9th Decemeber 2010 - Troutbeck

Thursday evenings ride started from Troutbeck, the snow from the weekend was reduced after a much milder day, it almost felt warm compared to the previous few days. Charlie was kitted out with studded ice tyres front and rear, ready and looking for ice to test them on. The other six of us – Jamie, Grant, Paul, Joel, Chris M and Neil were maybe not looking for ice, but hoping to stay upright in the winter conditions. Due to the remaining snow and ice on the roads, a revised route was agreed. Briefly on the road and then through Limefitt Park, trying to ride the first section of bridleway proved that with the snow conditions it was going to be a challenge, we turned right at the junction on the bridleway above Limefitt. On this section, riding more than a few yards proved virtually impossible, rear wheel traction was very difficult, but the difficulties were compounded with the front tyre skidding and sliding, and consequently not being able to keep on a chosen line. At the gate there was some talk of leaving the bikes at the cars when we passed them later, as it might be quicker on foot.

The descent down the snow covered bridleway to the Kirkstone road, was testing, ride able, and proved challenging fun. The simplified route took us over the bridge, past the cars and up the road climb to Troutbeck, and onto Robin Lane. The snow past the houses was hard packed from walkers, and not too icy, at the seat we turned down the track to have more fun on the descent through the snow, and onto Holbeck Lane. A right turn and the second left down Mirk Lane, this had some deeper snow in parts, combined with some slippery sections, just as you seemed to be in control, one or both tyres would slide alarmingly – so some of the descent seemed to be like skiing on one or two wheels.

The snow seemed a bit crisper on the return up Wain Lane; we regrouped at the road junction enjoyed nibbles courtesy of Jamie and continued to Troutbeck and the final off road descent, testing fun in the snow, to finish by the church. Charlies studded ice tyres did not seem to have been seriously challenged with much ice, although her van did need a little help to get off the park.

Words by Neil. Next ride in Ings, again, and time for a meal at pub.

16th December 2010 - Ings (ride & Christmas meal)

It was cold, really cold! it was freezing, literally! -3 degrees with a wind chill of something resembling arctic conditions. 8 turned out (Neil, Jamie, Chris M, Grant, Charlie, George, Paul, Joel - Chris T was there in spirit but stuck in Carlisle and would be joining us later for a meal at the Watermill), we aimed to set off by 6pm but this was a little later than planned as we all set off south towards Whasdike and Black moss (or was it Borwick fold? it was a bit of a blur!) then back towards the road, crossing the A591 and up the green lane towards Mislet, a few icy puddles and then back to the road. At the junction we headed left up the hill towards High Borrans, through the farm, across the field to 'finger gate' (a new term of endearment for the gate I hit a couple of weeks ago).

From there it was decided to do 3 rivers and then get back before they stop serving food at the pub or our bikes started to freeze! Some of us had already begun to experience transmission problems with the weather affecting our gear changing, and the weather had already frozen the water in our camelbaks' .
At the first river we all stopped to admire the moonlit landscape, Jamie had already noticed this and was riding by moonlight, after the second river the gate had frozen stuck and Jamie released it with the aid of a rock. Everyone cleared the 3rd river and we all met up at the bottom of the decent before Sawmill cottage where Paul decided to demonstrate his creative moves combining strictly come dancing and mountain biking on ice.



It must have been the river water that was causing a few problems, despite everyone clearing the rivers, the clear waters were beginning to freeze on the bikes and many of us were stuck in a single speed.

The final climb from Browfoot to the top of the hill, then right and then left, followed by a fantastic long and icy decent through Grassgarth and back for a hearty meal at the Watermill to celebrate Christmas.

Next week (23/12/10):

Kendal, meet in car park next to Brucies bike shop.


Meanwhile, Merry Christmas everyone...

2nd December 2010 - Ings

This ride was scheduled from Elterwater, but due to the snow and Arctic conditions making travelling tricky, we decided on somewhere local and Ings was it. It was also the venue for last seasons coldest night out where we ventured out in -9 degC so would it be colder???

6 riders met up at Ings, Grant, Charlie, George, Chris M, Jamie and Joel; CT was running late due to travel logistics getting in the way, i.e. messy icy weather! and so the lead group set off south west for the trip round to Blackmoss, there was apparently an incident with a gate, but the gate survived, ask Joel for details. From Blackmoss head over the A591 and across to Heaning to Mislet to join up with Moorhowe Road and head along to met the Dubbs track, up the track and meet up with CT at the reservoir. Now you should be warmed up of sorts, but you do not want to stand around too much or your feet will freeze (unless you have nice warm NEW boots like Charlie! next week look out for the snow tyres). Onwards and up the lane, the snow was filling on the gaps but the bikes wondered around whilst finding grip, so you had to keep peddling and looking for grip and direction. Make steady progress up to Garburn track where we stopped for Chris M to produce some flapjack, from the classic date recipe first introduced by Neil, thanks must go to Chris's wife for the baking! Now head down Garburn, tricky in the snow as there is a ditch either side, turn right at the Limefitt, stop for photo! continue down to caravan park, here George had freewheel issues, i.e. it froze, so did anyone need a pee? because if you can pee on your freewheel (i.e. make it warmer to free the frozen mechanisum) you can carry on, it worked and George continued. Down the main road, thinking to go up Garburn for the return leg, but George and the others carried on up the road, we then turned left to take the lane to Ings, but it was cold on the road and so we turned off left up Longmire Road, here Joel carried on the lane back to the pub. We ride back up to Garburn, rode and walked some of the hill and then rode down Dubbs Road and back via the lane. The snow riding was interesting in many places, feeling slippy when smooth on the road to riding like loose sand where it was just powder snow, but we all made it back safely if a little cold and the temperature... the cars said -6 degC, but it felt colder! Nip in the pub for a log fire, beer and crisps. Next ride is scheduled as troubeck, so at least it's local.

25th November 2010 - Kentmere

4 turned out, Chris M, Charlie, Jamie and Neil for a cold winters ride. More details to follow but I hear it was fast due to being too cold to stand around!

Neil picks up the story: A very cold night, it certainly seemed like the coldest night so far. So we quickly decided to go over Barley Bridge and up Hall Lane. With the freezing conditions it seemed that the normally soggy ground towards Lonsledddale via Green Quarter Fell and Cocklaw Fell would be firm. The climb showed the ground to be very firm and all puddles frozen hard. Riding the track that is normally soft and soggy, over Green Quarter Fell and Cocklaw Fell, we found quite a lot of ice, some being difficult to see with lights. Black and looking at first like a shadow across a hollow, but some ice was quite smooth and very slippery. At one section to avoid ice on the track, I went onto the sloping grassy hillside, only to find both wheels sliding sideways – sloping ice!

Joining the track just above Sadgill, to return to Kentmere again care needed with the ice around.

At this point I think the cold got to my brain, as I can’t remember if we did the bonus loop. But we dropped down the road, to turn onto the bridleway at Long Houses; this was good going with the frozen ground. After the main climb, the normally heavy and soggy ground was firm and good to ride on. At this point Chis M had an emergency over the bars dismount, not quite sure what happened one moment he was riding alongside me the next he was flying through the air. Seems a bit extreme to get an extra mention in the blog.

HP descent was deemed to be maybe a challenge too far in the conditions, so we returned down Hall Lane, but turned right down the bridleway to Elfhowe –this was good to go down with the hard ground, which we seem to more often come up it. At the cars everyone wanted to get back and get warmed up so no pub afterwards.

Next ride Ings.

18th November 2010 - Haverthwaite

7 met up on the lane next to the Anglers Arms at Haverthwaite, George, Charlie, Neil, Grant, John, Jamie and CT. Same route as usual; something like this - Head from the pub turning left down the road, then take a left turn on the B5278 for a few hundred yards then turn off left by the glass works to take the bridleway running parallel to the river Leven. It's a good test especially after the wet weather and with the leaf cover, once thru' the top gate take the lane to the road and head up the switch back to a left turn onto the fell. Head north east along singletrack including some up and downs, thru' streams and over rocks, keep your momentum and you may be OK, but watch the muddy sections otherwise a little walking is involved! End up around Canny Hill and take the lane by Crook Hill to cross the main A590 to take a little lane to Barrow Banks, there turn left and head up a lane and then a fire road UP into the forest, using easy gears for a while. After a bit there is a bridleway to the left side, don't take this YET, keep going and turn left at the top, following the fire road, level off and now start to go downhill, look for a route to the RHS, re-group and stop for a bite to eat, cheers Jamie, and enjoy the fun of the roller-coaster through the trees! , now back at the intersection we passed before, so blast down the grassy hill to Staveley in Cartmel and take the road to Newby Bridge, keep right and head on the road to Lakeside, here CT developed a slow puncture and as it was in a tubeless tyre tried to blow it back up, it only last a couple of miles and then needed an inner tube (always remember to pack a pair of pliers to get the value out!) it was a small piece of glass 3-4mm embedded in the tyre not allowing the sealant to do it's stuff. Anyway all repaired and so pick out a track thru' the leaves of great knott wood and end up towards town end then take a left turn onto a great downhill track thru' turner wood and down to a road by the railway, head back via some 'singletrack' and back to the pub for beer & crisps, but not after CT had another puncture only this time to the front tyre! Next ride is Kentmere, meet Barley Bridge.

11th November 2010 - Carmel

6 riders braved the high winds, some even washed their hair especially! George, Charlie, Jamie, Paul, CT and Grant met up at the race course car park, we decided to give Hampsfell a go and see what the weather could throw at us? Set off east out of the village and up the first hill, around past the golf course and take the first left towards Grange, at this junction we came upon a bull terrier type dog, all on his own seemingly quite enjoying his walk out in the wind, but being a dark dog the first thing you saw was his green eyes reflecting back from our lights, Halloween-ish. Onwards until a left hand track passes Spring Bank farm, here CSC and CT encountered Mr. Brock, who could not quite decide what to make of us, but luckily did not run out in front of us directly. A way further on and we start getting onto the fell-side, at one point after turning left to head up a steep bank the wind direction was directly against us and you can feel how hard it is to stay in a straight line, so you have to weave with the wind and look out for anybody near you so you do not hit them! There was also a lot of rocks to contend with and under normal circumstances would be fine, but with high gusting winds to topple you over the edge some walking was involved just to be safe. The downhill section was nearly as bad as you had to peddle downhill and into the wind, making interesting technical riding. Back towards the bottom and you go past Longlands which is a nice house with a long drive with lots of wind swept leaves on.
Now we headed back to Cartmel past the cars and through the race course to take the lane and bridleway around Burns bank and Burns farm and also past Howbarrow, going through woods, lane and tracks which were a little slippy in paces and CT did a superman impression, only flying along the rocky road, ouch, bruises now green! Back to the cars, no chips but beer and crisps in the pub, Cheers Grant. Next ride is Haverthwaite.

4th November 2010 - Silverdale not Sawrey

It was a stormy night on Main Street....OK so it rained a lot and hence put some roads under water, therefore the committee took the sensible decision to move the ride away from Far Sawrey as the other side of the lake is not the best with flooded roads. Joel, Chris M and Jamie were away for this ride (so they already knew), Paul had too many potentially flooded roads to cross so decided on a warm lounge, Neil said he still had to wash his bike and the curry night at Weather-spoons looked good!! John and George weren't sure and took an early bath, but Grant, Charlie and CT were up for a ride, so we made for a rendezvous in Silverdale. There were a few puddles to get through but we made it and it nearly stopped raining for the start, head out of the village past Holgates and around to the bridleway over Arnside Knott, a bit slippy and very quick downhill, now head out of Arnside via Black Dyke towards Hazelslack but take the lane south of Dolly Wood, this had some great big puddles and so wet feet were to be had!! also it had started to rain again, nice and steady. Now head south to Yealand (past Georges house!) down Dykes lane to pick up the bridleway lane running parallel with the A6, again a few puddles and now a front puncture for CT, just when its raining, this lane takes you through to Borwick lane and now up to Warton, straight over the junction and up the hill for the tricky bridleway tester over Warton Crag, Charlie knew the score and got off at the bottom, the others got off a few feet after! enjoy the walk and wonder if this could ever be rideable??? Once near the top get on the bikes and try to see through the gloom and mist, watch out for the water-bars across the track and also the mud wallows. This downhill was quite a test and relief at the bottom, turn right and take the lanes back to Silverdale. Now very wet, quick change and into cars to head home for bath. Next ride is Cartmel

28th October 2010 - Gilpin Bridge

6 turned up at Gilpin; Chris M, Charlie, Ian, Neil, Jamie and CT, it was mild but had been raining, so look out for puddles. We thought we should try the old longer route and decided to go clockwise and end up with a chain gang on the road back. Charlie has a new gleaming bike, i.e. it had a really good clean, so no puddles for Charlie!! Head off over the new Sustrans bridge and past the farm to head up the leafy track, though the woods and down into the village turn right and head along to the school with some puddles to splash through. Part way along Chris M had a chain issue and thereafter his gears were wrong, eventually it was sorted by getting the wheel to seat correctly. We headed down the normal cliff edge descent which was sketchy due to the mud, but we made it down and then turned right for a mile+ of road and then up the muddy track, before this Charlie has noticed her tyres were rock hard and let some air out and so had great traction from the tyres going up the climb and she lead the way. A brief rest and re-group at the top near the school and then set off along the lane heading towards the re-built burnt out house, not sure the occupiers of the house knew what to make out of all the bike lights heading up their drive (it is a legal bridleway), not quite sure we would be classed as UFOs? Follow the bridelway de-tour sign and cross a field and join up with the track, a bit of climbing and then the downhill tunnel track through the trees, I was behind Jamie and his LED lights were lighting up the trees surrounding him, giving a halo effect with his red tail light in the middle, a great picture in the offing and the descent is fast and straight, well worth the extra route. Now turn left at the house and down some single-track to the road opposite the Lyth Valley hotel. Re-group and head down the road, there was a head wind and so we tried to get into a chain gang for the couple of miles back to Gilpin, but back for chips and a drink. Thanks to the Gilpin Bridge who made chips for us all, spot on! Next ride is Far Sawrey meet near the phone box.

21st October 2010 - Red Lion, Lowick

7 made it out, Neil, Grant, Jamie, Ian, George, John and CT for a tour of Blawith and Subberthwaite commons. It went something like this; head south west from the Red Lion past Lowick head right hand turn over cattle grid for Long Lane and Kiln bank, over to Tottlebank, right turn heading north east, head for High Kep, take first left at the lower junction where some folk had headed up the climb but thought we may re-group at the bottom and make a route choice so we headed back down, only to decide to head back up the same climb! all good training!! over Woodland fell, enjoy the descent and turn right to Green moor wood, down through the woods, turn right and climb up The Knott, here we rested at the junction and chatted before turning right and tackling the rocky boulder section and downhill before crossing the beck, this section looks worse than it is, but at night could catch you out. All safe we climbed up the fell, assisted by a near full moon, when the clouds broke up. Now back to High Kep and retrace our steps to return to the pub for beer and crisps. Next ride is Gilpin Bridge. PS: The photo is the view from 'AlpsPix' at 2050m, it would be great if MTBs were allowed on the cable-car!!!

14th October 2010 - Winster

6 turned out for a dry ride, George, Jamie, Charlie, Ian, Paul and CT, (Grant said he kept away 'cause of man flu, well done the other chaps did not want to catch it! Joel did not show as he figured Jim had eaten all the cake as not having an email from Charlie about sustenance matters!). After some adjusting of headlights, 50% of the group were with additional headlights and the others all had 'Alpkit' back ups within their MULEs or on helmets; so it seems the fact that you can see around corners and therefore into the future, shows headlamps to be goooood (as I have said all along, Ed!!) So we set off down the hill and took the first left hander, the ground was dry, albeit with plenty of leaf cover, quite ridable over the first section and up the hill to meet the cows in their usual field, down the field track and onto the lane, up to the road and a little discussion on radio quiz's and what you learn sometimes on homework sucks! Onward...down the lane first left again and onto rocky track, here it is worth having a mate ride ahead and test out the puddles, Paul went round the first one and then though the second, but this was the deep one! Enjoy the descent, but not too much...Jamie had a tyre issue with his 29er tubeless set-up, i.e. he just nicked a rock and lost the air seal, new inner tube required, someone joked that if you have Charlies extra narrow Panorama 1.4 inch tyres you would have missed the said rock!! Continue on track cross over road, meet main road, turn left and head back past cars and onto the Winster ford, on one rode across! now steady climb up tarmac lane, re-group at the top..banana time.. now enjoy the next section, mostly downhill, a couple of gates and a little race along the field track to the last gate, just remember to sharpen your elbows if you hear a freight train coming!! (just joking), now one last lane track section and look out for the boy racers, back to the cars, no rain and a good ride. Next ride is from Lowick, near Red Lion.

7th October 2010 - Ings for Garburn - All the way!

7 turned up; Joel, Paul, Jamie, Chris M, Charlie, Neil, CT and after a little wait Grant (without his bike...it's a long story, ask him when you get a mo'), now for some small print; our chief blog editor had not managed to publish the long awaited winter season route list, due to technical web difficulties and the like...you know running a multi-conglomerate life (work, play, blog, school run...), I know it's just juggling but circus life is sometimes very policital, anyway the list is now done, at least with some room for improvement, so if you want to add any rides let us know. Having looked at the list I have added Cartmel and also Sedbergh, we just need to think about routes!
So last week no one had seen the list, except CT who was reading off last years and knew it was Garburn!, but thought to add a twist, i.e. now the track had been repaired we should look at doing the whole ride from the road at Troutbeck side, but should have mentioned this fact, ooops! So ride from Ings up the road and head across to Limefitt, circle round and back to the road to start Garburn from the bottom. JP decided to wait at the cross-roads (to save himself for Garburn). The first section from the bottom is steep and tricky, but a great tester (= a couple of dabs!), then just work your way up and meet JP at the Y junction. Re-group and head on up the technical climbs, turns, S-bends, just keep trying, it's a fantastic challenge. Just near the top gate we rested and Charlie came up trumps with Millionaire shortbread, just the job and it was demolished by a gaggle of gannets!
Now crest the top of Garburn and get ready for the downhill, the first bit is tricky and then it gets hard, Chris M took a tumble near the top and CT made it past, but came a cropper later on! Grant was testing his skin and yes blood does come out if you bash it hard enough! Get to the bottom and ride round to Kentmere church and up to 3 rivers, cross over the top river and head for the boggy bit, but this has been repaired and is great, striaghtback down to Ings and the pub for a beer. A great ride! Next ride is Winster.

23rd September 2010 - Gilpin Bridge

A bunch of us met at Gilpin Inn; George, Charlie, Ian, John, Paul, Grant, Jamie, Neil, Joel an CT, so a quick lap of the woods and back for some nosh. The usual route along Sustrams bridge, up the woody hill, an ideal test of Ians new chain (and older cogs!). Keep moving, along the lanes, up past the school and around into the woods, short break only to discover that Ian had a flat, so some flew off for some extra route finding while the others talked and waited for it to get darker. Enjoy the decent and then watch an owl sitting on a branch making a racket! Off down the road, direct route back to food meant down the lanes, trying to get a chain gang working. Now back to the Inn for main courses and puddings! Next ride is the first official winter ride, so bring lights, we will be meeting at Whinlatter, park near or at visitor centre for 6.30pm.

16th September 2010 - Ings

8 turned out in the end (Neil (apparently Neil may not have attended...? did we miss anyone else off the ride list??), Jamie, Chris M, John, George, CT and even Joel!), Grant was a tad late having been on a mercy mission to save some guppies, or at least that was his evidence for being late AND forgetting to put his lights on the bike! So off up the Dubbs road (where Grant eventually caught up...he did not even notice the new boy, JP, until Garburn) and onto Garburn, but we headed left down hill to Limefitt, Garburn has been reconditioned so we'll see what happens after winter. We did not go through Limefitt but kept on the 'Sam' route into the top end of Troutbeck, with half a plan to detour down to the church and then up the testing singletrack, only no one else read the script...we eventually met up at the seat on Robin Lane and explained the next section of the ride in words of one syllable! So down from the Pillar and onto the lane turn right for 100 yds then left onto Wain Lane, here Grant was slowing down through the dark tree lined areas (wot no lights!), hit the road turn right and prepare for the climb up Mirk Lane. Ride up to the off-road section, select first gear and ride like mad through the mud, just keep going, the first three made it through, up and down and re-group near the house for the next testing section up the gravel track, much walking it appears, but CT gave it a try and even made it past the third corner and only stopped on the easy bit! At the top of the lane by the farm the moonlight was twinkling off Windermere, very poetic. Now head off right down the bridleway before Town end, cross the river, up the slippy field track and onto the road, back home via Moorhowe road and into the Watermill at Ings for a beer and snacks. Next ride is at Gilpin Bridge and the end of summer meal.

9th September 2010 - Elterwater

8 turned up (eventually) for a trip round Loughrigg Terrace, the usual start straight up a hill and Chris M doing his usual off-road de-tour, but it's a good little tesing climb to start, then off down the side of the terrace overlooking Grasmere and then the water ride thru' Rydal, along to the road past the stepping stones on the Rothay and then right turn up the tarmac hill climb. We had a little play time over a rock garden section, well done to those that did. Now on for the descent and another rock slab option round a right hand corner, Grant sent us back to complete the task! Round past Loughrigg Tarn, under High Close hostel and it was still light for the descent down Walthwaite Bottom, there are a couple of different options here and a few took the steep route and it was very steep, well done to Jamie, Neil and Paul, maybe next time...back to the cars and the pub for a couple of portions of chips and a twix, cheers Charlie! Next ride is from Ings.

2nd September 2010 - Barbon

To understand this blog I will have to give you a short version of Rads 1st amendment as decreed by Charlie prior to the ride. “I am going to the Mintfest fireworks display for 8:30 so the choice is a prompt start at 6:30 or we will have to hurry round”. This enthusiasm was too much for Joel and had others wondering. 4 (Charlie, Grant, Neil and John) set off up the steep hill on the road to Gawthrop as the hands of the church clock moved onto 6:30. At the right turn onto the unfenced road to Casterton, with Charlie’s intentions having been clearly stated, we waited here for the late starters Paul, George and Jamie to catch up. After a short ride down the road take the short but tricky climb up through Tulpot Wood. George’s radar whilst taking to Jamie missed the overhanging concrete nib and he took a tumble whilst still clipped in. Blood was drawn. At the top follow Fell Foot Rd (green lane) then at the road turn left up the hill towards Bull Pot Farm. About 2/3 up take the bridleway that climbs up towards Brownthwaite Pike. This is another climb with a few awkward bits which had George repeating his earlier trick, but no blood drawn this time. Rest at the gate then it’s around Brownthwaite Pike and a fast descent to Gale Garth. At Bull Pot farm turn left and take the bridleway back down to the Gawthrop road. This is a bit of a bone shaker on a hard tail. 3 crossed Barbon beck at the ford. George and John got wet feet whilst Neil took an early bath! Another who couldn’t get his feet unclipped. I suggest a squirt of WD40 on the pedals prior to the ride saves the blushes. Any other suggestions? Then take the bridleway through Barbondale, no lights necessary because of the prompt start and Charlie cracking the whip all the way round. Then down the Hill Climb to the Church arriving at 8:05. On schedule Charlie headed off to join the queue at Mintfest whilst the rest of us took a leisurely stroll down the road to the Pub. No chips because they like to ‘charge you plenty’. JT. This Thursdays ride is from Elterwater

26th Augyst 2010 - Ings for Garburn

5 (Grant, Jamie, Neil, John and CT) met up near The Watermill at Ings, the rest were on holiday or out running (well done Charlie!) Having said that John turned up from Bardsea and he was on holiday! Usual route up Dubbs way, although JB and GA were looking at an alternative, but Neil was head down and already up the Dubbs route so we carried on, up Dubbs and onto Garburn, pause at the gate and head off for the testing climb, Grant led the way but dabbed at the first corner leaving the way for CT, who managed the first two corner sections before dabbing, JB came past and did well. We eased our way up to the top on a fine evening. It looks like there is an alteration to a path near the bridleway, perhaps to save some bog area. The downhill was great as ever, fun and games, with Neil having a second go at the rock garden and Grant laughing his way down. Now route up past Kentmere church and head to three rivers, getting dark so stayed along the top route (one river and a bog crossing!) then straight down the road avoiding mucky farm. JB rode home and the rest sampled some beer and crisps and discussed past years Scotland rides. Next ride is Barbon, park near the church.

19th August 2010 - Tebay for Borrowdale valley

8 met up just off the M6 for the route down Borrowdale valley, Neil, Paul, George, Chris M, Ian, Jamie, Grant and CT, TG had decided that after last weeks route choice that we boys could not be trusted and declined to attend (really it looked like rain, actually it was raining so goretex was donned for the start). So we set off north along the valley, past the farmhouse with the generator, really is a great spot. A quick climb up to the road and them tee off left and blast down the lane after listening to the electric pylons and their strange noises. Chris M hoped the horses weren't at the bottom as John the horse whisperer was not on the ride, and yes they were there but not causing any bother. Down past the farm and watch out for sheep in the road, the farmer was herding then home to get ready for market, so we stood aside and let them past. Onwards along the lanes trying to warm up for the next hill climb up to the masts, a small pause then you can't put the climb off any longer, so go for it, Chris M and Grant took the lead, but eased back and JB and CT took over, with JB making it first over the top. Neil came up trumps with a celebration snack (thanks Sue) as Neil is now a Grandfather (he's getting on and forgot the champagne), but we'll excuse him due to the excitement of being a new Grandad. Now it's just the downhill through the high grasses and navigating to the left turn to get back to the valley road, all back safely, but the bugs were biting at the cars, so all off home. Next ride is Ings.

12th August 2010 - Ullswater from Hartsop

Even in mid-summer holiday season 5 turned up, with another en route, Charlie, Ian, Neil, Grant, CT with Jamie planning to catch up and rendezvous later. The plan went something like this...there were a few phone calls going around saying folk maybe late, but in the end it was only Jamie and he said he would catchup if we went clockwise (as he could speed along the road and make up time), now we did joke about going in opposite directions then at least we would meet at some point! Group 5 set off circa 6.36pm head north on bridleway towards the lake, as there is no bridleway directly to the lake shore we went part way up the Hause and then took the turn towards Rooking, this probably took more time than we thought, but hey it was a nice evening, with only the threat of rain in the air, it was really short sleeve weather, honest. Now somewhere around Devils Chimney we passed two walkers and I spotted 29er tyre tracks, upon enquiry the walkers said yes they had passed a solo MTBer a while ago, so the chase was on.....to find mobile signal and phone JB! The shore route is testing in both directions, so we carried on enjoying the evening ride. Once you get around to Sandwick head south along the Boredale valley road and watch out for cars (as they will not be expecting a bunch of MTBers coming round the corner), as the road turns into the bridleway track Grant noticed a herd of deer on Martindale common near the aptly named Deer forest. Now just keep going and climb the last section up and over the Hause, it's bit rocky but worth it for the next downhill. For those who have not worked it our yet Jamie was way out in front and headed back to the cars before it got dark, some of us had lights and Ian always downhills better in twilight and he said the descent was 'Great' , Charlie had other ideas due to brake issues but did ride it all the way down, now back to the cars in the last light of dusk, ready to see the shooting stars later. No pub so coffee from a flask, some nibbles and general post ride chat/analysis.....PS; on the drive home after going over the top of Kirkstone and starting the descent, just watch out for sheep lying on the tarmac at night, luckily the one on Thursday night was on the over side of the road, but it's a warning, sheep like the warm tarmac! Next ride is Tebay, park at Borrowdale head near to M6!

5th August 2010 - Hawkshead for Grizedale

Two turned up at the new start time of 6:15. They had found out that the charge for Hawkshead car park was £3 so it was decided to de-camp to Moor Top. A note was left on the tree opposite Ian’s favourite parking space just in case he arrived late. So, eventually Charlie, Neil, Grant Jamie, Chris M and John set off. We started on the Northface trail downhill section but just after the first boardwalk Charlie had a puncture. There were many derisive remarks aimed at the self healing tube. It emerged from the rear tyre spewing green liquid and was eventually deposited in a sealed bag to be taken back for analysis by Dr Jim. A minute or two later down the track Chris was found in the trees – a hard landing - and as a result was suffering for the rest of the ride. We continued to follow the north face trail (the single track climb out of the Grizedale Centre) but when we got to the turn for Parkamoor (anticlockwise direction) it was decided to add this loop. From about Rowan Tree Dub (nearest place name on the map) we took the green lanes around Mustard Hill back down towards the visitor centre and then almost immediately the bridleway back up to fire roads on the top. Back to Moor Top via fire roads and bridleways as the light was beginning to fade. Not really a good location for chips and a drink so we headed home.
Next ride is the Ullswater shore ride, meet at Hartsop village, the car park at the far end for a most excellant adventure.

29th July 2010 - Sedbergh

No information yet....so watch this space? here we go news from Paul...
6 made it for this ride, Ian, Chris M, Jamie, Charlie, Neil and Paul. After some mutterings in the car park about heading up the Howgills we set off on the usual route. On the Millthrop road, go over the river Rawthey and take the 1st left, then right in the hamlet to take a lane up onto the fell. This is the first bit of off-road and a little tester. The pace was quite quick and there was no waiting at the gates. Across the fell then after a great little down hill it was across the road, down the rather overgrown track to the ford, where we utilised the bridge to save getting our feet wet. Along the road towards Dent for a couple of miles before heading right up the big climb towards Barbon. At the end of the climb turn left on the Green Lane (now banned to 4x4s), no regroup here everyone just kept going. Along the Green lane (with a short stop for some of Charlies fat free sugar free chocolate free cookies, although I didn't dare ask what the brown stuff in them was, still they tasted good) then left onto the bridleway down into Dent. (Somewhere along the green lane it had been decided between a few of us that we should skip the pub stop and ride out of Dent towards deepdale, then right and back up onto the Green Lane as an alternative to the norm) After the downhill we stopped near the pub, where Ian upon hearing the new plan left the group in disgust at us not stopping for a pint and chips. The 5 of us that were left continued on our route up Deepdale Lane then right up a rather steep and stoney Green Lane which joins the green lane back to the Barbon Road. This used to be an awefull track due to the heavy use by 4x4's but now it was a good ride, a slight decent all the way back to the Barbon road. Back at the Barbon road we turned right, back down the hill, then left back towards Sedbergh. After a couple of miles, turn right, back over the bridge avoiding the ford, up the over grown single track, across the road, back up the farm track and basically the same route as the start of the ride but in reverse. Back to the cars for 10pm. Ian had already left and the rest of us made our way home, too late for chips, but a great ride with a new twist.
Paul has done a google map, ref: http://maps.google.co.uk/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&t=h&msid=111297820029278797203.00048d629f86ca1110c0b&ll=54.292084,-2.508659&spn=0.074542,0.191059&z=13

22nd July 2010 - Askham for Loadpot Hill

There were dark clouds covering High Street but 5 turned at Askham Swimming pool car park – George, Grant, Neil, Chris M and John. The peleton set off south on the road towards Helton at a comfortable pace. Ride straight past Helton and then turn first right but take the left fork on to the fell road towards Rough Hill. At the start of the fell road Grant made his first move and broke from the group but he wasn’t sure of the way so had to wait. Just before Rough Hill Tarn turn right, not on the Bridleway but up the track to Howe. Just past the farm follow the grass track west towards Low Pot Hill. At this stage, the beginning of the climb up the long limb of Load Pot Hill, Grant made a second move up the grass slopes. Would it be decisive though? Read on.... Although there had been a lot of rain over the past week the going was good and the boggy sections were rideable. It was at this point that John dropped off the group. You don’t get a view of the trig point at the top until you are nearly on it so I couldn’t witness Grant’s victory but I guess he is the current King of the Mountains. You’ll have to turn up next week if want to make a Challenge. Second thoughts I’m not sure about all this ‘Le Tour’ stuff because it means we don’t get any rest stops. As always it was cool on top. Fortunately, for Neil he had a pair of long fingered gloves in his bag but Georges fingers were a whiter shade of pale. Now for a great descent down High Street. The sudden steep drop after a short distance always catches you by surprise! For the best route leave High Street and take the left fork to Arthur’s Pike. Short detour to the top, but always worth it. It’s a good blast down from here except John got his front wheel in a rut and took a tumble - but a soft landing. Met up at about the cockpit to witness the sun set over Blencarthra. ‘Better than staying in and watching Coronation Street’ was Chris’s poetic contribution. Then we took the track up to the plantation on Heughsgar Hill and another down hill all the way to Askham. . It had been a pretty clean ride until a muddy pond right across the track took the wind out of the sails. It was a struggle to get out of in top ring. General consensus was that it had been a superb ride. Next ride is Sedbergh.

8th July 2010 - Elterwater

I did not make it to Elterwater and I am not sure who did, tell you what add your name and a comment and we'll soon have a storey.....

Or read the following from George:
Following a very wet day 7 riders George, Neil, Paul, Jamie, Ian, Grant and Chris M turned up at the car park at Elterwater for dry start. Turning left and right out of the car pack up the tarmac lane and then taking the track on the right leading down to the river then everyone cleared the first climb to the quarry. Then following the bridleway to the very steep technical climb which no one managed to clear but Jamie and Chris making the best efforts. We then procceded over to High Tilberthwaite, then left to the playground, then right Hodge close, now head along the lanes to Iron Keld. Climbing the long rocky track to the junction for High Arnside Grant unfortunately had a fall on the rocky section and we were notsure which hurt most his head or his pride I think it was the former. Making the climb up to High Arnside then to enjoy the great downhill to the Skelwith Bridge to Consiton road. Here we turned right and then took a left in about a mile to join the sustrans 37 route back to the car and the pub just as the rain came down. We had chips but the landlord was not too pleased about us sitting on his chairs in our cycling clothes

Next ride is Askham for a little bit of High Street, enjoy.

8th July 2010 - Keswick - Skiddaw

1 rider (John ) turned up at Briar Rigg about 6:25 pm. No one there but it’s a bit of a drive so didn’t think too much of it. Put some new laces in my cycling shoes. It was now 20 - 2 – 7. Made a little shuttle to swimming pool and back. Got changed - thought process - if others parked somewhere else at least I am the start of the ride. Had a banana. Had a jam sandwich left over from the morning. Had another little shuttle about and returned to Briar Rigg. Set up bike. Played a little Bob Dylan. Oops now 7:10, decision time. So got on the bike and headed down the old railway towards Threlkeld. Thought it was a bit late to include the climb up Lattrigg – good excuse. Noted all the points on the Greta where I had nearly come to grief in the old kayak. Not too keen on the road bit to Threlkald so after consulting map headed to Derwentfold. Track to Blencathra Centre not really visible, too late to turn back, no one about, so took footpath up by the Glender a terra beck. Good track but petered out so had to hack up to the bridleway that we normally take. At the head of the valley head back towards Keswick on Cumbrian Way. Rocks slabs dry so cleared the lot with a few dabs and some second attempts. At the first gate off the fell stopped for drink, took in the vista of St John’s in the Vale and beyond and had a little snooze. Woke up and it was dark. Its ok just a dark cloud passing over. Continue towards Keswick didn’t manage to clear Whit Beck at the bottom of the downhill, had second attempt, no good, must have been washed out since I last rode it. Up the grass slope to top of Latrigg for view of Derwent Water. Took another footpath back down onto the Cumbrian Way, then cruised down back to the car. Not hungry at the time so no chip stop in Keswick but got a vegetable curry from a Chinese in Ulverston. Think needed something to remind me of last weeks treat at Ian’s. Home for Question Time. Hmmm Perhaps I should have gone to Dubai!!

Ed's note, OK I do not have a photo of the ride, but the picture is of Thirlmere, so keep an eye out now the hosepipe ban is in force! Next ride is Elterwater, nice it's by the pub.

1st July 2010 - Lowick

6 riders George, Paul, Charlie, Ian ,Neil and John turned out on this very wet evening and set off at 6.50pm. Ian had cycled from home and provided the bad news that the barbecue was off but the good news that food was available inside his nice warm kitchen. We took the usual route, cross main road, over bridge turn left and warm up along the road, up the first hill (tarmac). Charlie made to to the top first and opened the gate and started a flood of gate jokes after saying she had waited so long that she had time to go to the woods for a pee before anyone else arrived. We then crossed the road to get onto the first downhill to Ickenthwaite usual puddles and more because of the heavy rain, where we met a moto-cross boy and guy riding a quad who were having a chat and blocking the track Then we went along the lane until we detoured left to meet up with the fire road more gate jokes. We set off along the fire road until we came to a fork where Ian tried to telphone home to get his chef to put the food in the oven. Unfortunately there was no signal so Ian took the left fork so that he could go home to do the cooking before the rest of us arrived. Sterling chap that Ian. We took the right fork and proceeded towards Parkamoor and enjoyed the ups and downs of this track. The views were not so good due to the driving rain. We then joined the track for High Nibthwaite for some real action whatever John was on it certainly gave him some adrenalin as it was impossible to keep up with him. George managed to clear this section with only one little dab for the first time ever. At the bottom of the hill we stopped off for a food at Ians, a superb spread prepared in a short time. Thanks to Ian for the beer, chips, sausages, chicken, sauces, pizza, buns and fresh salad! this was a great way to end a summers evening ride in the rain. Great we must do this again. Next ride Keswick

24th June 2010 - Ribblehead - Mid-summer ride

7 riders (Grant, Chris M, Neil, Charlie, Jamie, John and George) turned out amongst all the photographers waiting to capture the spectacle of the steam train crossing the viaduct. We all donned windproofs as despite it being warm everywhere else it was really cold at Ribblehead and were ready to set off at 6.40pm . As Paul had not arrived George said he would wait and catch up later. Chris m suggested that if George and Paul took the track to the right of the viaduct they could easily catch up with the group. When Paul and George arrived at the track they could not see the rest of the group so they headed back down to meet them coming up but unfortunately the group had got past this point so the pair had wasted another 15 minutes. The problem was neither Paul or George had completed this route before fortunately George spotted a group on the creast of the hill in front but when they had climbed the steep ascent they discovered the group they had spotted were girls completing their D of E award. However the girls informed them that the group was only 5 minutes away. So it was after 8pm when Paul and George re joined the group for the fantastic Downhill. By now the sun was shinning and everyone had removed their wind proofs. We headed down to Wearnside and keep going on up the steady climb, now it was warm but great to get to the top and head around the hill and start heading down towards Dent, watch out for the rocks, but it was a blast, a bit sketchy at times on the corners but enjoyable. Head all the way down to Dyke Hall lane, then right along the road next to the river Dee, which was almost dry. Easy ride along the lanes, ready for the climb to come. Look out for Artengill viaduct and head up Arten Gill bridleway, this is steep and steady to start and goes on and up, if you get to a gate first you can have a breather! At the top of Arten Gill moss windproofs back on as the air was starting to cool. From here we enjoyed the fast downhill to the road. Following a group discussion it was decided that it was too late to take the route via the Cam road and John got out his map which showed a bridleway that lead down to the main road. So the group turned right on the road and after about half a mile took the bridleway on the left. Here we arrived at a farm gate which had a sign NO F---ing Bikers so realising we had gone the wrong way we turned around and took the next gate on the left and rejoined the bridleway back to the main road for about a mile and half ride back to the car at 9.50pm with a few of the riders meeting at the pub. This was an absolutley superb ride in what turned out to be an excellent evening from that cold start. GT. Next ride is Lowick.

17th Jun 2010 - Walna Scar ride

7 riders George, Paul, Neil, Jamie, John, Charlie and Grant (on his own bike for a change) met up at the Hummer Lane forest access point, Charlie and Grant had set off earlier and left their cars at Torver so that they did the climb up Hummer lane at the beginning of the ride rather at the end they also made the offer to transport the rest of back up at the end of the ride. We set off west down the fire road, we continued on until the right hand bend in the track, where we looked for a marker on the LHS to find a route through the trees. This ultimately gets us down into the valley bottom. From here we transversed along the bridleway we used at the end of the Broughton Mills ride so that we could asend Walna Scar on the route Jamie had taken on the latter ride. This route was much more interesting and technical than the fire road and we continued tohead up the valley and work our way up to the old quarry buildings before starting the Walna Scar road proper. I am not sure how many riders made it too the top without walking as Paul on I were somewhat behind on this section. Once at the top, we appreciated the views. Time for a quick snack and a wind proof top for the next descent DOWN Walna Scar Road, the rocks for the next section were large and loose, it is quite a testing descent, all down OK past Goatfoot crags and take the right turn, here there is a testing drop off, just to check nerves! Then down past the quarry, but we enjoyed the down! back to Torver via the lanes. Charlie and Grant then offered to taxi the other riders back up to the start point at the top of Hummer Lane but all the other riders declined prefering to make the climb to complete the ride. We left Grant and Charlie debating whether they should go to the pub.
Cheers George, aways a good warm down ride back to the cars! next ride is the mid-summer special and is a repeat of last years ride from Ribblehead, meet just after the Viaduct and the road junction to Horton (B6479) plenty of parking on the road side.

10th June 2010 - Ings & GOLD

This is an alternative to the listed Winster ride, and 6 made it out for a ride; Chris M, Charlie, George, Paul, Ian and Neil, and 2 others made it to the pub for a meal; all part of the training for the Sam Houghton Challenge on Saturday. Briefly the ride headed south and round past Blackmoss and then over to Kentmere side for the usual 3 rivers ride.
Then in the pub we were allowed to view the GOLD medals from the recent MTBO World Cup event in Poland where Charlie won the Worlds Master W50 title, see attached pics, obviously too modest to mention the training rides with RADs, but we know the importance of regular rides and map training! next ride is Walna Scar starting from Broughton forest entrance off Hummer Lane.

3rd June 2010 - Keswick for Latrigg

7 turned out for Keswick on a warm and sunny day; George, Ian, Chris M, Jamie, Grant, Neil and CT turned out; someone else said "unfortunately I can't make it out, due to a date with my wife"...! What next riding with a world champion, watch this space...

So we set off in the sun from Briar Rigg up the Cumbria Way bridleway, turn right half way up and head east, then up the lane into Brundholme Wood and look out for the route onto the dismantled railway, it's tricky and easily missed...(group ride must try harder!) carry on east until the main road and head into Threlkeld then head north and west and up the tarmac climb to go past the Blencathra centre and head north past Blease Fell to get to the top of the valley and cross over to the west side and head south along Lonscale fell, this is a great test of bike riding both crossing the valley and getting over the rock gardens at the edge of the crags, just don't look over the edge! Now blast along the fell side and head for Latrigg and enjoy the views over Keswick and beyond, also enjoy the low flying jet, which was definately flying below us when we were at approx 300m. Now enjoy the singletrack descent back to the cars. A great ride for a summers evening. Next ride is Ings.

27th May 2010 - Satterthwaite for Grizedale

7 met up at the bottom of Moor Lane; Neil, Ian, John, Charlie, Chris M, Jamie & CT. After a little tweaking and route ideas, we set off through the village of Satterthwaite and up Beasty Haw, this turns into a great section of singletrack, but after the first section a stone jumped up and knobbled Charlie shin, so we had to stop for first aid, how come the shim always seems to bleed more! After a clean up and one plaster we move on, another few sweet sections and Charlies applies another plaster, just to make sure and keep the mud out of the wound. Down to the road, turn left for a while and climb through the forest and head for Moor top, here we head down the first section of North Face, onto a fire road and tee off left for another single track section, here Ian's chain broke and John offered his chain link, but alas it was 8 speed and apparently does not fit, so John came to borrow Charlies spare 9 speed link and take it back to Ian. Mean while we had flapjack (donated by CT, but carried by Chris M), now it started to rain, then Ian turned up and we head up onto the fire road and looked for a different route, so we went down the fire road and found a right hand turn onto a rocky route, this is quite a test but even in the rain there seemed to be grip. Then we came out on a top fire road and headed to the Park, where we took the little detour partway down to Lawson park, but took the left route though the trees and roots, tricky but testing, well done JB, take it slow and steady. Now head for the top of Moor Lane and enjoy the descent back to the cars. With the rain, this was an unusual ride and it seemed darker, but was still enjoyable. Next ride if Keswick, park at Briar Rigg.

20th May 2010 - Broughton Mills - Dunnerdale Fells

8 made it too the Blacksmiths Arms, Broughton Mills, John, Chris M, Charlie, George, Ian, Neil, Jamie and CT (albeit some used just in time technology!) The route leaves the pub and heads north west and picks up a bridleway climb, a nice opening tester through the trees and then continues to test on the fell, continue past Hovel Knott, south of Great Stickle and keep going west to enjoy the downhill to the road. Here we rested while Ian fixed a puncture, then up the road, north, to pick up the bridleway running north east along the Duddon, enjoy this uphill the road climb up Kiln bank. At the cross roads (intersection with bridleways) go left and head south past Raven's Crag, at this point climbing up some nice singletrack John was tee boned by a Rock slab which hit his rear mech into the spokes and caused mayhem which broke the rear mech hanger!Thanks to modern communications Charlie texted Jim for help...could he text a new hanger, he replied with the singlespeed option; so a little mechanic's was performed and John was underway, only he could not back peddle or it may jamb at any second!! At least it mostly downhill to the road. We carried on round to Jackson Ground where John headed back to the car, Chris M also headed home as he had run out of water. We now headed round to meet Long Mire and go south east to Stephenson Ground, along the way Jamie took a higher alternative route looking for another trail, he was silhouetted on the skyline with CT viewed from below and the moon in the evening sky; CT speeded up and JB then headed back down to the lower trail and the race was on, don't you just love those trail battles....it looked like a collision course, but no CT on a Santa Cruz aced it!!! Now we head up the valley and crossed over by the bridge and went back down through the forest and enjoyed the final off-road run to Hawk Bridge, here Charlie gallantly waited for Ian and Neil.....but they had already gone on...! We all met up back at the pub, too late for chips, so beer & crisps. Thanks must go out to Neil for supplying the spare bike, Cheers. Next ride is Satterthwaite for Grizedale.

13th May 2010 - Sedbergh for Dent

10 turned up , George, Paul, John, Ian, Neil, Jamie, Grant, Charlie, CT and Joel! After a sunny day the wind turned and it felt a little colder, but folk put warmer tops on and we carried on. Basically the traditional ride: we set off south on the Millthrop road, go over the river Rawthey and take the 1st left, then right in the hamlet to take a lane up onto the fell. This is the first bit of off-road and a little tester, once over the first rocky section it is plain sailing, except watch out for the cows! At the first gate time for a breather and take a look at the view back over the Howgills and which route we could take in the future....?Carry on over the fell, through the trees, past the farm, down the track, once onto the road, take the first right after 20 yards, heading down to the ford crossing, but since the bridge was built in 1999 most folk just take the bridge! Cross up onto the road which is the Dales Way and head for Gawthrop, now attack the first climb up Barbondale road (it's only 1km of hill, really) test those legs, get to South Lord's land take the first bridleway on the left and have a rest. Head along Green lane to meet up with the bridleway at the top, turn left and enjoy the descent into Dent, The Sun was busy and after a wee wait we thought we should head to the other local, so Ian & CY went there, whilst the publican must of thought punters were leaving so offered the others chips in double quick time! Ian & CT had a beer and crisps in front of a real fire the others started on mega chips sitting outside. When Ian and CT returned to the Sun there were plenty of chips to go round (folk were either thinking of their waist lines OR the big hill on the way back!). Once the refreshments had been consumed and the midges came out, we headed off, some asking which direction; we were to head for Frostrow Fells, the first lane is fairly easy to find, then it always gets tricky, ignore the first footpath on the RHS carry on and go past the 90 degree right hand bend carry on up and keep left past the front of the farmhouse and around the LHS, watch out for chickens and sheep, through the double gates and up the walled route, mind out for the holly bush and low branches! Follow the wall up and watch out for the shake holes (it's a bit boggy) once at the top head north west all the way back. Back at the cars before it got too dark, next ride is Broughton Mills.

6th May 2010 - Hawkshead for Claife

9 came out to Hawkshead, Chris M, George, Grant, John, Ian, Neil, Jamie, Charlie and CT. This ride was very much like the winter ride we did in January 21st, so for a route check a summary below; start with snake-bite alley, head towards Colthouse and tee off left onto Scar House lane, we all got to snake alley and bingo we all made it down with no punctures, so look out next time! Now the usual route to to head for basecamp, but went left along the shore line and kept going, here some of the climbs mean a walk so we opted to try and go up the descent from Far Sawrey, interesting decision, but actually ridable, until the rocks and the top section, anyway always good to have a change, being nearly as good as a rest! Head on past Sawrey (polling station still open for business and no queues) and head right and up past the tarns, lots of water running off the fells here. Once back into Hollin Band plantation we went over the junction for the extra loop and met up at the guide posts. Here it is a blast down to the road and back to Hawkshead. Now back to the pub for beer and crisps and to bet of the big race, what race says Ian, only the general election!! We left just before 10 and Hawkshead polling station was still serving! next ride is Sedburgh town centre and Ian like the ride to Dent as it involves a pub stop half way round!

Bank Holiday Monday 3 May 2010 - Classic: Gatescarth & Nan Bield Passes

Continuing our Classic rides in Cumbria 3 of us, Grant, Jamie and CT looked at Gatescarth and Nan Bield. Again the weather had been dry and the forecast was good, so sandwiches were packed and gears oiled. We set off from Barley bridge in Staveley and headed up Staveley Head fell and into Longsleddale where Grant had his first puncture, good training for the Sam next month. Continue north to Sadgill, where you start the track up to Gatescarth pass, the climbing is not too bad to start but obviously gets steeper. The river Sprint runs down the fell on the left hand side and when viewed it looked really clear, with some great water falls and rock pools. The track got steeper so less chat and more work, then in places it was a walk, but it's a good challenge, not technical just steep, we stopped at the top gate (near Brownhowe Bottom) for a snack behind a wall as the wind was a cold one from the north and there would be little shelter at the top. We rode on and in places it was very steep, again a good challenge to try to ride, then we hit the top and could ride over and continue DOWN all the way to Mardale Head, Haweswater. The descent is technical, but do-able as long as your brakes last! We past 2 guys on downhill bikes as they were pushing up and aiming for Nan Bield. At the bottom check out all the cars at the car park then head west to small water, now this route is narrow and technical, rideable in places but still much walking. After a while we made it to Small Water and stopped for lunch, looking at the map the distance from here to the nan biel pass does not seem too bad, but you can not make out the track when looking up the fell side and it took a good long time carrying the bikes. At the top is was very windy so we sheltered behind the stone wall, 'cause the north wind was cold! Now from here you can see the descent down to Kentmere, but first there is some more technical riding and very steep and narrow in places, I would rate this a solid BLACK run, so we walked some at the start, JB just waited halfway down! We met a couple of walkers and their 2 whippets at the top of nan bield and somehow they had made it down before we had! Now continue down and along Hollow Bank Quarter, past Overend and low lane to Green Quarter, here we headed back along the lanes, but not before guess who had another puncture! 5hrs and 30mins total time, 2 big climbs and 2 great descents and no rain on a B/H Monday!
Check out a video my Mojo, of Nan Bield the other way, with Danny Macaskill, Rowan Sorrell, Aimee Dix and Ed Oxley : http://www.singletrackworld.com/2010/05/video-mojo-trail-diaries-part-2/

29th April 2010 - Lowick Tottlebank

7 met up by the Red Lion at Lowick Bridge, Charlie, John, George, Ian, Grant, Jamie and CT. We set off south west down the lane go right after Lowick Hall, continue over cattle grid and tee off left on Long lane, right turn at Kiln bank, watch the spaniel running around enjoying the evening freedom. Now up Subberthwaite bank to see if Grants legs still worked! Down the other side and pick up the lane, heading left up and over Tottlebank, onto the fell and along to Giant's Grabe and watch out for the muddy puddle, especially if you have new shoes...eh Charlie? Now straight over the lane, albeit after a little route discussion, enjoy the fell track and down to the lane, now right and roll down the tarmac, after a mile tee off right and onto the bridleway, but not all the way up, take the left fork to Green moor, a very nice section of singletrack. Now down and around green moor wood, then up the steep climb, but look out for the bridleway on your RHS, here we take a break for Charlie's caramel shortbread, very good indeed, so much so an extra piece was consumed but some folk (no names...yet!) Now we head back around Woodland Fell and enjoy the singletrack, there was to be one hill climb at the end which was very hard, great gripping dry conditions, but too steep, especially after all that cake, otherwise CT & JB would have cleaned it...!! Now descend to the lanes and head back past Kiln bank and back to the cars in time for dusk. A great ride finished with a few drinks in the pub. Next ride Hawkshead.

22nd April 2010 - Elterwater

5 met up near Britannia Inn, Elterwater, Jamie, Chris M, Ian, John & CT. We decided to go along the river route, being Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge (LDNPA Miles Without Stiles), this has been washed out by the floods but is getting reinstated and also seems to be along Sustrans route 37, we did this last time at the end of the ride and it was dark, hence we went this way to have a look in daylight. This is a very nice route along the river and side of Elterwater and would be busy at peak times. Enjoy the crossing at Wooburn bridge, this bridge is made of metal side sections which appear to form part of the structure (LDNPA say: the bridge was erected in 2006 and named after a Skelwith Parish Council chairman, its location is fantastic. Resting high above Great Langdale Beck, the roar of Skelwith Force entices you on, built by Furness architectural metalworker Chris Brammall - ref http://mango.webfusion.co.uk/~chrisbrammall/17/content/public%20art/woodburn%20bridge/woodburnbridge0024c.jpg.)
So onward onto the road (A593) turn right and climb, we were aiming for the bottom of the bridleway going past Arnside plantation (low & high Arnside) and then dropping through Iron Keld. The weather had been dry and so the climbing was excellent with plenty of grip which meant hard work for the legs to keep going. The views west over the Langdales and crinkle crags were great. Once off iron keld, tee right and race back to the road, only watch out for loose gravel, re-group at the road, enjoy flapjack, cheers JB, Ian had a route to avoid the main road, cross over and climb, here options were spin fast up the climb or push middle ring, it's a long way so spin....then go right past low oxen fell and at the top join the plantation, here we fixed Ian slow puncture ready for the descent though the woods, it's great fun. At the bottom turn left at the wall and due to the dry weather and subsequent grip test your climbing against the terrain, not easy but worthwhile. At Stang end turn left for Hodge close, down through the slate run and try the ford! back up to Dale End and enjoy the twilight descent over the rocks. Back at the cars, beer & chips sitting outside the inn, great ride. Next ride Red Lion, Lowick.

17th April 2010 - High Street Classic route

This was a Saturday and not a normal Thursday night ride. After our winter training and Scottish weekend a few of us thought we should try some of our local Lakeland classic rides and High street is one of them, but it is best tackled after dry weather (or when frozen!). As the forecast was good a few texts were sent out, but due to holidays etc only Jamie & CT ventured out, first scrape ice off car windscreen, then we had to pick up a re-built wheel from Wheelbase and then re-grouped near Troutbeck church. Starting time around 10am with the sunshine showing through the early mist, head up road past Limefitt and take the bridleway on the right (see previous blog entry!) head along past Long Green Head, here we passed a group of walkers who would stay behind us until Thornthwaite Beacon (see photo), where some caught us up as we had our first sandwiches. Basically from the start you can ride for 30 minutes or so and then it's a walk/carry up the fell side, with places to ride until you meet the track from Froswick, ride up to the beacon for 12 noon lunch and shelter from the wind and yes there were still some pockets of snow! (photo of Jamie looking back down to Windermere near the top of the first climb).

Now roll down onto High Street and head north past Blea water and the racecourse hill, so named because of the 19th century practice of hosting sports days on the mountains summit! Half way up the Straits of Riggindale turn right and head along High Raise, towards Loadpot hill, here you tee off left and enjoy the descent down Barton Fell, where we passed a group of riders heading up hill (the wrong way we think). Now about half way! we rested at the ford junction and had our second sandwich stop before turning left and heading to Ullswater shore ride back. We checked the map and called home, tea on for 6pm so we had ourselves a target time, didn't seem too bad, until you realise that the Ullswater shore route would be full of walkers (where we usually do this on a summer evening when quieter). Drop down the hill side towards Howtown, take a lane and come round to start the shore route, now we were getting tired and would overtake walkers, but then stop for food, so the hare and tortoise game went on with some walking where required either for safety or just to save some legs, knowing we had a few miles to go before the Kirkstone pass as the last hill climb!! After a while we headed for the cafe at side farm for tea, coffee, crisps and ice cream. Now just a road ride along the flat lands until the bottom of the col, we had just over an hour to hit our 5pm target time back at the cars. At 10 past 4 we passed Brothers water inn and started the climb for real, my middle chainring was sucking and so I went down to granny which probably helped spin up the climb, albeit it took 45 minutes, but the plateau at the top of Kirkstone was a welcome sight, add on a gillet for down hill wind protection and zip down to the cars. 5pm spot on 7 hours and a great ride, measured off the map afterwards circa 30+ miles. Great weather for a great ride, just add suncream next time!

15th April 2010 - Troutbeck

Only 3 riders; Paul, George and John turned up for the ride starting at Troutbeck church just off the A592. Other riders made various excuses but we suspect they prefered to watch Cameron, Brown and Clegg do battle. The ride started by turning left on the A592 past the Limefit camping site and then taking a bridleway on the right after about 1/2mile. This track has rocky to start with and then turned into a farm track leading to Long Green Head Farm where we passed through a gate and turned right on to the bridleway which passed Limefit Park for approx 2miles to the top of the hill. After going through the gate we took the right fork down the rocky desent which takes us down to the A592 this has now be levelled and provides an excellent ride although not quite as technical. On joining the A592 we turned left and used the track on the right hand side of the road with the spiking railing to cycle to the bridleway on the right at the top of the hill. Here we enjoyed the long sweeping downhill to the stream which was very fast due to the dry conditions and then struggled to ride the up hill into the village. On meeting the road we turned right and road to the post office where we road up the hill to the seat with the fabulous view and then took the left turn down to the road. Here we decided to go down Mirk lane first and up Wain lane. Mirk Lane was excellent again due to the dry conditions and Wain lane was totally rideable. We then took the bridleway on the left leading to the seat at the top of the hill and back down to the post office. From here we took the single track back to the cars. cheers George. next ride is Elterwater.

8th April 2010 - Staveley for Kentmere

9 eventually turned up being John, Charlie, George, Ian, Neil, Chris M, Jamie, Paul & CT, there was some confusion about the start time, 'cause someone forgot to email out instructions...ooops! Lets go, up Green Quarter, fairly normal route, but Ian said he had never done it this way...or at least could not remember! Nice steady climb up and then down, at the road turn left check out the time and head back up via Long Houses another serious test, Oh what fun we had... then down HP just for the hell of it and watch out if anyone takes off on slightly different routes, just be cautious. Back at the cars via a road run back, early night and everyone headed home. Next ride is Troutbeck.

1st April 2010 - Gilpin for Yewbarrow circuit

10 turned out on April the 1st no joke; Charlie, John, George, Paul, Chris M, Ian, Neil, Jamie, Joel and CT. It was a little cold in the wind but a nice sun set (we still took lights) We took the usual route towards Whitbarrow up through the trees, right turn through the village to Witherslack Hall, then left past Yewbarrow and the descent to Church road, but we took a wrong turn! and enjoyed a great route through the trees and a very steep ending, great fun to ride. Now at the road turn right back along the lane for Knot Wood and the climb back to Witherslack Hall Farm, re-group and right turn for the edgy descent and back along the road, the idea being to form a peleton back to the pub and food, but you have to work together and there's no 'i' in team!!!! Back at Gilpin for food, but what to choose, only a couple of folk changed their minds, good nosh and back home in time for bed! The summer ride list is being fine tuned and next ride will be from Barley Bridge, Staveley.

25th March 2010 - Hawkshead for Grizedale

8 riders met up in the car park, John, George, Ian, Neil, Chris M, (splint off finger!) Jamie, CT and Charlie (just in time); this meant 5x LED, 3x Halogen, 2x hardtails! We set off west out of the village for the climb past Walker ground to get onto the North Face trail, slightly damp but ridable, once at the top you are onto the NF and so follow the red arrows. All OK towards the visitors centre, here we took a little tour around to see the new cafe, shop refurbishment, all very tidy. Now upwards and enjoy the climb, as we climbed in started to rain a little more, still keep going cake at the top (thanks to L&L). Just keep following the red arrows! No real action, Ians lights need some TLC, otherwise besides watching out for deer and frogs, it was a nice ride. Back to Hawkshead for a beer in the Sun, which had new floor and a make over, when you asked the barman what flavour crisps they had he asked you back what do you like and produced a wicker basket with a load of different flavours, except no ready salted...can't please everyone! Next ride is the first of summer, Gilpin Bridge Inn at 6.15 with meal afterwards.

18th March 2010 - Elterwater

5 turned up Jamie, Neil, Charlie, Gran & CT, it was raining so what to wear and which way to go..? Up the little road and towards the quarry, watch out for the frogs..! or are they toads, the warm wet weather seems to have woken then up, or are they looking for love...we just had to be on guard as they just sat in the middle of the trail!! Now the testing climb through the trees was virtually impossible in the rain, interesting around the tops and the rocks, as it had been dry it seemed greasy on the rocks or was our tyre pressure tooooo high? At the top of Sawrey wood Neil and Charlie let air out of their tyres, tricky as they both have tyre sealant inside! Onwards past Dale end and at the road turn right, more frogs, not over to Tilberthwaite, but along the bottom route Low Hall Garth, still a tricky test over wet rocks, Grant miss-timed one water crossing and fell in! Down to the ford, turn right and go left past the playground, up the 'breaking china' alley onto Hodge close, up the hill with a bit of gladiator style jousting for position on the trail (CT & Neil). At the top gate we paused for a re-group, change clothes etc, talk turned to leather boots and spurs, not quite sure where the conservation was going! so onward to take the left leg on the tarmac to get to the top of NT Tongue Intake plantation, enjoy the descent, right at the wall and through the stream, along the trail and out onto the road. Here we pondered what to do, Charlie wanted to check out the route along Gt. Langdale Beck to the car park. So we went in search of the turning, in fact you have to go right up to the main road (A593) then left, near to the bottom there is a turn off to the left signed as a bikepath and this runs to a foot bridge, Woodburn, (see photo), it's very impressive when lit up at night (by our bike lights, it's not flood lit!!). Now it is a very nice run along a bikepath along the river, besides still dodging frogs along the way, we don't want then ending up with 'small block 8' tread pattern on their backs!. The rain eased off during the ride and it was OK, now back at the cars, pub & chips time, yes they could still serve chips at the Britannia (£3 per basket, but a good amount) and the fire was burning. Next ride Hawkshead.

11th March 2010 - Staveley for Kentmere

6 turned out, including John with new LEDs, we set off UP past Jamie's corner, i.e. 2 rivers, then down to Kentmere where we met up with 4 others riders going in the opposite direction, earlier we had seen their lights across the valley and wondered where they were going, maybe they thought the same..? Down at Kentmere church we headed for Green Quarter, here John headed off, happy with his lights, just need more time with bike & legs. We climbed over Green Quarter and down to Staveley head, right turn and enjoy HP descent, then back along the road to the cars with a steady warm down, not! No pub, next ride is Elterwater (where there is a pub and we can give Grant a send off)