22nd December 2011 - Dubbs for Troutbeck

4 met up at the bottom of Dubbs lane, Chris M, Jamie, Freddie and CT, a bit windy, no real rain and a few stars were out, everyone else was at home watching Cavo win Sports P'of the Year. We set off up Moorhowe road to meet the next junction and tee off north past Latrigg to intersect with the bottom section of Garburn and see if we could ride the washed out bit and yes it was possible with some dabs. Along the road and down the field to cross and climb up to Town End, shed a layer as we were warming up and then through the village to climb up Robin Lane, we were wondering where all the rocks had gone, the ones washed down onto the roads 2 weeks ago, it appears as if the workmen have been and re-done Robin lane already, so it was a steady climb and then a fast drop down from the seat, then down Wain and along to Mirk for the climb back up and again climb back to the seat and down to the post office for a sit down and snack on JB's banana bread (recipe to follow?) very nice and moist. Down through the village past the church and up limefitt for the climb part way up Garburn to meet the junction with Dubbs, now this is where Freddie light decided to die, so he borrowed JB's helmet light for the blast down Dubbs, there was some loose rocks and some ravines, but it's a great fast ride. Back to the cars; according to gps log (so pinch of salt?) 10 odd miles, 2 hr 20min, only 744 calories burnt! and over 2000 ft climbed. Enjoy Christmas and a happy New Year. PS: photo message from Neil attachged, a great picture...spot Santa?

Sunday 18th December - Stavely for Garburn

Neil, Jamie and CT met up for a cold sunny Sunday afternoon ride involving a trip over the snow and Garburn. We kept to the west side and so less mud but some puddles and frozen ice patches, not enough for spiked tyres thou'. So up the lane to Browfoot and up onto the top track, 3 rivers route and down to Kentmere for the start of Garburn. Here the bottom section has been washed out by the recent floods, but the clear blue skies added to the ride. Usual ride / walk up but there is now some snow to make it even more fun, we passed some walkers including 2 whippet type dogs who were cold and not happy even though they had dog jackets on.
Once over the top, quick snack and watch the sun going down, then down the snow and watch out for the gullies formed by the water erosion, some looked like they were dug by a JCB others like an earthquake had hit, all very interesting and it kept you on your toes, obviously a great test for a fox t'logic:). Off down Dubbs to the road, then over Borrans to finish, a bit of wind chill to end, hardly needed the lights, 3 hrs 20 mins, around 15 miles I think, a blue sky ride to savour. Thursdays ride from bottom of Dubbs Lane.

15th December 2011 - Ings

6 met up at Ings; George, Charlie, Ian, Freddy, Jamie and CT made it out, just, for a quick blast round and back to the Watermill for some food. Paul and Grant didn't make the ride but did meet up later for food. There was a slight delay to the start as Jamie was bringing Freddy's bike and we had to wait, first I think Jamie forgot something (only a wheel!) and then upon arrive needed to blow up said wheel with a flat tubeless tyre, by this time it was raining...loads, but we assisted with the tyre blow up, already to set off and D'oh flat tyre again, so JB said go ahead and he'll catch up. We though this was code for it's too wet for faffing about may as well go t' pub and meet the others.....We set off across road and up the tarmac warm up hill, out to 3 rivers was the route and by the second gate, JB had actually caught us up!! First river quite deep so wet feet, then right turn for the next two rivers and more wet feet, it does not matter how waterproof your stuff is if you go into the water! Just before the last river George slipped down a grass slope on his backside! and on the final track to the road, after all the technical stuff around Jamie's corner JB also took a still on slippy rocks, not too much blood! up and over hill and back to cars to change into dry clothes for the meal (all except George who left his at home!). We though Jamie may come into the pub in shorts just to show off his damage and compare with Grants 'I have a bad knee' situation. Anyway all safely into pub for the food and to wind down, Christmas nearly here...! Next Thursday ride TBA depending of weather, but somewhere local.

8th December 2011 - Troutbeck

It was a windy day on Greengate (just off the Patterdale road), past the actual Trout Beck, I mean very windy, over 100mph up Scotland way on them hills; still it was a Thursday night ride so folk were out, well at least 4, Charlie, Chris M, Jamie and CT. Greengate was covered in rain water cascading down the road and lying below some large trees, so we parked just up the main road. First off up lime-fitt and down the bottom of Garburn, remember the last 100 yds past the buildings, well the rain from the last few days has taken all the small stones and left large rocky steps, so much walking down, very interesting to see the power of water. Along the road and cross over the beck, up into the village, have a quick word with some local folk and onwards up Robin Lane, again some water erosion or at least movement of rocks/stone from one place to another namely the village roads. We dropped down from the seat to Holbeck lane and again there were some ravines formed by the water and you had to keep your eyes peeled else you could end up a cropper. This time we headed down Mirk and back up Wain, Mirk again had ravines to look out for, and although wet had less mud to clog up with. Mirk climb was a tester as was the climb back up to the seat, where flapjacks were served. Back down Robin and down past the church to end, wet but having survived the windy night. there were rumours of snow higher up but we did not see any, but photo attached from Green Quarter Fell on Saturdays ride. Next ride from Ings where we shall have some festive fair/fare at the Watermill.

1st December 2011 - Elterwater for Loughrigg

4 of us met up on the common car park, after a little bit of driving around each other car parks to see if anyone else had turned up! Ian, Grant, Jamie and CT made it. Not a bad evening, so start up the tarmac and onto the bridleway section up to the hostel, then enjoy the descent down the side of Loughrigg Terrace, past the caves and round to Rydal and then along the road by the river Rothay. Now a heading climb up the road to get to Loughrigg fell, steady work to the top, re-group and blast down the other side, it's all fairly smooth now, watch out for the man and dog, through the gate and over the rock slab, down and tootle round the tarn, back via the road (gardens closed form maintenance) and then down the final bridleway, note some ice forming on the timber bridges, care required, back to cars to change. No pub, next ride Troutbeck, park by river lay-by before church.

24th November 2011 - Kentmere

4 met up at Barley Bridge, Charlie, Grant, George and CT. We considered Longsledale route but due to weather, winds, lack of legs and Grants bike test (newly serviced just like new...!) we decided 1 river crossing, Kentmere church and long houses. Nice steady start up the road, fiddle with lights to check home-wired LEDs (see photo showing LED board, heat sink, driver and cables), good to feel that boost does not get too hot. Along the top track cross river, up and over for the descent into Kentmere, here Grant enjoyed himself by passing others...whooooping and a' hollering...at some point he is alleged to have passed Charlie while splashing through a puddle (yellow card if it's true). Down the road and left for route up long houses, thru' first gate, onward and through second gate, uphill section starts but being a tad too muddy for clean runs, get to third gate, you know the pair of 5 bar gates, Grant or Charlie opened the right hand gate, CT wondered which way they wanted to go and said we usually take the left hand gate, no the others said you must be mistaken, it was the right hand gate; so CT thought he would go with the flow and see where it lead to..once through the gate and after a moment of looking ahead the others realised their mistake and agreed the left hand gate was the one, especially as it has the blue bridleway sign attached...! Up the hill through the stream crossing, where Grant promptly felt right into the water for a right soaking (justice for the earlier splashing some think). Now it was raining steady, shelter behing a wall for some fine flapjack from Charlie, now a quick head down HP out of the wind, quick peddle down the lanes, back to the cars for home, a wash and to dry out. Next ride Elterwater, park on the common.

18th November 2011 - Haverthwaite

5 met up near the Anglers Arms, Haverthwaite; Grant, Ian, Chris M, George and CT, although Chris M's bike was less than a month old he was already on a second rear tyre due to a tear in the side wall. Usual route pretty much, head south over bridge and past the old glass works and along the River Leven to come out at Low Brow Edge, climb up tarmac hill to take the bridleway north to Canny Hill. Now the first part is often muddy and tonight was no exception, quite thick but actually rideable in a smooth steady way (at least for some of the sections) but it did gloop up the bikes and slow down or stop gear changes. Once down to the lanes cross over the 590 and head up Barrow Banks for the steady climb up Chapel House plantation, there were loads of pines needles and these then stuck to the mud already on the bikes! Re-group at the top and try to shed some mud to enjoy the technical descent, it was a tad slippy all the way down! Down the lanes to Newby Bridge over to Finsthwaite where we were corrected after going the wrong way! and onwards to the refurbished bridleway down Wintering Park, back along the lanes and home for food and a bike clean. Next ride Kentmere.

10th November 2011 - Lowick for Parkamoor

George, Neil, Ian, Chris M, Grant, Charlie and CT met up at the Red Lion, Lowick and headed to Nibthwaite Grange and the warm up hill climb of Bletherbarrow Lane to get the descent to Ickenthwaite, this was great with many puddles to splash through, race around and get stuck in, the descent was excellant with a few tricky sections and the river bed type channel near the end requiring quick decisions and reflexes! All down safely, then along Corker land the up through Grizedale to join the bridleway up to Parkamoor, this involves some steady climbing, walking and good bike handling, once at the top just endure some more puddles (some deep!) to get to the start of the Parkamor descent down to Nibthwaite. Just remember to watch for the 4x4 tracks and not too get stuck in the ruts, there were views of Conistion water in the moon light and the rocky sections are always a test, try not to dab! after the mid-rocky tester comes the fast blast down to Nibthwaite, re-group and spin along the lanes back to the cars. A great mild evening, the pub was packed with musicians, but we headed home for a wash down. Next ride is Haverthwaite.

3rd November 2011 - Far Sawrey

5 met up, Ian, Neil, Jamie, Chris M and CT. Neil had come over on the ferry and so was keen to get back by 9pm (but I am sure some kind sole would have given him a lift, at least to Kendal!) Chris M was sporting a new bike and was keen to give it a good test. So we headed up the track to get the descent down to the lake, which was a bit loose and slippy in places, but it's a great ride down the hill, re-group at the bottom cycle along the lake side and head up to Scab Moss, here we came across some muddy sections and Chris M had his first puncture, we just thought it was the gloopy mud effect, anyway it turned out to be a shard of metal probably picked up on the road. Quick flapjack break (see new recipe on recipe blog) and once tyre back on head up to Hollin Band Plantation, up and over, past Moss Eccles Tarn and blast down to the cars. Neil was back in time for the ferry (or at least we didn't hear from him again...?) Chris M shot off to clean his bike and the rest went into the pub, now called the Cookoo Brow Inn, to see what makeover they have done, basically the stables are still there but there is one central bar, which was very quiet, i.e. 3 mountain bikers drinking beer and eating crisps. Although it was near to the 5th November there was no sign of fireworks, we'll have to wait for the weekend. Next ride is Lowick

27th October 2011 - Barbon

The odd shower may have put off some...? but George, Charlie, Jamie, Grant and CT met up in Barbon for the usual route up hill and down dale. So what is the usual RADs start to a ride...yes up hill start just to test the gears, never mind the legs, over the cattle grid, right down the lane and look for the bridleway on the left. Once found select a suitable gear...1st! and attempt the first climb, it was a little damp so very tricky and no clean runs. After the level bridleway up the lane, for a re-group and chat, George took off his rain jacket....so the rain started! take the left bridleway for about 1km uphill, steady away you'll get a rest at the gate and don't forget to switch the lock off the forks, at least I remembered 50 ft from the gate! Next section felt like riding a flat tyre in treacle, then it burned foggy, great for head lamps! Over the downhill section in the fog, I followed George and Charlie and hardly knew which section I was on until the gate. Down the lane to the downhill, damp rocky, watch out for the trenches and try to keep your feet on the peddles, when I shouted to Grant, he said he couldn't talk as he was concentrating. After the right and left 'S' bend, keep on trying, albeit I jumped off at one point (safest option before being thrown off). Re-group at the lane, over the bridge, down through the tree run and out onto Barbon hill climb. Here 3 of us lined up for a gravity race, Grant, Jamie and CT lined up while George and Charlie counted down 3..2..1..GO...!, JB got a jump start so CT had to draught behind his wheel get some speed and overtake, then JB saw a rabbit and slowed down! CT didn't see it with his lights and was back in the lead heading for the corner, but now needed to let JB back to see with his LED light! JB overtook and made the corner whilst CT overshot and ran on the grass, hearing Grant chuckling in the background! All back safely, but no time for the pub. Next ride is Far Sawry, park near the pub and we'll watch out for pre-fireworks.

20th October 2011 - Troutbeck

4 of us gathered in the Troutbeck lay-by, Neil, Grant, Chris M and CT, Grant turned up in a garage Corsa due to being hit by a white van in Blackpool earlier in the week, so don't buy a used Toyota off Grant! Fairly usual route, up lanes along to Garburn, down to road left along road side narrow track, pull thorn out of tyre hearing a hiss of air and hoping the tubeless gunk will work! continue along to the field descent, watch out sheep, over river, up the testing singletrack and pause on road, while CT put some air in tyre. Had a chat with a couple of neighbours and were offered drinks, declined all except Chris M who downed a swift pint (something to do with forgetting his bladder!). Continue route and this time we went down Mirk and up Wain, the downhill was a blast and the climb back up was steady but doable. Up the testing link onto Robin Lane, well done to Chris M and down via the church. Fairly quick and steady ride. Next ride is Barbon.

13th October 2011 - Elterwater - Tilberthwaite

Last week 4 now 3, Jamie, Ian and CT met up on the common and headed over to Dale end via the quarry, then the lane to Bridge end and the climb up and over to High Tilberthwaite, as usual good tests between the gates. There was a slight breeze but it was a very calm night and you got warmed up throughout the ride. Onward to Hodge Close, up the slate porcelain path, where JB did a spot of pruning to clear the path and we watched a tiny brown frog hop around the leaves trying to keep camouflaged. The we headed up to the NT plantation for the quick descent then along the road to pick up the river side track to end the ride. Next ride is Troutbeck, park in layby near church by beck. PS: Picture quiz can you guess what it is yet...?

6th October 2011 - Winster

4 met up for a blustery ride, I'm sure Winnie-the-Pooh would have enjoyed it; is was not too wet in the end it was just showers. Charlie, George, Ian and CT were the all weather folk, Ian and George had long winter trousers, Charlie and CT 3/4 but at least shorts, just needed to remember long gloves, buffs, winter boots, wool socks (just ask Charlie she remembered at least one of these..!) Usual route off down the lane, over the ford, up hill, down to tarn, no deviation tonight straight to the road, here we went straight over and then down the lane before Charlie produced Blondie cake, V.good. As Ian ended up with only one light he headed back to the cars and we carried on to take the bridleway above Crag Lane called Bow Mabble Breast, this one now has a mini-tarn on the right hand side as you get near the top of the hill, with plenty of ducks splashing away! The grassy descent was slippy, but OK and the lane steep and long or so it seemed, these dark nights reminding us of winter...! Up to the lane blast along the top track after some positioning amongst ourselves for who would get to the puddles first and test the depth, George won. Hammer down the track and back along the road, back by 8.30pm, the moon was out but where was everyone else...? Next ride is Elterwater, park on the common.

29th September 2011 - Selside for Borrowdale

7 made it to the A6 rendezvous point, some confusion to the exact spot but we all made it in the end, Charlie, George, Grant, Chris M, Joel, Jamie and CT. There was a little discussion on exact route but in the end it was the anti-clockwise route, incorporating the tarmac climb to the Whinfell mast and back through Borrowdale valley. We started by dropping down the bridleway opposite Forest Hall, with George doing a great navigation job to get us across the beck and onto the lane, now a nice warm up ride before the mast ascent! We managed to get up the climb without lights; a break-away group went out in front with a little in-fighting, Granto trying to foul CT at a cattle grid, but 5 stayed away until the top. At the top it was decidedly gloomy and time for food, but where was JP, as he did not have his lights on we could not see that he had fallen behind, but he did emerge from the darkness, just a little shocked by the 10+ minute first gear climb! After a re-group now it was time for lights, the bridleway off the fell was fairly wet and muddy in places, ride lightly to keep those wheels turning, all made it down, turn left onto the track and along the valley bottom, approaching Low Borrowdale and Chris M had a slow puncture, which turned into a slow tyre change, was it a thorn or a pinch, Murphy's law says you'll only find out AFTER you have put your spare tube back in!! At the farmhouse there were a few folk having a party, we continued on past High Borrowdale and while stopped at a gate, we all turned our lights off to revel in the darkness, in this valley there are no visible artificial lights, the stars were clear along with the aircraft, this is a wonderful spot on a barmy summer-esk evening. Back on bikes riding through puddles, last hill to the road, take first left and blast down the track, only to find a group of ponies trying to get to the gate at the same time as us, probably thought we were UFOs, navigate though the wild-life, right onto the track, up the lane fighting off the night fire-fly trying to eat us and cross over to another bridleway below jungle cafe caravan place and ride back to the cars. Overall a warm mud splattered evening ride. Next ride is Winster, park near the church.

22nd September 2011 - Gilpin Inn

7 met up for the last official 'summer' ride and a meal at the Inn for afters, Charlie, Chris M, George, Joel, Grant, Jamie and CT rode the usual route around Yewbarrow. At the top of Yewbarrow by the gate, just when it is getting dusky, we met 2 other bikers and asked if they wanted to team up for a little circuit, they were initially keen, but dropped off the pace and retreated. We continued our route and split the group with a de-tour through the trees, at the end there is a descent involving a very steep track with opposite camber and it's a really good test to stay on your bike, so well done to those who did and good luck next time to those who didn't!, back down the old road in peloton style, passing the two guys getting into their car, quick chat then back for a quick change and in for food; apparently the Inn owners are changing on Monday so we'll have to see what the menu is like next time. Next ride is a winter one (so lights!) and we are going to start up the A6 north of Kendal past the old Plough Inn at Selside, park near Bannisdale Bridge, before forest hall on the old road (grid ref: 3545,5013 on Kendal OS explorer 07).

16th September 2011 - Ings for Garburn

6 met up for a little ride out and some supper later; Charlie, Grant, Neil, George, Jamie and CT, usual Garburn route from Ings, nice warm up in the sunshine, views down the valley (see photos), uphill seemed rockier than usual or just playing on the mind. We met one walker on the way up and then 2 bikers just over the top, although they were separated by about 5 minutes! Rocky descent was tricky as CT went over the first rock section he found NH, GA and CSC walking and wondered what was up.....nout, so onward just keep some momentum and watch those BIG rocks. Down to the bottom all survived, turn right past Kentmere and up to 3 rivers, on the way up we pasted half a dozen riders , some with lights and Heather amongst them, then over the top heading to 3 rivers we passed another group with their lights on, M6 tonight! Now head along and down the fast track to Ings, the last bit of bridleway is really fast, enjoy. Back about 8.30 so time for food, savoury bread and butter, potted shrinks, fish and chips or just chips. A grand end to a great Summer blue sky day. Next ride is from Gilpin, food again.

8th September 2011 - Elterwater - Rydal

6 met up on the common, Neil, Chris M, Joel, Grant, Jamie and CT, the weather was holding, but good advice to wear waterproof shorts for all the puddles, left slightly late (oops sorry) head up the hill to Red Bank, down past the waters and back up to the caves, CT nearly missed the right hand track and baulked Chris M, then Neil, then Joel, oops sorry again! Heading towards the caves and halfway up JP had a puncture, quick fix and onward with a little play time near the caves, down to the tarn and along to the under Loughrigg road, BUT this time turn left and onto the main A591 road left again and head along to White Moss, take a right hand track before the car parks upto the coffin road. The track is steep especially after the first gate, just about rideable once you can get your foot on the pedals, turn right at the top and carefully work your way along, this is a little testing in places especialy under the dark trees. At one point there was stone over a ditch, but in the gloom the corner was broken and this sent JP head over heels, luckily no damage done and onward. Back to Ambleside, around the park and onto the steep road leading over Loughrigg. The top and descent was wet and at the bottom we went left towards Skelwith Bridge to take the track alongside the river which was a very nice end to the ride. Next ride is Ings and maybe some food...?

1st September 2011 - Barbon

6 made it out, Grant, Neil, Chris M, Jamie, Joel and CT, most had lights just in case. Usual route round and at the start 3 other MTBers set off, we caught them up at the cattle grid and they passed us again after the first off-road section, which as reasonably dry and rideable, along the level track after the first climb Chris M had 2 punctures, a thorn was eventually found. Now steady up the tarmac and on up the track, not too bad a climb if you go steady, up and over the next bit, through the muddy section of puddles, down the tarmac lane playing free wheel racing with Grant and his Cornish pasties did not help him go faster...! Turn left and enjoy the rocky descent, at the junction 3 went left and the other right, both are rocky technical in places so make your choice and ride. The ford was low but still deep in places, so one wet foot for CT! Lights on for the tree lined avenue and out onto the hill climb tarmac, another game of gravity racing, CT got away well but JB caught up at the corner with a better line choice, basically see who can freewheel fastest and if you can you freewheel all the way to the end of the lane? Back to the pub for beer and crisps. Next ride Elterwater, probably park on the common.

25th August 2011 - Ings for Garburn

4 made it out, George, Neil, Jamie and CT for a steady lap of Garburn in a clockwise direction, up the road to Dubbs, join Garburn and steady climbing up through the rock sections. Along the way we saw some Jacobs sheep, piebald (colored with white spots - see photo) and horns looking like goats. No dramas up over the top with a few discussions on films, planet of the apes old and new. All down safely, up to 3 rivers, but take the Ings track and back to the cars, it was dark early, lights are now required. Next ride 1st September is at Barbon, park near the church.

18th August 2011 - Borrowdale valley, Tebay ride

4 riders Jamie, George,Chris M and Paul met at the Tebay end of the Borrowdale valley and set off north towards the Shap road exit. It was threatening to rain but fortunately it was only a threat and the ride through the valley was reasonably dry apart from the usual large puddles. Just after the farm with the generator we met a herd of cows with calves which were congregated in front of the gate blocking our route. We all skirted left around the side of them and they fortunately moved away. On meeting the A6 we turned left and then took the bridleway on the left. On entering the field a herd of horses starting to approach the track and looked like they were going to try and out run us down the hill to our relief they stayed put and we enjoyed the fast descent.

We then carried on along the lanes opening and shutting gates to the base of the bridleway that leads up past the aerial masts. After the long slog up we were rewarded with some of Jamie's excellent cake before tackling the final decent. We all managed to find the correct route down the hill and then turning right on the valley track back to the cars.
Next ride is from Ings.

11th August 2011 - Hartsop for Ullswater shore ride

Now there had been a little rain and in the end just George, Jamie and CT turned up and headed on the anti-clockwise circuit via Boredale Hause and then Red Scar down into Martindale where the deer were roaming. The views were great from the top looking down the valley and seeing the top park of the lake, the cloud cover was lifting at this point. The rocks were damp so there were some tricky sections, just ask George who headed for a ditch he knew he shouldn't be in! It stayed mainly dry and we were back in the evening gloom, it's getter darker in the evenings! Next ride is Tebay for Borrowdale valley ride.

4th August 2011 - Hawkshead

I believe that the ride went around the NF in Grizedale, awaiting an update...watch this space. Neil, Charlie, Chris M, George and Jamie were there...I think. Next ride is Ullswater shore from Hartsop.

28th July 2011 - Sedbergh - The Calf

8 riders turned up at Sedbergh town car park, Charlie, Paul, George, Grant, Jamie, Chris M, Neil and CT. For a change we were going up The Calf, nice warm July evening, although the sun had been replaced by clouds and there was some mist on the tops. The route is to head along the lanes out of Sedbergh and take the 3rd bridleway at the Howgill cross-road junction, work your way long the fell, down to the river crossing and then start the climb, first part rideable, then some portage, pushing to you and me! This route has also been covered in various mtb mags and on one I found, it had a section on portage so maybe this was a sign....! The one thing to remember is the great views from the top and the even better descent all the way down. See photos for base camp at half way point! OK so there was mist rolling in near the tops and it got cold, so jackets were the order of the day on top and for the ride down. Check your route off the Calf as you do not want to head north for Calderdale as this is a long ride for an evening, so keep heading east and head down towards Winder, but take the single-track to the left and ENJOY! Details; 10.66 miles, max 24.93mph (at least on Neils old bike), ave speed 4 mph !! The Calf trig point is at 676m so not too bad for an evening ride, Howgill lane at the bottom by the farm is around 200m, so 476m descent. All survived! Next ride is Hawkshead.

21st July 2011 - Askham for High Street

5 met up at Askham, Charlie, Grant, Jamie, and the Chris's; Grant had a new bling gold Hope evo 2 wheel...but it was not made up and still in a box, so he had to make do with the old lop-sided one for now. Head south out of Askham, thru Helton, then tee off right for Cockle Hill and the bridleway up onto Loadpot hill, steady away, even though a little damp, grip was OK for a steady climb, just watch out for sheep ticks! Once at the top of loadpot you get onto the High Street, great views (see pics). From here it's down the high street, detour off to Arthurs pike and follow the track downhill, this gets very fast, if a little lumpy to start, all we could hear was Grant doing his jester impression! Past the cockpit and keep going (mostly) downhill to Askham. This ride gives great descents, after a little climbing to start and great views around. Next ride Sedbergh.

14th July 2011 - Elterwater

We parked on the common as there is still some drainage water works in Elterwater village car parks and so we will leave the parking as free as possible for the pub goers. This day as also a big mountain stage in the Tour De France (TdF), a couple of folk managed to watch part of the live action before our ride out. So if we continue with the TdF theme the riders will be described in their possible tour twins (very loosly no offence!!); first the gold medalist Sanchez, next Cancellara (powerhouse), then senior domestique Jens Voigt, then Leipheimer (another long termer) and finally Jonny Hoogerland (part time mountain climber), you should be able to work it out otherwise ask CSC, JB, NH, GT or CT. Rumor had it Jens wanted another epic, although he was knackered after watching the tour all day, so CSC devised a figure of eight route; up the first hill to Dale End for the warm up! then Hodge close past Brian's house, up and over to Iron Keld, at the top we stopped for some Blondie cakes, cheers CSC, then along came 5 other riders, they set off before us and we rode down taking a couple of mini detours along sheep tracks. Down to the road turn left back via the woods (not quite cleaning the climbs!) head to Tilberthwaite via the play area and then climb up, another good tester, down to the ford, up the lane to repeat start and bomb down the rocky route home. Maybe we should add some KoM and sprint points to our riders...., letters to the editor? Next ride is Askham, park by the swimming pool.

7th July 2011 - Keswick - Latrigg

6 met up near Briar Rigg, George, Grant, Chris M, Paul, Neil and CT, Grant was trying to ride his knackered wheel with loads of play, people kept asking if it needed tightening up and Grant said it was! Anyway when riding the centrifugal forces kept it straight, at least as long as Grant was peddling. So the start was straight UP the Cumbrian Way, this is first gear and not the best warm up! Hang a right down Whinny Brow and along the river for the old railway route,(watch out for the odd steps), this is a very nice route and I love those bridges, just like Madison County. Head out to Threkeld, waiting for the usual shouts warning of 'cars' only this time it was 'bus', which are very big on narrow lanes. Up the lanes past teh Blencathra centre, re-group, light snacks, have a quick test on Georges bike and yes that saddle is hard. Now head along Blease Fell until the end of the valley, here they have re-laid the bridleway at the end, so we took the challenging option and went left. Now head back along the other side of the valley and watch out for Lonsdale Crags. Re-group at the end and take some photos, through the gate, Grant, George and Chris M were off, next Neil, then Paul, CT took up the rear, but this is a great descent approx 50m height loss over 1km and is fast, so CT caught up with the group and managed to squeeze past at the Whit Beck crossing. Now onto Latrigg for the view and to see some guys flying a large kite, what a great view, sunset over Keswick and a clear view of Skiddaw, any takers for a quick ride up.....No! Now back for the fast downhill, very enjoyable if some burning brakes smell! Next week it's Elterwater, wonder if Neil has any extra route choices......?

30th June 2011 - Lowick Bridge

George, Neil, Paul, Chris M, Jamie and CT met up by the Red Lion, the tractors were out in the evening light cutting and collecting fields of hey, so no parking near field gates! Head west out to Kiln bank, over to Tottlebank, regroup at the open road, play a little on some rocks cross over and continue on the bridleway, Jamie had another route choice and CT and Neil followed...meaning a little climb, then an undulating ridge ride looking for the exit route, drop down to the right fast singletrack, with one big step! meet up at the bottom and watch a mini-JCB telehandler being driven up the fell road by a youth wearing a Dickie bow! Down the road, right up first part of climb but take first left, some folk wanted to keep climbing...but the left route is nice singletrack, cross river through wood, up lane and climb up Yew Bank stop at top for view, what an evening sunshine, mountain views, brilliant! Back down the track and look for the bridleway, all covered in bracken...so we missed the normal turn and messed around for a few minutes, but OK in the end, down rock step, over stream then get passed by 5 moto-cross bikes, head left for testing climb, it is steep! continue over Cockenskell, blast down the final descent and back via the lanes, only 9pm...early bath! Next ride Keswick

23rd June 2011 - Ribblehead mid-summer ride

This is becoming a tradition for mid-June, park up near Ribblehead and head off for a few ups and downs. The day had started with rain, but the evening stayed dry, although there was much water in the brooks, streams and especially the first downhill towards dentdale. The magnificent seven started out, Charlie, Neil, Jamie, Chris M, George, Grant and CT for the route refer to http://www.sportstracklive.com/track/map#NeilH/Mountain-Biking/RADS/240892/full , roughly 21-22 miles, 3.5 hours, back in daylight and caught the setting sun. There are basically 3 hills to get over, 3 climbs and 3 descents, so great downhills, albeit the first one had us heading into the sun with water running off the fells and causing 'snow blindness' so watch out on the descents, we had to overtake a quad bike as well! The rocky descent gets faster towards the end so watch out for the corner. Now down to the road, eat some food and enjoy the lanes through Cowgill. Until the next hill climb, steady away, if you get to the gate first you get to stop and rest if not keep going, Charlie got the first gate, Grants tactics meant he got the next and a rest, then CT got the third one after 10 minute climb in 1st and 2nd gear, still 2 more gate to the top, Neil came through in front, then Charlie and Grant; Charlie made the next gate so Grant, Chris M and CT 'raced' to the top gate, at least as fast as you can in 2nd gear! Now a food stop and look down on the valley with sunlight shining. Now a little work over the fell and meet up with the gravel section of bridleway, this is fast downhill with stones for little jump-offs, but you have to watch the last corner as it can creep up on you, just look out for the tyre marks from locked up brakes of the guy in front, JB! Chris M decided he had to go and headed back to the cars, that left six to cross over the road and head up to the Cam High Road, the climb is hard at first but eases to a steady pace, cross a few water splashes and work your way up the fell, near the top we stop for food and discuss the merits of training with RADs when entering Bike 'O' world cup events! see photo (ref: http://eventor.orientering.se/Events/ResultList?eventId=1701&groupBy=EventClass and http://www.bmbo.org.uk/news/article.php?news_id=123). Onward to the top and to get onto the Cam High Road, this involves some peddling and as the water was standing in the ruts either side, the centre line looked best but you had to avoid all the rocks. After a while and a couple of gates the ride starts to get the full benefit of gravity, Charlie was out front, followed by CT and George, then Neil, Grant and Jamie; after a while Gravity really got going and Jamie managed to get past CT for the final section, in the dusky light this was fun! Back on the road for a warm down to the cars, back just after 10pm, grab some food from the cars, inspect some Gold/Silver World Cup MTB-O event 2011 and go home. Next ride The Red Lion, Lowick.

16th June 2011 - Broughton forest - Walna Scar road

This is a great ride, 4 made it to Hummer Lane for some mental stimulation, not sure that's how it feels when riding UP the Walna Scar Road, but it's a worthwhile challenge. Neil parked at the bottom of the hill and so had the first road section of uphill with cold legs, but he was ready for the climb thereafter! Paul, Jamie and CT parked by the forest entrance. Set off about 6,45, and first down through the forest, some slippy mud and roots, then a little climb up and over the fell, nice stuff to start, not get into climbing mode and start on the fire road, nice and steady, you can go up either side for a while we choose the right side, up to the gate and try to cross the wooden bridge, which is handlebar width +5mm so NO room for error! Now up some testing boggy and rocky sections and onto the plateau, here we go right but this is boggy, so next time we must try going left as this looks like there is a route. From here to the old slate huts is tricky but fun. At the slate huts pause for snacks and thought, is it best to turn off the brain or concentrate hard...now its' 8pm we set off up the track, this is graded but very steep, i.e. it is first gear all the way and you have to watch out for rocks jumping out in front of you to put you off! OK so perhaps memory playing tricks! Basically you have to work hard and after 12-15 minutes of hard 1st gear climbing of the edge of your seat and edge of traction, you loose concentration and stumble, well done Jamie cleaned it, the rest did not make the top corner and needed a dab. But the views were good from the top (see photos) and you could see Sellafield on the horizon. At the top eat some food, don a jacket and start the descent, suspension back on first and enjoy...Jamie was doing well when he tried to ride over some lichen (its slippy) and he came a cropper, just a bit of blood. Continue down and enjoy the rocks, after the bridge we had some play-time sessioning some chutes, JB had puncture no#1, down a bit more looking for the best lines, now head right and past the water falls, JB puncture no#2, anyone got a 29er tube (where was Grant when you need him?) so 26" tube went in and it worked. Down to the road and we find Neils car, we played 'pick shortest straw' (grass), nobody won (it was rigged) and there was no prize! so we 3 had to ride up the last section, the singletrack road takes about 10 minutes and we were rewarded with an owl flying off a wall. Back 9.40pm. No pub. Next ride is mid-summer meet at Ribblehead layby after pub.

9th June 2011 - Winster

Good ride tonight, George on his new bike - Marin Mount Vision - although he didn't get to ride it all the way, as Chris had a go and also Georges younger son. Neil and jamie were also there. We did the ford, Podnot Tarn, Winster loop first and then up Green Lane, to do the north loop clockwise, it was still early, so did the ford climb and loop again, some of us found a off road bonus loop just after the tarn. Back to the cars by 9, so an early finish and about half the distance of last week!
Route guide map at http://www.sportstracklive.com/track/map#NeilH/Mountain-Biking/Winster/RADS/224147/full
Thanks to Neil for the update, next ride Walna Scar, park Broughton Forest entrance off Hummer lane.

2nd June 2011 - Elterwater plus extra loop

Well this turned into an epic, what a day, a 22 degC welcome to the lakes and a great place for a ride after work, just don't forget your energy bars, Neil turned up to lead, v'good effort after being bed-bound with a bug at the weekend (not a hangover either!), Charlie, Grant, Jamie and CT made it as well, we parked on the common car park to let the pub goers use the pay & display. So what route choice, straight into a climb up to Dale End, down to the ford, left to Stang End and up High Arnside, head right to Tarn Hows; along the way pick up some discarded sunglass's !? then take the path to the left of the toilet block and head downhill on the permitted track, apparently this is about 1 mile of downhill and you end up at Monk Consiton. Now we ventured into the north west end of Grizedale, stop to admire the views, snack on pretzels and head into Monk Coniston Moor and we trekked round the fire road to find some tracks used on some previous Grizedale challenges, these sections of singletrack are steep but great to ride. Stop for more snacks, hand out energy bars and start the route back which involves the descent back to Landhead, this is great for racing along, what another great downhill! Now down the road and up Great Intake to get to High Tilberthwaite, back to the ford and the dash for the cars. A great ride, just over 3 hours, 22 odd miles, 3 owls flying by the tracks and a load on energy bars! next week a gentle bash around Winster.

26th May 2011 - Satterthwaite, Grizedale

Some folk were put off by the rain, some were recovering from the weekend before, but 3 met up, Neil, George and CT; at the lay-by there were other cars, so other riders were out as well. There was some drizzle so water-proofs to start. We started with 'Breasty Haw' a good climb to warm up and then take goretex off! Usual route up and over to Moor Top, then down the NF section to the visitors centre, note that there have been some changes along the way (see photo, this rock garden can take you by surprise, but big fun!) and along the last part just before you drop into the centre there are some jumps! Along the way near to one footpath crossing we saw a chap dressed head to toe in camo gear, I say we saw him as George nearly missed him, thought he was a tree! From the visitor centre take the steady climb up the hill, a brief rest at the top but the midges were biting so no delay, carry on up NF, straight over at next junction, left at tank tracks and enjoy the downhill section, albeit a little slippy in the wet but always a challenge. No need for lights, just midge repellent! No pub stop, next ride is from Elterwater, with extra loop.

19th May 2011 - Keswick for Borrowdale Bash...

5 turned up for a lap of Derwent water, locally known as the 'Borrowdale Bash', Neil, Charlie, George, CT and Max met up at the town centre car park, handy for chips later. After a few days of showers the weather looked promising and we set off for the clockwise route. Basically head towards Ashness Bridge, on the way picking up our first blood damage (1 nil to Max) Charlie supplied a plaster to stop the blood flying around...!, still a very scenic spot (see photos, excuse the phone camera), great views (heard someone say they could nearly see the sea..... great imagination others said!), some cloud cover and patchy blue sky meant a great evening for a ride out. Up and over to Watendlath, up a testing climb, but worth a go, a quick pit stop for snacks now descend met up with 3 other MTBers doing the anticlockwise route and sessioning on the rock area known as Birkett Leap. Still a challenging rocky descent but worth it, then we took the right hand turn for the route through the trees, more challenging but doable if you keep going and pick your lines, unless you have your 6" play bike for the direct descents, hey Max! Normally you would now head up the Honister road, but time was pressing and so we tracked through Borrowdale to Grange and the climb up the side of Cat Bells and worked our way north and back to Keswick for chips. A great night for a circuit for Derwent water, Thanks Max for the company, we must do this again! Next ride Satterthwaite.

12th May 2011 - Sedburgh for Dent

5 turned out on this showery day, wondering what the weather may bring, Neil, Paul, George, Grant and CT. Route recorded by Neil check out http://www.sportstracklive.com/track/map#NeilH/Mountain-Biking/Sedbergh/RADS/191528/full ; 15 miles, back 9.45pm, no chips in Dent too cold and getting dark. Usual route, a little cold to start, warm up on the climb, keep jackets on for the lanes and take off for the climb up Gawthrop hill (and yes it can be done in middle ring!), stop and re-group at the gate, look at dark clouds, don rain coats, rain arrives, head up track, cold in wind but steady away, rain eases by top, keep going for second bridleway descent, it's another miles along the top. There were muddy puddles and rocks slippy when damp, a few times rear wheel slipped down a rock and pirouetted you across the track to much amusement of others. We arrived at the start of the descent, last time it was dark now in the evening light you could see how steep it was, Grant not looking forward and trying to see the place he fell off last time?! So onward, it's always tricky to start when on the brakes, down the grassy side or take the rocky path, as it was damp neither was an easy choice you just have to keep some momentum, not too much braking and keep an eye on the hollows. Much merriment was had and we made it to the gate, next section is as tricky and I warned to look out for the holly tree, if you could keep riding past it you were doing OK, I think George and Neil were first, then Paul hesitated as he saw holly, so a little dabbing was occurring, but the rocks are a real test, just keep going with momentum for balance, Neil made it all the way down nice and steady is the way. Now down the lanes and through Dent and back the way we came, Grant and Paul stopped at the farm gate and chatted with the farmer, we could hear laughter, not sure who's jokes were being told, surely not Grants...? Back to the cars and 3 folk went off in search of a pub, the others went home for food. Next ride Keswick

5th May 2011 - Hawkshead for Claiffe

7 turned out, Paul, Grant, George, Neil, Ian, Chris M & CT, it was fine rain to start with so Goretex applied, head to Colthouse, but not the snake bite alley route, instead up Colthouse plantation, daunting climb? not really it's steady but do-able. A bit sweaty on a warm damp evening so off with the jackets, up to the guide posts, straight over down the hill, re-group eats snacks, head up the tester climb, where Chris M took the right hand line and made it over the rock step, well done! Up over high moss and down past the tarns, keep left for Far Sawrey, on the way hammering down the track Neil took a little rock step, I saw this and thought Paul had taken it also and so went for the step...it was actually a jump and me on the only hardtail...still made it with a smile on my face, nice! Down the road past the pub turn left and up the climb to a reward of a descent to the lake, a bit slippy on smooth wet rocks but OK. Now head to base camp and back up to guide posts for the last descent in the darkening night. A really great night, damp yes but warm also, 3 made it to the pub, but they only had ONE packet of plain crisps left! Next ride Sedburgh.

28th April 2011 - Troutbeck

6 turned up near Troutbeck church, Charlie, CT, Neil, Grant, George and Jamie, we had to wait for JB as he had Grants bike, with a nice shiny new frame from Halfords to replace his old and cracked one! now it just needs bedding in, so off we headed up the Kirkstone road, past Limefitt and take the right for the Long Green Head section, past Limefitt and onto Longmire lane, left at the road and up Dubbs, Grants chainset was slipping and BB creaking, new frame but always stuff to upgrade! Upto Garburn and go left down the rocky section watch out for the sharp edges, back to Limefitt junction and JB has a puncture, quick change but it was very windy, continue down to the road. Left along the roadside track and look for the gate giving access to the bridelway down over the water crossings and upto Town End, at the gate Charlie went down first and cleared the track of sheep, the rest played the rolling down the hill race game...we all line up with back wheel against the gate, one foot in peddle (at bottom of stroke) and after a count of 1,2, 3 roll off and see who is fastest downhill; someone said the heaviest bike+rider would win, this was countered by the fact that the lightest would start quicker...so the line down is first on rocky 4x4 track, then take the right hand grassy bank and whip accross left (avoiding the hole in the track!) and pick up the next berm, or at least that's the plan. Check Neil was rolling his mini-cam, then 1...2...3...off...now maybe I'm the lightest as I was off first, it gets fast very quickly, use the terrain and berms (try not too brake!), still no one in front, watch for the hole, stay right to be safe and then feel that 29er shooting by on the left, JB had made the slingshot move work and was first through the gate! What fun you can have on a bike! Now a lap of Wain lane and then up Mirk lane, up the climb to Robin lane, chat with some locals resting at the seat (viewpoint), discuss the merits of takling The Bob Graham Round; the 72 mile, 27,000 foot circuit of 42 of the highest peaks in the English Lake District within 24 hours. Sounds like one hell of a mountain bike ride, if only... now back to the cars, taking the extra loop on the RHS before the post office. Next ride Hawkshead (maybe Claiffe).

21st April 2011 - Staveley for Kentmere

6 met up at Barley Bridge, including some old friends, Phil (once a year is enough) Meades and Lois (On a classic Orange E3, rigid with canti-brakes), along with Ian, George, Jamie and CT; everyone else was on holiday, out sunning themselves or resting? So we headed up 2 rivers down to Kentmere Hall and up Long Houses to finish down HP, a great classic especially in the dry conditions. Notes; Phil had a puncture but going up hill after the first stream crossing, so we all had a sit down in the evening sun; Lois went easy on any downhill, rocky section or water slash but still had a good time; CT managed to climb up long houses rocky bit with no dabs, Jamie just rode up! Back at the cars and time to say Aurevoir to Phil as he is soon to head off to Devon, warmer climate and all that, flatter hills....Next ride is Troutbeck park near church.

14th April 2011 - Gilpin Bridge

7 turned up eventually, but 5 started out, Chris M, Charlie, Neil, George and CT; Ian came later and did his own ride, Charlie said she saw his tyre tracks during our second lap? and Jamie turned up on a road bike and managed a few yards of the last bridleway! So usual route over the new bridge up the hill, round the lanes and along Yewbarrow, through the gate and onto the nice descent, only there were now large tyre tracks (they must be logging) so the first section was very muddy, tyres all clogged up making for testing conditions, just like MTB should be...? bit of a contrast to Scotland dry and dusty! anyway we made it down and had enough time to turn right and head along the road section to pick up the bridleway climb at Knot wood and onto Lawns wood, this is a steady testing climb, not too muddy but slippy rocks making off-road = off-road! Back at the top along Yewbarrow (groundhog day, don't make the same mistakes...) now back into the wood and this time follow the machine tyre tracks for a different route, steady though the trees, try to lose some mud off the tyres and at the end enjoy a very testing descent on loose stone down an adverse camber steep slope with trees everywhere, basically to keep control, go very slowly which means it's a good test of slow MTB control, and thrilling if you make it! Jamie was at the bottom and we all rode back on the lanes. Ian was waiting at Gilpin after doing his solo single circuit ride and so we all went into the Inn and had a meal, updated menu, very nice, we even talked about the BGB award of old and had to explain to Chris M who the previous winner was (if in doubt refer to the very early blog entries!). Next ride is Barley Bridge, Staveley.

7th April 2011 - secret rides...

This ride was so secret nobody could find out about it....! but RADs riders were out riding, admittedly one was in Ireland getting 80 miles in and another was in Majorca, but hey RADs keeps rolling on or off-road!
Actualy Neil did do a local ride "Last night I am proud to report that RADS maintained the tradition of a Thursday night ride, admittedly only one RADS rider did it, but hey it's quality that counts and not quantity.

Brief details of the route - I set off from Coniston on the road towards the Coppermines, onto the newish track alongside the A593 and onto High Tilberthwaite, down towards the ford and right before it up to Stang End, then up towards Hodge Close and turn to High Oxon Fell and Low Oxen Fell to get the descent through the wood at Tongue Intake Plantation, right at the bottom and right on the road to then go briefly onto the A593, up the climb to get to Iron Keld, cut through east of Tarn Hows, bonus loop to get onto the Golden Mile, to come out at the bottom of Hawkeshead Hill and back to Coniston.

To see the route check out this link to GPS of route - http://www.sportstracklive.com/track/map#NeilH/Mountain-Biking/Coniston/Biketreks-RADS/152956/full

It was a lovely clear night, and you may have been worried about me being out on my own at night. I was fortunate that although I was the only RADS rider I was not lonely, as I seemed to have 11 other riders around me, or maybe following me, or maybe I was following them, anyway one way or another the riders from the Biketreks Thursday night ride and I finished off doing the same ride, and also finished up having a drink in the same pub afterwards."

Next week we are at Gilpin Bridge Inn to ride and get a meal in.

Diary dates:
Sam Houghton Mountain Bike Challenge: Saturday 11th June, can enter as a team, pair or solo.

LE TOUR DE STAVELY 2011: A social road ride on Saturday 9th July from 3.30pm, come and join us.

31st March 2011 - Hawkshead

3 made it out to Hawkshead, Charlie, Neil and Chris M, no report received at time of print, but it is believed that they did some if not all of TNF trail and there were puddles! Next ride on Thursday 7th April is being determined and the week after will be the meal/ride, watch out for news?
Ride update by Neil "After waiting for more riders to arrive at Hawkshead, we three Charlie, Chris M and Neil, realised the ride was going to be a select group of just the three of us. With Charlie recovering from her injury gained at Mabie, and with her forthcoming training week in Majorca, she wanted a steady ride, which was fine with us all. The North Face Route was the choice, so we quickly warmed up on the climb up the bridleway to join the North Face Route. It was soon apparent that despite the evening being dry, the ride would be wet due to the deep puddles on many sections. We had no hold ups and at one point wondered if we might get round before we needed our lights, a combination of a cloudy sky and the late start meant we needed our lights on the long forest road section going north above Coniston. Along this section we encountered quite a number of lights coming towards us, it was about 6-8 mountain bikers going the other way, probably the Biketreks Thursday evening ride which had started from Blind Lane. On the fast final dark descent down the track to Hawkeshead, Neil had a slight moment when his front light lead unplugged, plunged into darkness, a rapid stop ensued.
To see the route check out this link to GPS of route - http://www.sportstracklive.com/track/map#NeilH/Mountain-Biking/Hawkeshead/146220/full

26th & 27th March 2011 - Scotland weekend tour

This is now becoming an annual tour of some of the 7 Stanes around Dalbeattie, 7 of us made it up for a stay in the chalets of Sandyhills at Barend holiday village. The route maps will be listed thanks to Neils HTC data logging, Paul had his as back up and Charlie had her Garmin just to make sure us boys did not go astray. We had no major incidents, but there was a lost wallet (albeit for 5-10 anxious minutes), a broken bike frame (hopefully Grant is getting his beloved Boardman rear triangle replaced under warranty), holes in sidewall of tyres (meaning a quick trip to Halfords for two new tyres) and frozen bacon (so we had it cooked up on the Monday morning and ate it cold later that day).
We did Drumlanrigg on Friday, whilst the area was covered in children doing orienteering, we did about 3 hours in the sun (no cafe or bike shop open until Easter) dry trails very good warm up to the weekend. Evening meal of chilli, v.good. Saturday we set off for Kirroughtree, where there was a British Heart Foundation charity event, we did the red and black runs just over 20 miles, hard but excellent singletrack, very flowing, dry and not busy for a sunny weekend. Evening curries were consumed, hardly any room for cheesecake! Sunday we can ride from base camp into Dalebattie forest trail, another sunny day, Neil managed the Terrible Twins and also the qualifier and The Slab, whilst we also met up with Max and Emily where Max was checking out different lines over some rocks, we just watched, it's amazing what you can do with a little suspension! Later in the afternoon 4 of us nipped over to Mabie to check out the route changes, short and sweet was the answer, although Charlie checked out a BO route and took a tumble over a very mean rock and we found her back at the van getting all tubigripped up, then later icing up the leg, elevation and compression seemed to help. Sunday evening and the traditional cooked breakfast mealk along with left over chilli, curry and anything else, but alas the sasuages and bacon were still frozen, we had enough anyway, so fry up in the morning! Monday clear the chalet and head out to Mabie, more sunshine and a great ride, but no cafe open, so home to recover. Grant bike frame made it through the whole weekend, Charlie leg also survived and we ate loads. Photos to follow.

17th March 2011 - Elterwater for Hodge Close

9 riders turned up, although there was traffic disruption/delays due to the Mad March period of road works and road closures! Anyway Charlie, Chris M, George, Neil, Ian, Jamie, Grant, Joel and CT met up at the temporary car park in the village (while some engineering works has closed the NT car park). To see the route check out http://www.sportstracklive.com/track/map#NeilH/Mountain-Biking/Elterwater/134156/full we set out around 7pm and did nearly 10 miles in 2 hours 10 mins. We took the route over to High Tilberthwaite, it is a good testing climb with boulder rock challenges and a rocky descent to enjoy. Then a little play at the playground and on to Hodge Close and up and over to the NT plantation downhill! The weather held off and actually gave us a very bright moon which added to the visibility. Back at the cars, no pub stop (pity) and some discussion on a route back as the evening road closures meant not easy route back via Ambleside, so it was a de-tour via Hawkshead! No scheduled ride this week the next ride is on 31st March from Hawkshead.

10th March 2011 - Staveley

6 met up at Barley Bridge, George, Paul, Chris M, Grant, Jamie and CT (Charlie was stocking up on Swiss chocolate and Neil was cleaning his keyboard, code for something?!) Any route around Kentmere valley was required and CT was doing an important consumer test on a 29er HT. So up road, right over bridge and tee off up the lane to the short bridleway up the field onto the top lane, work up to Staveley head cross, left and head towards Long Houses for the descent. Down to the road, right to Kendtmere, left before church and up to 3 rivers, only we did 2! Everything was going swimmingly, first river OK and then the downhill section with some narrow ruts, here Grant took a tumble, this is getting habit forming, back on bike gingerly down the hill, through second river and down last section of hammer time, Grant takes left route around the rocks, 29er rolls over smoothly, if only it was the right size! Back along the lanes no hassles. Paul had his tracker talking from his backpack so we'll see if we get a route chart. No pub stop, next ride Elterwater. Thanks to JB for bike preparation 29ers roll!

3rd March 2011 - Sedbergh for Dent

6 turned out, George, Jamie, Neil, Grant, Charlie and CT. The usual route made easier to refer to by following the following: http://www.sportstracklive.com/track/map#NeilH/Mountain-Biking/123194/full
Observations: we rode up 3421 ft and down 3464 ft but started at the same place???
Also we burnt 943 calories = chips, but there were non so crisps in the pub were scoffed, before the pub quiz came on and we left.
I also like the info page with the chart, it looks a nice steady climb and straight off the cliff type descent? well I'm sure it felt like that to Grant who took a tumble down the boulder field, there were some big ravines to fall down and did you spot the holly bush half way down ready to get you, we did so George, CT and JB all dabbed just to make sure of a safe route past. Very good ride, no pub stop but at 4DegC we just kept going to keep warm. Next ride is Staveley, park near Barley Bridge.