of repair patches!
I regrouped along the Longsleddale valley with John & Jamie, then it was up the hill at Sadgill and over to Stile End, this involved a little walk up the track. Again we had split up, with Grant getting away from us, once over the top I took it easy on the descent (not wanting to puncture again) and I saw a bunch of riders at the side of the trail, then I recognised then as our teams, apparently Paul had come a cropper and bounced off some rocks! After some time resting at the side of the trail we walked him down to the lane where George went off for the car to take him off for a check up, happily he was OK. The rest of us continued on our way, this now involved climbing UP Garburn, it was hot hard work even when walking up. At one point half way up where Joel paused his riding he put his foot down to rest, only to find no edge to the track and so he tumbled down the enbankment into the bracken and had to be lifted out! It's best to stay on the bike! We made it to the top and started on down, Jamie went ahead I stopped for food and half way down Ian and Joel caught me up we continued down towards Limefitt where Ian came off just at the end, he was cut up but OK, he chose to go back the short route. So Joel, John & I went on to do the complete route, via Troutbeck, Longmire, High Borrans, Mickle Moss, down to Kentmere Hall, Green Quarter (a bit of a climb after 4+ hours) then the finale of HP rocky descent and back to Wilfs for hot food and a rest, overall it took over 5.5 hours, but well worth the challenge in the end. Well done for everybody who took part and supported the event and the charities.

Here are a few pictures:

5th June 2008 - Witherslack ride

Quite a few folk turned up at Gilpin Bridge for the Witherslack ride, Joel, Grant, Ian, Charlie, Chris M, Jamie, John. The route commentary will follow once our correspondant gets on-line... more to follow.

There was some discussion about the upcomming 'Sam Houghton Challenge' ride from Staveley on Saturday 7th June. "The course opens up some of the best natural mountain biking in the UK with a 46km long course with 1400m of ascent through Kentmere, Longsleddale and Troutbeck valleys and taking in the infamous Garburn pass." One RADs team was booked in and a few more riders said they would enter on the day, so it seemed a good turn out.

As some of you will be aware the challenge is in aid of Cancer Research UK and was very close to our hearts following Fred Hools recent death. It was a good challenge and worth every effort in memory of Fred. A separate blog will follow with details from Saturdays Challenge ride.

Thursday 12 June will be the Walna Scar ride, meet at Broughton forrest entrance off hummer lane.

29th May 2008 - Satterthwaite for Grizedale

5 turned out and we decided to head east as we would be doing the Nibthwaite downhill (west) in a few weeks ride from Lowick. Ride through the village and up Breasty Haw, not a bad climb and some testing rocks in places, carry on up and over and enjoy the descent onto the road, sketchy and testy! Ride up the road and tee off left past the Cross and The Common to get to the Fox, here go right and head to Moor Top, as you cross the road watch out for The Bog, muddy mud mud! Take the first section of the North Face from Moor Top, but from the fire road take the right hand junction up the hill, work your way along Grizedale Moor untill you level out at The Park, here we went right and enjoyed the downhill, before Lawson park, go left for a tree rooting test of a climb back up to the fire road, fun in the dry, murder in the wet. Once back on the forest road head for the Rowan Tree Dub, take the bridleway (marked on the right) and head out of the trees for a little while over the old 'tank' tracks (watch the muddy water) before Parkamoor, head left back into the trees and ENJOY the downhill to Seven Wells and then continue down along Moor Lane and back to the cars, what an ending, down, down, down! Many midge bites so no sitting outside for a beer. Next week in a change to the schedule, Gilpin Bridge for an easy ride ahead of the Sam Houghton challenge on Saturday 7th June.

22nd May 2008 - Broughton Mills

I gave Jamie a lift in my car just to make sure I was not alone, but actually 5 turned out, John, Ian, Neil, Jamie & I, as usual there was some route discussion, what with being a democracy and all that! We decided that although last years route was good, if a little wet we would head out in the other direction, so we headed up the road in a east-northern direction, past Hobkin Ground, up Ling End and take a left at the fork, tee of right into the Forest and look for a left fork going uphill, this heads towards Stephenson Ground but via the valley, so head for Natty Bridge, come back down the valley, enjoy and watch out for punctures (only Jamie this time!). Follow the bridleway heading up Long Mire, but take a left after a gate to cross the valley floor, it's tricky in places, then climb up past Jackson Ground, right round Raven's Crag this is great scenery, here we were running out of time (i.e. chips were calling) and the options were too many, we really need a whole day to do this area justice, so another time maybe. We headed down to the road which follows Dunnerdale Beck, a quick blast down hill to the pub. We were in time for Cumberland sausage , chips & a salad, very civilised! We discussed life, how to not ride a 24 hour race (i.e. we would enjoy the camping, BBQ & beers) and who was up for the Sam Houghton Mountain Bike Challenge on Saturday 9th June. Next week it's Satterthwaite for Grisedale.

15th May 2008 - Barley Bridge, Staveley for Longsleddale

7 turned up for a pleasant evenings ride from Barley Bridge, In order of appearance (or should that be earliest to arrive?) - Charlie (now known as 'silent but deadly'), Joel, John, Grant, Chris M, David, and Phil.
There was a split from the off, one group deciding to go over the river and up the road past Scroggs farm, and the others lead by Phil went up and over Elfhowe, we regrouped on Staveley Head Fell before we headed up and out and into the wilds of Birk Rigg and then the right fork past Skeggles Water, and over to Longsleddale.
Grant was in training for something because he made a break for it across the tops, and Charlie crept up and overtook so stealthily that she is now to be know as 'silent but deadly'...
David had a new bouncy full susser as well as a new camelbak which took some time to work out how to open so we took in the evening air and admired the views from the top of the fells above Wad's Howe; once David was fully watered, it was every man (and women) for themselves as we headed down to the valley floor.
From the valley bottom it was getting a little chilly, we were now in the valley of shadowy freshness and the midges were out too. But it was summer now and so we continued in short impractical clothing up the valley to Sadgill where it gets a little technical, the loose ground is steep and rocky which leads up to a gate where it gives way to a track that is even steeper and rockier, from the top it was time to regroup and put on more clothes as it wasn't really summer yet!
From the summit the descent is a rollercoaster of a journey through Stile End and back towards Kentmere, once back on the road it was right and then left onto the bridleway that loops down towards the river and then dumps you back on to the road around Green Quarter. From here it was a blast of a downhill on the road back to the cars... where we came across a lost looking Jamie who had arrived a little late and went out from Ings thinking he would catch us up and finally realised he was on the wrong ride when he got back to Ings and didn't recognise anyone's car!

No chips but we did get a few questions right in the Eagle and Childs pub quiz!

Note to interested parties, 4 of us did this ride in reverse on the sunday after which was a worthy alternative for future reference and goes something like this: barley bridge, past scroggs, staveley head to long houses, road to stile end, up and over to Tom's Howe before the full descent to Longsleddale, over Cocklaw Fell - bit boggy!, over Green Quarter and down HP.

Next ride: 22nd May 2008 - 6.30 Blacksmiths Arms, Broughton Mills, Ian’s route??? Come on Ian, nobody else knows the route!

8th May 2008 - Hawkshead for Claiffe heights

6 Turned out (Charlie, John, Grant, Paul, Jamie and Joel) for another loop from Hawkshead with Claife in our sights once more. The mistakes of the last ride on the 27th March was still fresh in our minds where we took a right turn instead of a left and so we set off in the right direction this time. Charlie took the lead and suggesting that we could take in a loop down to the shore on Windermere if we 'rode with a sense of purpose' (or something to that effect), I think this meant that we should stop chatting and ride.
We all set off towards Colthouse, along Scar House Lane, through Outgate, past the pub and taking the bridleway to the right, locally and affectionately known as snakebite alley, tonight was no exception with 3 punctures already. We stopped to regroup and repair and then headed out past Bletham Tarn and the after hitting the road we headed towards High Wray and then Base Camp.
At Base camp we headed left off the main track and up a technical rocky section of a climb, this took us parallel to the forest track past the scout huts to Nor Moss but this time rather than switching a tight 180 degrees and back up the fire road we continued along until Long Height where we continued to climb (with purpose) and then headed out of the forest for the first proper descent to Moss Eccles Tarn and on to Far Sawrey. From Sawrey we took the track that climbs up behind the pub and heads out towards Belt Ash Coppice, an excellent technical descent follows down to the shoreline of Windermere where 2 more punctures were sustained, the victims were Paul and Jamie who made the total '5', Charlie was currently the only one to escape the pinch flats this evening!
From the shoreline we continued along the rough track to Belle Grange until we reached the pitched bridleway for the walk that leads uphill and back towards Long Height, then Guide Posts for the final climb and then the long descent back to the road with Hawshead in our sights. Jamie puncturing again on this descent and with only his last 29'er tube to get him home he was lucky Hawkshead was twinkling in the distance.

It was 9.45 by the time we got back to the cars, no chips and only a half before bedtime!
Next ride: 15th May 2008 - 6.30 Barley Bridge, Staveley for Longsleddale

1st May 2008 - Lowick common

After checking out the Rads mention in this months mountain biking magazine, Joel, Grant, Jamie, John, Paul and Charlie made up the group departing from the Red Lion at Lowick. We set off to the south west going past the Church and the village hall where the amount of traffic was explained by the polling station signs. A right onto the road skirting Park Wood and followed this until we got onto the open fell at Kiln Bank. The grassy track contours round the hill touching a road briefly at Tottlebank and continuing on round under Blawith Knott. We then crossed another road and had a fun descent down to Low Heathwaite Gate.
A certain amount of discussion followed here as to what was the best way round to do this ride so that we did not do the down hill on the road. So we descended down the road to Yeat House where we turned onto the bridleway that goes past Spunham and then starts a mighty fine climb across Woodland Fell. We then dropped down to Green Moor and through the woods to the road. Up the road, taking the bridleway just before Hawes. We then wondered across the moor heading generally south and missed out Johns' favourite descent – he went over the handlebars on the previous 2 occasions.
We crossed a couple of streams before again heading up Woodland Fell. There is then a fantastic descent down to the road near Appletree Holme. It does not descend all the way, but the there is a test of nerves to see if you keep your speed up round some blind corners in case there is a small rise on the other side– fun! We just had a road section down to Blawith and then a couple of kms along the main road back to the pub. Too late for chips but some well balanced meals of crisps and peanuts to go with our drinks.
Next ride is Hawkshead for Claiffe

24th April 2008 - Troutbeck for Longmire Rd & Wain Lane Jenkin Crag

It had been a wet morning but now was turning into a pleasant evening as 5 rolled out, the 5 were John (who had a new frame and was eager to test it out), George, Charlie (who had travelled all the way from Hong Kong to get to the ride), Joel, and Jamie (who arrived in his new wagon with horse attached)... but where's Grant? All will become clearer later!

It was left past Troutbeck church and through Limefitt caravan park, this was an optional loop but worth the climb to the gate for the descent to the Howe and back to the road. As we regrouped we noticed an additional car parked next to the others... Grant!
He was nowhere to be seen, he couldn't be seen climbing above the caravan park so we waited... and then slightly out of breath he arrived having sprinted up and down, and then there were 6.
From here it was left on Longmire Road and then the bridleway on the right, across the field, over the river and up the hill towards Town End, right onto the road and then left at the post office and up onto Robin Lane, past the houses where the road ends and the track begins. At the top we all regrouped at the bench and admired the view of the lake where it was noted that it was finally visibly after a season of winter night rides.

Jamie said he wasn't keen on the usual descent (straight down from the bench, over the road and down Wain Lane) and so he proceeded to scare us with tales of gnarly descents and tree roots instead; following his technical advice we decided to carry on towards Ambleside, through High Skelghyll and down through Jenkin Crag.
Practicing in Scotland had something to do with being able to ride this finally! and we all made it safely to the bottom of the gnarly rocky section despite the scary (whooping) descents through the woods. Jamie was so impressed I'd used all but 10mm of travel he even gave me some kind of salute, the kind of thing teenager's in baggy shorts do to each other, well, that's what I thought it was!

From Waterhead we picked up the road towards Brockhole and turned opposite the visitors centre to Merewood and Mirk Lane where we pushed up and watched Jamie nail both climbs, just to make us feel better he was helpfully holding the gate open at the top when we all finally arrived.
Once back on the road again we were on the final leg, a quick sprint on the road through Town End to troutbeck and a fast descent that drops down behind the church.

A superb ride, no chips, no drinks, get well soon Chris...

Next ride: 1st May 6.15 Red Lion, Lowick for Lowick common

17th April 2008 - Britannia Inn, Elterwater

It was a chilly evening, and apparently already raining in Penrith which nearly halted some of the riders. 5 turned up (Grant, George, Joel, Phil and Paul) for a classic summer/winter ride and due to the weather nobody was quiet sure which this was!
It was left out of the NT car park and then the first right up towards the quarry, then right along the river and then up into the quarry passing the houses on the left. Once through the quarry it was a climb (and push) through Sawreys wood and then down towards Little Langdale.
At the road it was decided to take a right turn here and take a route that Phil hadn't tried before, this took us out past Little Langdale Tarn and to Fell Foot Bridge where we crossed and began up the technical rocky climb, this lead us up to the junction that leads down to Low Hall Garth climbing huts where we all stopped to regroup as another group of speedy (they must have been very young!) riders sped past.
We continued to climb upwards which took us away from the descent to the huts before the rocky 'whooping' descent around Low Tilberthwaite and then on to a brief loop of the playground that led on to a clatter up through the slates at Hodge Close.
A unanimous decision was then taken based on the number of the best downhills which could be fitted in before the light began to fade, this led us on to High Oxen Fell before headed to the NT woods at Tongue Intake plantation although I can't now find the route on the map!
At the bottom of the fast descent, remembering to brake before the wall! it was right over the stream and up to the road for the final road loop back to the Britannia for expensive chips and orange juice...

A surprisingly dry but cold evening despite the threat of rain.

Next week: 24th April - 6.15 meet at Troutbeck Church for Longmire Road & Wain Lane

10th April 2008 - Crook Road for Winster

We parked at Crook village hall. Having enquired of the next door neighbour (out in his garden) whether the hall was going to be in use, he seemed to think not but advised us that we could double check by reading the notices pinned to the door. WI the previous evening, 'mothers and toddlers' on Friday morning but nothing on this Thursday evening.
John, Chris M, George and Charlie were the only ones who turned up on what turned out to be a glorious summer evening. Chris M recommended a route so we set off towards Crook taking the blind right hand turn towards the ‘Royal Crook Golf Club’ and then took the small road that turns off right over a cattle grid towards Crook Hall. Here it turns to bridleway with a mix of grassy tracks and skirting High House and Birk Moss. At Hart Howe it does a fantastic descent down to the road.
A right turn heading north up the small road and then left onto the bridleway past Crook Foot. As we reached the base of what is our usual descent to Thornyfields, George exclaimed that he knew where he was. Chris held the gate open and challenged us to ride to the top. This was accepted and accomplished by all although it was a level muddy patch that was nearly our downfall. Less success on the next rocky climb up Crag Lane and at this point Chris mentioned that this ride was a popular one with his family and usually took about three and a half hours. We were not yet at the turn-round point with a little less than an hour left of daylight.
The descent down to the ford and then the big climb up on the road up to Great Tower. We were shocked to find that the nice pile of road chippings that we had previously played on has been removed. So we had to set off across Birkett Houses Allotment, the pace had a certain sense of purpose but not so much that we could not enjoy the clear views across the high fells which were superb. Only Crinkle Crags having a few clouds shrouding their summits. Onwards and upwards over the green lane which as ever had puddles on the summit (doesn’t water run down hill – seemingly not). We popped out and headed up the lane to the Crook road near the Wild Boar Hotel and with the fading light, rear lights were switched on and it was decided that we should put Charlie on the front with the only front light and a pace line was formed to head back to the cars.Who knows what was happening but most of the population of Crook had parked in our car park. Fortunately we could all get out. We had just got to the Kendal bypass as the rain arrived so we got away with it! Next ride Britannia Inn, Elterwater.

3rd April 2008 - Gilpin for Whitbarrow and meal

8 turned out for the beginning of the summer rides (Chris M, Jamie, Joel, Charlie, Grant, Paul, John, Phil). It should have been a 6.15 start but since we hadn't seen Phil or John for the last 6 months the conversations continued until we finally left the Gilpin Bridge car park at 7ish...
Once off, it was the usual route over the foot/cycle-bridge towards Ravens Lodge, up the bridleway that runs along the side of Whitbarrow and then at the bottom of the first descent taking the sharp right and continue on to Beck Head where the road ends and the trail continues towards Witherslack Hall. Taking a right on to the road we climbed up the hill on the road towards and then the left turn at the top of the hill, then the left fork towards Witherslack Hall farm, through the gate and up onto the tops of Yewbarrow.
It was a pleasant evening unlike the previous winter ride so we stopped briefly at the entrance to the woods at the top of Yewbarrow for everyone to catch up. On the route through the woods we all joked about Jamie's tree, that he had to saw on the previous ride, it was still there and it was now used as a small technical obsticle to jump over.
On the descent back down to the road, it was Jamie again who had his saw out! This time another large tree was crossing the path at an oblique angle, so we watched as he began the forestry work. 5 minutes later another piece of north shore was taking shape!
Back on the road it was a fast paced race back to towards the pub, on the corner of the road we received local teenage abuse, first directed at Jamie - 'get a specialized' to which Jamie (at speed) was shouting a response about the patent of the turner and how specialized had based the designs on the Turner model, to be honest I don't think they could hear him based on the speed he was going! Posh abuse continued until it stopped with Paul and Chris M who were at least riding Specialized. Then it was up the hill towards Buckhouse Wood and down the final descent to the pub for a meal.

Chris T and Jim turned up for the evening meal which was followed by much debate about the summer season rides and the first ride was finally settled after 4 large puddings arrived...

Next week

Crook Road parking near the village hall 6.15(ish)

27th March 2008 - Hawkshead

5 riders (Chris M, Joel, Jamie, Grant and Paul) turned out for the final nightride before the summer season starts again, it was a cold one and Grant was refusing to get out of his toasty warm car as it was only 6 degrees outside and getting colder.
Without the tour master (get well soon Chris) a discussion took place as to where we going and at 18.55 it was decided that we should head towards Claiffe. We all set off towards Colthouse, along Scar House Lane and then Loanthwaite Lane, we usually take a left towards Outgate but someone started right and we all followed (get well soon Chris). We climbed on the road until we hit the junction where we realised that we had missed the off road route to Snake Bite Alley, we decided then to continue towards High Wray and on towards Base camp.

At Base camp Chris M suggested a different approach and headed left off the main track and up a technical rocky section of a climb, this took us parallel to the forest track past the scout huts to Nor Moss before switching a tight 180 degrees before Scab Moss that took us back onto the fire road. At Guide Posts we took the left at the crossroads for the technical loop and then we headed up to Hollin Band plantation for the sweeping downhill towards Moss Eccles Tarn. At the gate another dilema became apparent, we wouldn't have enough battery to get us down to the shore and back and nobody was keen on the return leg on the road... the alternative was then decided to reverse our path to Guide Posts (get well soon Chris) and so we turned round and climbed back up! (...get well soon Chris) Jamie pointed out that this was on an MBR beginners route, but by the time we had climbed back to the top it was suggested that it would put off most beginners for good! The forestry Caterpillars had also been through recently which didn't help the situation and Grant was also getting concerned as he's not from these shores and was alarmed that caterpillars could create such damage!

From Guide Posts it was a final descent over Rough Hows down via Colthouse to Hawkshead.
No chips, Everyone was too cold and it was a least an hours drive home.

New feature: telemetry and google map of the route>>>

Cartographic Length = 14.597 km
Total Time: 02:16:24
Average Speed: 6.4 km/h, Maximum Speed: 31.5 km/h

NEXT RIDE - 3rd April

Gilpin Bridge for the beginning of the summer ride and a meal to celebrate the end of the winter rides. Remember the early 6.15 start!!

March 2008 - Scottish weekend

We should have had some rides in Staveley and Elterwater, but these rides have ended up either side of a weekend break in Scotland and so many of the winter riders took a rain check, hopefully Joel has some news on the last ride, watch this space.
Regarding the Scottish trip, we had 8 riders in all spanning the weekend, some rode part of Ae on Friday whilst 3 others rode Mabie; 6 rode Kiroughtree on Saturday, 8 rode Dalbeattie on Sunday, 2 also gave the Kona Dark Side a try later Sunday evening (it looks evil boardwalk, photos to follow). then on Sunday 4 rode out to try Drumlanrig country park, in the end we were also guided for part of the way by Rik the local bike shop owner and trail builder, so it was quite a route, natural riding through the woods, very picturesque. All in all a grand weekend. Pictures and more ride information to follow, I still think Dalbeattie takes some beating, especially now there are some extended single track sections and the Slab is always fun!

6th March 2008 - Barbon

4 of us met up in Barbon, most of the others had cried off with colds or were holidaying..! Grant had a new bike, well a new feel for him anyway, serviced brakes, gears and so he did not fall off on any uphill sections! We did the usual route, very briefly up the first lane, turn right after the cattle grid and ride head long into a force four wind, i.e. pedalling downhill, then up the first bridleway, it's always hard, dabbed twice rubbish, did I say Grants gears were not normal and not 'rapid rise' so that excuse came out..! Nice and muddy along the level bridleway onto the road section, enjoy the uphill and think of the next mile long track, at least the wind was not against us. The next gate always feels like the top, but it's only half way, on over the hill and to the next gate before the muddy puddles section. Here Joel bravely taking the largest puddle on his all-mountain machine took a tumble and virtually went swimming, bashing his leg in the process but he kept going. Down to the next lane, blast downhill and think of the final rocky section, we advised Jamie to get a brew on while he was waiting for us at the bottom, but we all made it eventually. No river crossing but a great blast down to Barbon, in the pub for chips and a beer. Next ride is Staveley, not sure who will go as many folk are preparing for the Scottish weekend. Enjoy.

28th February 2008 - Troutbeck

8 turned out for a grand ride out, parking at the lay-by near church bridge, we set off north to Limefitt Park and up the bridleway to take the last section of Garburn track downhill, where JP had the first puncture. At the bottom turn left along the road, watch out for a sticking out piece of metal railing, then we turned right to take the bridleway to Town End, what fun you can have seeing how far you can freewheel (i.e. no braking) before you have to brake, the drop down into the field is deceptive and really fast, keep cool and enjoy! Head along the road to take Robin Lane get to the view point and rest on the seat, after a jelly-baby or two we set off down the rocky descent, Grant evidently enjoying himself at the cost of his derailleur hanger, so he had to head back for an early bath. We continued down Wain Lane, it's a rocky track, so keep your eyes open, I passed JP at one point, but then nearly went over the handlebars! Now at the main road, turn right for a few hundred yards to take Mirk Lane, this is a tester and a half, some say it's all in the head, but there are some uphill bits as well! Now back up to the lane and head back to the cars, one last downhill bridleway where Jamie punctured, so he wheeled back to the car. We stopped off at the Watermill for a jar and a chat. Next ride is Barbon.

21st February 2008 - Lowick & west

Luckily GT and JB turned up, as the others were not sure of the route and the local guide was probably enjoying his log burning stove. We set off south-west from the Red Lion at Lowick Bridge, past Lowick Hall take the first right hand lane, follow this and ignore the first left (we nearly did not!) take a bridleway, Long Lane, up to a farm, Kiln Bank, turn right thru' a gate and on past the barns to a second gate. This area is Subberthwaite Bank, where we went past 2 other MTBers going in the opposite direction, it was muddy, veer right and follow the track up towards the lane, where JP famously caught us up one Christmas with fairly lights on his helmet! Continue up the lane past Tottlebank and follow the bridleway west, cross over the lane (we did not stop as it was windy) and keep going to enjoy the downhill, turn right at the road near Fell Gate, blast down the road for a mile and look for a bridleway on the right hand side. Now enjoy the climb up, it's a tester, or just walk some and chat! This gets you to Woodland Fell, there are some alternatives, but we shall wait for summer evenings when we can see where we are going! head east to Cockenskell and follow the lanes back to Blawith, back on the main road and right turn back to the pub. Here we enjoyed beer thanks to JB's credit card and Grant did a Rodney (you know a straw and umbrella in his drink!!!). Next ride is Troutbeck.

TUESDAY 12th February 2007 - Gilpin for Whitbarrow

In a change to tradition there was to be a Tuesday ride, as some folk wanted to keep some Valentine's sweet.
The story unfolds...Gilpin Bridge (alternatively now known as the Death Ride (only by CSC & JP -Ed)) It was a wild and windy night... Oh no that was two weeks ago, this evening it was a calm and still night with a slither of a moon. Joel and Grant were there promptly at the 18.26 nominated time, Charlie had left Windsor at 1.45 that afternoon and made it by just after 18.30 and Jamie learnt that last time riding from Kendal had meant that he missed us so drove this time and still nearly missed us.
Setting off we realised that it was going to be a chilly evening, it was the usual route over the foot/cycle-bridge towards Ravens Lodge, up the bridleway that runs along the side of Whitbarrow and then at the bottom of the first descent taking the sharp right and continue on to Beck Head where the road ends and the trail continues towards Witherslack Hall. At this point Jamie persuaded us that his last Biketreks ride knew that the left hand track on through the gate was in fact a footpath and the small track to the right was the bridleway. An ambiguously positioned “no cycling or horses” sign between the two options we decided must refer to the main track as horses had certainly been along the small path to the right. A great little single track with some rocky sections which ends up in the fields that climb up to Witherslack Hall entrance. Strange how the gate at this end says clearly “No Cycles”.
We took the left fork towards Witherslack Hall farm and then through the gate and up onto the tops of Yewbarrow. The open ground was much easier going with no wind. We stopped briefly at the entrance to the woods at the top of Yewbarrow while Jamie tried to fix Grants gears and we were off again. We knew that there was a tree ahead that had been blown across the path in the storm. We checked if Jamie had his fold up saw and then watched him chop it out of the way to create a nice little ‘hop’. We headed back on the road to the last climb and Grant took a big off on one of the corners – falling on the same hand that he had damaged last weekend on the golf course. A round of chips back at the pub ended an out of routine Tuesday evening ride. The down side of going out on a Tuesday is that there are still 3 more work days. words by charlie. Next week it's the Red Lion at Lowick (East or West route...?)

7th February 2008 - Satterthwaite for Grizedale

5 met up at the lay-by at the end of Moor Lane bridleway south of Satterthwaite village, we had a little debate on route as Ian had not been out much, we headed north up the road to take the Bogle Crag route into the forrest. At the top of the hill Ian decided to tee off right and ease back down while the rest of us headed left, after negociating the toads that seemed to be taking up the tracks we eventually came out at the Fox, here we went left and met up with the bridleway down to the visitor centre, this is a rocky route, full sussers preferred! We continued up into Grizedale via the start of the NF route, with Grant taking care when walking the planks, at the top we followed the NF for a ways and then at a cross-roads we went straight on and worked our way towards the west side of Satterthwaite to meet up with the top of Moor lane to enjoy the rocky descent to the cars. It was dark but mild night very enjoyable. Next ride is up for debate as a few folk say they can't make February 14!!! and our making alternative arrangements for a Tuesday (see emails) Next planned ride is 21 Feb' at Lowick.

31st January 2008 - Lyth (death) Valley

Gilpin Bridge (alternatively now known as the Death Ride) words by JP.
It was a wild and windy night... and although JP had attempted to email and rally the troops only the TG was man enough to brave the elements (apologies to TG who isn't a man, and also to Jamie who did turn up 5 minutes after we had left the car park but seems to have had a better time riding with the Biketreks group).
Setting off into a strong head wind set the scene for the rest of the ride, it was the usual route over the foot/cycle-bridge towards Ravens Lodge, up the bridleway that runs along the side of Whitbarrow and then at the bottom of the first descent taking the sharp right and continue on to Beck Head where the road ends and the trail continues towards Witherslack Hall. It was at this stage that the wind was whistling across the lower fields and knocking the bikes off course, the wind then died down as we approached the road as we climbed up to Witherslack Hall. The TG was waiting/sheltering at the top of the climb as the wind was beginning to get stronger the higher we went.
We took the left fork towards Witherslack Hall farm and then through the gate and up onto the tops of Yewbarrow. Once again we struggled across the open ground and we were being blown by the wind in all directions but the chosen route. We stopped briefly at the entrance to the woods at the top of Yewbarrow but felt that this was not the best place to be in storm force 9 winds, and even though I had brought enough flapjack for 6 we only had time to consume half a piece between us. A quick call to TG HQ to confirm our last location (in case help was required???) and we were off again.
There was no time to consider the descent, with the wind howling as loud as an approaching freight train and having had to carry bikes over a felled tree we decided not to hang around. It was a relief to be back on the road and now with the wind behind us we sped along back to the bottom of the first descent. As we climbed up the hill towards Buckhouse Wood, TG suddenly appeared to sprint ahead and disappeared at the top of the climb. It soon became apparent why as the wind was whipping around us and spiralling debris was circling the track, the deep roaring sound of the wind was gusting and propelling us up the hill, we momentarily stopped before the final descent to once again suggest that we really shouldn't be here!
This turned out to be a short ride in storm force 9 winds that took 1 1/2 hours before we were back in the pub. This was not so much powered by cake and chips, but by the wind, fear and flapjack.
Next week: Satterthwaite

24th January 2008 - Elterwater

7 turned out (after having a rest last week!) Joel even had a shiny new white P7. The route went something like this head out of the car park, as I was checking my gears I turned right, everyone followed, but we were going left...! so left up the first lane to the quarry, get that P7 muddy! up the tree climb and down to the gate, head for the ford, but NO turn right at the road and tee off left for the climb up the knotts and onto High Tilberthwaite, a great downhill rocky tester! Have a little fun at the playground then off for Hodge Close, there were some washed out sections so watch out. Then onto the NT descent, no a bad way to finish then back to the cars. No beers at the Britannia 'cause it was closed?? so we went back to Ings so a beer. Next ride Gilpin Bridge.

17th January 2008 - Oxen Park

It had been raining so that seemed the excuse for everyone to take a rain check, anyway George and CT turned out for a nice ride out. Heading west along the lane to take the sharp right hand turn UP the climb, past the farm and onto the bridleway, remember to keep left and head down Lord Ling, it was a bit wet, enjoy the descent into High Ickenthwaite. head left along corker lane towards Force Forge, we carried on and went left at Force Mills so that we could come down the little cut off corner bridleway and then we came back up the lane and took a another cut off corner bridleway past force beck to get to the bridleway to Thwaite Moss, quite a rocky descent. Right at the road and back via Yew Beck and the usual route. Part of this route maybe worth a go the other way round, one for the future. Next ride is Elterwater.

10th January 2008 - Hawkshead for Grisedale

5 intrepid MTBer's met up in Hawkshead on a flood-prone Thursday, as the weather was damp we entered a democratic debate on route choice, some saying Claiffe maybe drier, others opting for the North Face route, the final vote seemed to be taking some time and as Chris M had had a busy day driving around Cumbria he wanted to be off round the North Face trail and so he was, leaving the remainder to make up their minds....! So the NF trail it was, allowing CM a head start the remaining 4 headed up the first climb, joy of joys an up hill warm up, again. We met Chris at the first gate taking a breather, then we continued onto the NF route. This route from Hawkshead, although beginning on a hill means we get to enjoy the downhill single track to the visitors centre, (watch out for the building works and de-tours) where as usual it was raining, so we continued on up the fire-road, during the steady climb and whilst chatting CT clashed handlebars with CSC and fell off, this was not to be his first off of the day. We continued up the steady climb and regrouped at the top to comment of the wet boardwalks! Also Chris M's lights were blinking off and after some investigation, it seemed that the Li-ion battery system has as safety cut out which was coming into play, so Chris had no lights, he decided to continue on the fire-roads with his back up "Black Diamond" LED head torch (very useful). The other 4 carried on and enjoyed the NF trail, pretty good considering the wet weather we had had. We kept meeting up with Chris M on the fire-road until he went past us and carried on back to the car. We reached the final single track and headed down the trail, CT was leading JB for a change, until he came to a damp board-walk section under some trees, here it was like ice, but we did not notice until CT had gone down a pearler, i.e. the front wheel slipped away and CT fell off the board-walk, luckily onto some soft-ish fern. No real harm done, but we noticed that CSC and Joel had not caught us up and so we headed back up the trail, we got all the way back to the fire-road and no sign, so we decided to continue back down the trail, this time slowly over the board-walk, all OK and we met up with the 2 others on the trail, apparently CSC Li-ion had also stopped and so they took the fire road option, so we were now heading down the last descent to Hawkshead by sharing lights, while cycling back to the cars through the village we checked the time and noticed that it was ten to ten, so that's why the lights were going out! Now just time for a drink in the Sun Inn and a warm by the fire. Next ride is at Oxen Park.

3rd January 2008 - Ings

4 of us turned up for a cold and snowy/icy ride around Mickle Moss, it was a relatively short ride, just to ease us into the new year. We set off up the lane and as soon as we started to go up hill we heard a cry from Chris M, mechanical trouble? well a puncture already, so a quick change and we continued up past St. Ann's farm and through the icy puddles, not frozen enough to ride on and so we got wet feet, keep left at the first junction and head on up to the right hand gate. Head through and keep going, the wet patch (i.e. large puddles) were semi-frozen and there is no real way round, but we tried and got more wet feet, George just ploughed on, he must have had those dry sock things for Christmas! We kept going up to the first river crossing and decided to turn right and head back, something to do with the start of a snow blizzard. Down the 2 rivers and you guessed it more wet stuff, down the rocky route, past Jamie's corner and along the bottom lane, then up the old technical section (now easy) and up the tarmac climb, turn left at the top and the 3 specialized boys were being lead by Mr. hardtail, through more puddles, past the farm and the final technical blast down the narrow rocky bridleway back to the lane, all in just over an hour. So plenty of time for a beer and a discussion on LED torches, mines brighter than yours and all that; then guess who turned up for a drink, JP graced our presence, looking for stimulation, only he had to do with us lot, next time he may even bring a bike! Hawkshead for the 10th January.