20th December 2012 - Ings

3 riders made it out in the wet, Ian, Paul and Charlie, a few other nearly made it out...but landed in the pub for the after ride meal! Apparently the ride was a bit of a swim and included a little circuit around High House, but did include fairly lights! In the pub Joel, Neil, George, Jamie and CT joined the others for a meal and a few even managed a pudding. Thanks to Paul for donating to air ambulance this year in lieu of sending cards. Next ride will be Thursday 3rd January 2013 let's say Barley Bridge.

13th December 2012 - Elterwater

5 turned out on this icy cold evening, Charlie, Jamie, Grant, George and CT; on the drive over it was hovering around -2 deg C with the gritters doing sterling work, Charlie forgot a wind proof so borrowed one off the team. CT was looking for Orion's belt as shooting stars were due to make a show, but the belt was not viable yet, maybe later. Set off down the lane past Britannia Inn to start with the steep climb as a warm up, a little bit of ice but generally very grippy and a good climb if a little testing so early in the warm up! Down the lanes, over the ford (bridge) and on to the playground, up the slate and onto Iron Keld, just watch out for ice patches all around and do NOT follow Charlie as she had ice tyres and was looking for ice, we kept forgetting not to follow her lead, as she was generally faster! Up iron Keld and at the top pause for snacks, cheers Charlie, and also we can now sight Orion's Belt and so stood around for a few minutes looking for shooting stars and yes they did make a show, all very poetic, but tooo cold so we continued on, down the ice track, but not too bad, back to Elterwater via a little bit more off-road. Not too long a ride but very cold, the cars said between -4 and -7 deg C, the drive home was cold and at Bretaholt roundabout my car did a 45 deg spin, not quite 180 but enough! Next ride is from Ings, early start 6pm for a ride and 8pm for a meal.

Friday 7th December 2012 - Whinlatter

OK so this is not strictly a Thursday night ride, but as the rain was very bad, a couple of us took Friday off, due to the better forecast and set off for Whinlatter. Grant set off early to get a ride in before his lunchtime appointment and Jamie and CT arrived mid-morning due to child responsibilities. The roads were a bit icy and traffic slow in places but we got to Thornthwaite  and parked at the bottom of the hill, apparently Jamie wanted to ride his newly built rear wheel in by riding up on tarmac; there was snow on the tops and an icy feel so layers were put on and we headed up, nice and steady. At least they had re-built the road so it was open, albeit lots of water running off it. Half way up the road the phone went off, it was Grant saying he's finished his ride and was off for breakfast! Head up to the visitor centre, chat to the cycle shop staff and head onto the red route after seeing all the Christmas trees for sale and some real live reindeer!! A few puddles on the route, then into the snow line fairly quickly, a couple of youths passed me, but I passed one at the hairpin bends as he could not take the turn in a clean line with his mega fork set-up; gradually work the way up, keeping an eye out for snow graffiti, good riding as not too icy, just some icy! Grippy enough with normal tyres, would be better with fresh rubber ;) enjoy the last swoopy descent before a coffee break at the cafe, then onto the south circuit, icy at the start then snowy, some great photo opportunity. Then to finish back down the road then tee off left for a mega descent straight back to the car, so that's why you park at the bottom! No rain and a great day. Next ride is Elterwater

29th November 2012 - Barbon

Sandside by day

Frozen mud by night

It was a cold and frosty eve' when 4 bikers met up at Barbon; George, Grant, Jamie and CT, apparently it had been sunny during the day and some folk had made use of daylight for a ride. The moon was out along with a friendly planet keeping it company, Jupiter I think, making a brighter evening ride. It was around freezing so a few layers and big gloves were required, although we did warm up nicely during the climbs. Whilst starting out it did occur to me that we should one day try this route in reverse just because we can and you never know what it may show up, worth doing more when it is frosty. Never the less we did the normal anti-clockwise route and along the road after the first cattle grid there was some ice, Grant found it whilst falling off! but he was OK, apparently it was good practice for later...;). Take a left and that tricky little first climb, but with the frozen rocks I actually cleaned the whole lot:) first time in ages, then along the bridleway we met 2 other riders, from Kirkby Lonsdale and I knew one of them so we had a chat, they had cycled over from KL and it was mud-fest. Onwards and upwards, road, then off-road, gears starting to freeze, so climbed up in third. Not too windy, ground firm but mud in places, keep going to the top gate, more ice, watch the ice along the track needs careful riding all the way along, down to road keep going, watch that wind-chill, now down to the common, more testing technical skills to keep out of the mud and off the ice, great fun! Down safely back to cars for flask coffee and cake. Some photos show earlier in the day and frozen mud on wheel. Next ride is Lowick. Oh no it isn't; a bit of a weather issue, Shap A6 closed, Kirkby Lonsdale A65 flooded, so perhaps stay in tonight we will re-schedule. Next week it's Elterwater.

22nd November 2012 - Farleton

Due to the weather we postponed the planned ride to Grizedale, but as I felt like a ride I went out later for a lap of Farleton. Not too wet, very little rain actually falling, but as I cycled from home the lanes were flooded in places as some tyre spray ;( at the end of the ride coming off the fell I met 5 other riders enjoying the mud after doing the old downhill section! On the way home it was god to have a head light as I could see the river at Wasset was overflowing onto the fields. Still nice to get out for a wee ride. Next ride is Barbon

15th November 2012 - Pelter Bridge, Rydal

4 turned up - Charlie, Jamie, Grant and CT - and parked at Pelter Bridge car park (NB; very dark no lights, so watch the pot-holes et al), we were heading for the coffin route, so cross the main road and head up Rydal Hall, left at the top, this route is steady to start with some technical challenges, tree roots, wall gaps and rocks, good stuff perhaps a tad tricky in the damp but warm conditions, virtually tropical for mid-November so no need to holiday abroad:). The route ends up at White Moss and you can get through to Red bank via a bridleway and one river bridge crossing, it looks like this route may have been and old route up red bank as it seems easier than the road, at least by bike. Then over to Elterwater and a quick lap of the quarry then back via the river route and back up and around Loughrigg by red bank, enjoy the descent back to the cars. Next ride is Satterthwaite for a route in Grizedale. Edited due to flood issues so Grizedale postponed to another date. Enjoy the Kendal Mountain Festival if you are going.

8th November 2012 - Staveley for Garburn

4 turned out for the start, George, Jamie, Joel and CT; Joel showing us his updated near wheel improvements to stop his sliding drop-outs from ...sliding! All down to Jim's extra bolts (subsidiary company to Jim's boat design, Jim's workshop, Jim's cafe...available at a store near you!), what could possibly go wrong...so it was a nice night with a few stars out, approx 8-9 deg C at the cars. So head up Browfoot lane to go over Mickle Moss and one river to Kentmere then on and over Garburn, after the tarmac climb JP had some problem which turned out to be a broken rear derailleur pulley plates guide section, so we started to look at bodging up a repair, whilst looking at this we found a twisted link in the chain, so pliers out and straighten this first (notice when I say 'we' I mean JB ;)) now with chain straight Joel gives it another go and makes it a few hundred meters before throwing in the towel so to speak, so now we are down to 3, what is it with RADs these days folks 'n bikes not making the whole ride or was it 'cause JP did not fancy Garburn? 
Anyhow we continued on, down Kentmere where we passed 3 other mtbers (maybe they started as a four?) and then onto Garburn with a little walking. There was some wind in places but it did not seem cold, some water on the ground but generally a great night to be out, the first section of bridleway out of Kentmere heading up Crabtree Brow was actually rideable even with a 4x4 taking most of the track up! So upwards steady away, stop at the top gate and again no real wind (around 5 deg C but felt fine) so time for Jamie's real flapjack muesli bar thingie with treacle, very good grub, top marks! 
Over the top and now for the descent just WATCH OUT for the gullies formed by the rain, as sometimes with the bike lights these appear as shadows and you may think they are just pools of dark water where as in some case they are ravines, but on the plus side these changing environments make for interesting riding to hone your skills;). So back down Dubbs blast and the back via High Borrans and 3 rivers just to try and get some mud off, back to cars for 10pm, so 3 off hours out very good ride, so good Jamie's head light had decided to 'rest' but then he had ridden out from Kendal. Next ride is from Rydal, park at Pelter Bridge car park

Sunday 4th November 2012 - Coniston-Grizedale

Not really a RADs group ride but a ride along the east shore of Consiton and then back up and over Lawson park and Parkamoor for descent down to Nibthwaite on a crisp cold but sunny morning and photos of the snow covering on Consiton old man. Start from the south east side of the lake and ride steady up the shore road and take the bridleway towards Lawson park opposite low bank ground for a steady climb and eventually come out onto the park for the views of Coniston, before heading south west back to the lake, for the great descent, note there was more water than normal on the tracks and pooling in the ruts and if you remember near the bottom there is a slow left hand bend at the bottom of a bit of track and this collects water, this time it was a foot deep and caught me out in top gear! but I managed to change gear while cycling IN the water :). Only saw 2 mountain bikers on the tops and a load more road bikes along the shore road on the way back and some divers doing some cold water safety training at kayak beach. See photos for snow.

1st November 2012 - Troutbeck

Charlie, George, Grant and CT met up at the lay-by near the church, when we set off 3 other mtber's turned up, but for a different ride. We did the usual up Garburn (half way) via Limefitt, turn right and enjoy descent down Dubbs, there was some confusion on route choice but all sorted by democratic discussion, "this way, no that way, this way......" then back up for the last section down Garburn, a tad slippy but rideable just watch those water bars. Then along the road, down the field and watch out for the gullies forming in the middle of the track and also the big bomb-hole which Grant thought I was heading into whilst following Georges tyre tracks, but managed to steer past it in one piece (better than last time!). Up hill and left along lanes to Mirk and Wain, here George had a couple of malfunctions, first mudguard interfering with tyre, second chain broke! Charlie was just ahead leading off and we shouted to stop (but she didn't), anyway bent chain was tricky to fix i.e. it wouldn't easily and eventually George opted to roll back to the cars, as it was raining and we wos only getting wetter; Grant gallantly decided to help him back, so they took an early bath at half time! I continued on and enjoyed the descent and eventually found Charlie near the bottom of the track and we continued up Mirk, the first section was actually rideable, until a branch had to be moved from the track, the big test was too loose after the recent rains, so we walked that bit, then rode the rest. No a bad short-ish ride, wet but not cold, if you kept moving. No pub off home for hot bath/shr. Next ride Staveley, Barley Bridge.

25th October 2012 - Ribblehead for Newby Head and Cam High Road

Well 5 turned up at Ribblehead junction just as the weather/wind chill turned cold... the starry sky may have been a clue! George, Charlie, Grant, Jamie and CT set off with lots of wind proof layers with a view perhaps that a top layer may come off once warmed up, but the head wind saw that this did not happen and shorts (or short finger gloves!) were pretty cold. Head north along the road for a few km warm up, or at least try and chain gang together and make progress into the head wind, then tee off left onto part of the dale way and Black Rake Road (which is a track) battle with the wind and tussocks up to the road, turn right down to Newby Head Gate and over the main road to head up the Ribble way onto the Cam High Road, now it was sleet/rain/mist, my bloody glasses were useless visibility was suffering. Now it is steady climb up, just watch the off rocky bit and the wind factor, at one point Charlie followed the 29er gang and I followed Charlie and then caught her as she fell off due to wind rock interference! Eventually re-group at the top gate and stop for one of Charlie excellent ginger cookies, well done! Now zip up all the clothes and start the descent, which is about 3 miles in total and mostly downhill, just watch out for gullies and cobbles which are interesting at any speed. Charlie also had to deal with a dying rear mech which had lost it's spring, as she really had to keep peddling to keep tension. Gayle beck at the bottom was dry and so we could ride through, then onto the road for a little wind assisted ride back to the cars. It was an introduction to winter but a great ride, Grant even wanted to do it again....another day, I think last time we did it was at the end of a long summer ride and this short route kept you fresh. No pub but home for a warm up. Next ride Troutbeck, park in lay-by near church.

18th October 2012 - Hawkshead for Claiffe

It was a warm evening (for October anyway, although Charlie had her winter boots on!) and 4 met up at the school car park, Neil, CT, Charlie and her nephew, Graham, who was up for a few days from Norfolk; so Charlie dragged him out for a few hills, kindly lending him her old training Santa Cruz (the heavy one) whilst she gallantly rode her race bike (weighing nothing but a feather apparently ;)). So Claiffe it was, along the lanes and up the downhill, it is actually not bad at all and virtually all rideable in a oner, obviously we stayed together as a group to support Charlie in case her feather bike blew away. On the ride up CT mentioned that the international space station, ISS, may be visible in the south west at 7.05pm for 4 minutes, but alas the clouds were in the way, maybe next time. check out web site here http://spaceflight1.nasa.gov/realdata/sightings/cities/view.cgi?country=United_Kingdom&region=England&city=Kendal

Grizedale in daylight (Saturday October 20th!) blue sky:)

Basically we did the guide posts, extra loop bit, up and over past the tarns, Far Sawrey down to the lake shore, and here the track along the lake is virtually tarmac like, so we shall see what the weather will do, but it looks like they have installed good water pipes for drainage, then up past base camp and back to the guide posts for the downhill finish. Neil was slowing at this point but he had already ridden a 20 mile warm up earlier in the day, bravo, we added about another 10 miles. Charlie was heading off to Ambleside in search of chips, curry or anything to eat. Next ride Ribblehead for a bit of the Cam high road.

11th October 2012 - Troutbeck - Jenkins - Loughrigg

It was a tad damp, but still 3 folk turned out, Jamie, George and CT, we started off by climbing up the road and headed up Robin Lane and continued onto Jenkins Crag, the rocks were damp but we were soon in Ambleside and as it was still early we headed off for a lap of Loughrigg, at least we were warmed up for that climb. Descent was fine, round tarn, down the Terrace note that at the S bends the surface has been flattened and there are no burms to rail, so watch your speed, (route here http://m.gpsies.com/mapOnly.do?fileId=vksqbnbmxahpczud with assistance from Bike-Treks) rest of route is back along coffin route into Ambleside (avoiding main road as much as possible) but them we had to resort to going along main road, until we headded left to go up Wain Lane and roll back to cars. PS Jamie had some GREAT flapjack stuff...next ride from Hawkshead park at school.

4th October 2012 - Ings

So a quick lap of Kentmere, OK just 3 rivers in the end then hot foot to Watermill for grub, Charlie, Jamie, Grant, Neil and CT turned out, as did a load of other folk...who just wanted a meal, the front half of the pub was booked out for a function so table space was in short supply, thankfully making the right noises and folk left us some space. It was a tad damp under foot but otherwise a nice ride following some blue sky weather, apparently if was sunny in Kent and Devon as well. The 29er crew (2x) went for starters and main course whilst the rest were restrained but civilised:) If we'd have been sat by the fire we would have been asleep! Winter ride list to be confirmed, watch this space. Next ride Jenkins Crag from Troutbeck.

27th September 2012 - Lowick for Grizedale

George, Grant, Jamie and CT met up near the Red Lion, there was threat of damp-ness but in the end no need for Goretex. Head east into the forest, the first decent is great but some wet rock reduces hero moves! Into the forest via Moor Lane, Satterthwaite, actually not a bad climb, keep going steady and it is all rideable, we met some MTBers coming down, muttering it's a busy night, at least you can see lights now it's getting darker early. Once into Grizedale we headed up and over to Parkamoor to avoid the wet tank tracks and get onto Ian's home descent, along the way we toured a few fire roads to get to the best spot, but the descent is one of the best. No frogs this time but we did see a toad! No pub this time, but next week we'll have a meal at Ings after a ride, end of summer no less.

20th September 2012 - Elterwater

5 turned out on the common (inc' 3 hardtails), Joel, Grant, Neil, Jamie and CT, the weather was changeable but not fun waterproofs to start, i.e. the odd spot of rain. We headed north up the road and then over the beck up through the quarry, through the wood and down to Little Langdale right along the road and up the track to High Tilberthwaite, along here it started to rain, but it's still a good climbing test so steady away. At the top gate re-group for the descent which as it was wet caused a few 'moments' but all safely down and then Hodge Close and up to Iron Keld, still a bit damp! up and over the top and back via the river route, but watch out for frogs, what is it about being near this stretch of river but frogs abound and it was hard work trying to spot them before your tyres made any marks ;) we shouted a few warnings to each other but there must have been hundreds over the course of the ride and even one in the car park trying not to get run over. No photos as it's now getting murky dark quite soon. No chips as still raining and want to get home for a warm up.  
Next ride Red Lion, Lowick
Link to GPS route here: http://www.sportstracklive.com/track/map#NeilH/Mountain-Biking/Elterwater/779095/ just over 11 miles with 1700 ft climbing/descending.

13th September 2012 - Satterthwaite

Grizedale route

George, Joel, Neil, Charlie, Grant and CT met up in the usual lay-by south of Satterthwaite village for a mystery ride into Grizedale, it was a little cold and felt like rain may fall, so the usual discussions of what to wear, too many layers as usual. We set off into the village and them did the south east bridleway before heading back to Breasty Haw (see map attached) Then the usual route, kinda, to find the Fox, here we decided to go south west down towards the visitor centre (VC) which means the rocky bouldering route that comes out by the VC, great fun if you could manage to keep going and wither not dab or not fall off! Then start up the fire road towards the NF, but keep going and go up the bridleway next to the black route finish, keep climbing, over a couple of junctions and head over to the tank tracks, but turn left and enjoy the descent down Moor lane back to the cars, less than 10 miles in the end, but plenty of smiles for the downhill. It warmed up fine in the end, nice mystery route finding type o'ride. Next week it's Elterwater, park on common.  

****   PS: This is the 400th post!! Thanks to all contributors   ****

Wednesday 12th September 2012 - "Tour of Britain", Old Hutton

"Bad" ass registration on this Merc'

Umbrella competition! note Team Sky car

Police STOP

Breakaway group

Team Sky feed zone, I wonder if the food has a blue stripe....?

Cav' in front of peleton

Wiggo flashing past (nearside left of photo)

A few of us met us near Old Hutton and Old Town to see some cyclists cycle past! Charlie and I cycled out in waterproofs and met Jamie at the feed zone just before Old Town, I believe Neil and family were also out on the road somewhere, Ian should have been in KL and Jim was aiming to be around Kirkby Lonsdale for some photo opportunity. There were quite a few folk around some in cars and some on bikes, some of the team support crews were commenting on British weather in late summer ;). There was a breakaway about 5 minutes in front and when the peleton came past Cav' was in front and team Sky near the front aiming to chase down the breakaway before the flat approach to Blackpool for a sprint finish for Cav' I only have a few photos but they will give a taste. Enjoy the tour.

6th September 2012 - Barbon

George, Jamie, Grant, Joel, Charlie and CT turned out on an evening where it was trying to rain, but just light warm mist, so what to wear Charlie could not decide but compared colours with Jamie (see photos, hasn't Charlie grown, nearly as tall as JB!). Usual route, warm up in first 100m up little hill, along lane, left onto bridleway up climb along track to lane, nice new tarmac, enjoy climb, steady away, through top gate and re-group, feels like the top but is really only half way up. George forgot his camera so no panorama views of the mist..but celebration 'Allsorts' from Charlie for doing well in some recent races! Carry on around hill and enjoy the descent, rocky, slippy and everyone sliding about, great fun. Back onto lanes, wave to some folk camping by the river, cross river, dip foot in river (JB), hammer back race styleee. Back to cars for chat, no pub, then home...although CT's Saab decided to make the journey tricky by cutting out a few times and so JB and Joel offered back up and followed CT to garage for new fuel! Next ride is Satterthaite, remember the Tour of Britain comes through Cumbria on Wednesday 12th September go and enjoy.

30th August 2012 - Troutbeck for Garburn

At last a summer evening, moon and all, top of Garburn

Moon reflecting on pond, Kentmere valley

4 riders met up at the pull in near Troutbeck church, George, Paul, Jamie and CT; as it happened Jamie cycles from Kendal and CT cycled from Staveley, George overtook us both on the lanes and tested his horn (road rage?). It was a fine evening and we headed up Garburn via Limefitt caravan park then the steady start up the gravelled lower section of Garburn. The technical sections are still very testing when climbing and after about the 5th corner we could hear a hissing noise and we eventually found the cause being a small gash in CT rear tyre, which although was tubeless had run out of sealant and so a new tube was required, at least the pause allowed George to take some pictures. Onward and up to the top, here there was some breeze and so no midges, great, also the moon was out and so gave a photo opportunity (see pic). So down the other side and watch the technical bits, but remember the lower section is loose and as hard as the rocky parts. Round past the church and up to 3 rivers, on the way another photo of the moon reflecting on the fish pond below (see pic, thanks George). Now it was getting darker, test those lights, at the river crossing take it easy or if you are Jamie try it three times just so you don't get wet feet! Along past the boggy bit, not bad, and we split up at the next junction as Jamie and CT were cycling back and George and Paul had to find their cars. On the blast down to the Ings road Jamie had a puncture, bad luck but it's a great descent. A fine evening, next ride is Barbon.

23rd August 2012 - Hartsop for Ullswater shore

New shoes!

Martindale common (southern end)

Deer hunting...where's the deer?

4 met up at the Hartsop village car park, how many do you think finished the ride ....Well George, Jamie, Joel and CT headed north along the tracks over stream crossing (JB trying to keep his new shoes clean :) and up the first ascent heading for Boredale Hause, JP struggled with the steep bit and was not feeling well, after pushing to the top of the track he was still not right and with a common sense head on decided to head back home, now we were three. We were heading for the east side of Martindale common and went over Bedafell Knott, a little walking but this offers an alternative descent and on the way we saw wild deer as we headed down to Dale head, although they were a little spooked by CT's squealing brakes (although after the heat of the downhill they were fine!) .Head along the lane round to Sandwick to pick up the bridleway west along the shore, it was starting to get a little dusky but we all had lights at the ready, note this first section is one of Charlie's faves, just watch out for wild sheep ready to throw you off the bike and damage your ribs, anyway we all survived and enjoyed some rock hopping, until a little shout from JB as his rear mech was playing up, a quick tweak from JB and we were off, only for the next set of rocks cause said mech to break the old zip-tie repair, so now the chain would not run smooth but it seemed if JB rode smoothly he could carry on and was still faster down hill! So a bit of walking uphills was involved and it was now dark and if you stop you DO need your midge repellent, so be warned if you stop by water! Now we were making progress, but the next thing was that the rear mech jockey wheel carrier broke off so now it was the end, JB had to scoot back whilst we rode to get the cars. It takes a good 10 minutes back on the road and so it was 10-ish before I got back to Patterdale to find JB. Update: Joel had got safely home earlier to rest up. Next ride is from Troutbeck and maybe Garburn if weather holds?

16th August 2012 - A6 Selside north of Kendal for Borrowdale

It must be the holiday season, 3 turned out and met near Selside, CT cycled from Milnthorpe and met up with JB in Kendal and both cycled to Selside (for future reference note it's uphill!) but you can take a little extra bridleway to get to the car park spot. Then Grant arrived (29er had been washed) so now 2 hardtails. Basically head across the road down the fields to the lanes and head along top the masts, which means a 20 minute climb up Whinfell, steady away....nice flapjack cake at the top as reward and just enough breeze to help cool down. The descent was boggy in places, but not too bad, also some rain but it was a warm evening so no need for waterproofs. Drop into the Borrowdale valley and head west, nice enjoyable route along this quiet valley between the A6 and the M6. Back on the A6 take the bridleway after jungle cafe and watch out for holes along the route, this section can be fast. Back at Grants car and time to cycle home, a good way for a few extra miles on the bike. next ride is Ullswater shore, meet at Hartsop

9th August 2012 - Lowick

5 riders made it out for a summer evening ride into Grizedale, George, Ian, Jamie, Grant and CT; worth noting that Grant had his new 29er hardtail, so watch out. Slight detour by heading over river and them up the first lane, it's a bit steep... then left and thru' the farm and over fields, watch out for muddy holes, this meets back up at the top of the normal climb and so across the fields and again watch out for muddy holes, Ian :) then enjoy the descent down the trail it's fantastic, just dry enough for a blast, although enough for Ian to loose his water bottle. Along the lane and left into the forest up the climb, then left and right. This time instead of going thro' the puddles we headed for Parkamoor via Park Crags. Time to photograph the sunset over Consiton and then down along to Nibthwaite, where Ian lost his chain and so freewheeled down in the dust light almost as fast as we did, again this is a great descent. Drop into the pub to hear some folk music and also top up on Olympic beach volleyball (mens :(. Next ride Borrowdale from A6 Shap road, Selside.

2nd August 2012 - Witherslack for Yewbarrow

But first.....we met up at Milnthorpe and watched some Olympic track cycling at the velodrome, we watched the mens team sprint, GB got gold, Hoy making some history; unfortunately Victoria Pendleton did not due to an error and would have to wait one more day for a medal opportunity (she got Gold the next day in the Keirin, Ed). So Ian, Jamie, Charlie, Grant and CT watched the Olympic TV and then cycled out to Witherslack for a circuit of Yewbarrow, it was a tad muddy in places but no rain during the ride. On the way back we did a liitle bit of chain gang riding with Charlie taking lead and trying to teach us the art of working together (no i in team and all that...!) but it's a good workout. Next ride is Lowick

26th July 2012 - Ribblehead (take 2)

So it's still summer albeit one month on from mid-summer, so let's see if we can do more of the Ribblehead ride; 4 turned up initially (i.e. on time!) Charlie, George, Jamie and CT and set off north west under the viaduct and then turn north for the Blue Clay Ridge bridleway running along the railway tracks, take a left over the viaduct and start up Craven Wold climb. Half way up here a 5th rider joined us, Grant, keep heading to Dentdale and enjoy the descent, try to keep some brake pads for later ;) Once in Dentdale head east along the river Dee, go past Cowgill and head up the Arten Gill bridleway, another first gear climb to start and then it eases off to second gear; try not to get sheep's wool snagged around your jockey wheel as this does not help the gear changes! Remembering that it is a warm and humid evening so the climb at over a mile means some sweat is produced which attracts midges, glad there was some breeze at the top. There is currently some work to make a new track to link onto Swineley Cowm, work still in progress and very claggy mud in places hence very muddy bikes and lots of grinding noises. The reward is to hammer down  to Newby Head gate and it's an excellent descent, just remember the last corner before the gate!Unfortunately not enough light to fully enjoy the last section off Cam High road (relief for some) and so we head back via Black Rake road bridleway and the last bit by road, where it was much darker, Jamie was first down the road with charlie chasing, George followed, CT adjusted his seat post and chased down George whilst Grant came back from the rear and we all raced back into the head wind, god knows how Cav' gets his power for any sprint finish! Good ride, must remember midge repellent next time, next ride Yewbarrow / Witherslack from Milnthorpe.

19th July 2012 - Walna Scar

5 riders met up near Broughton forest off hummer lane, Joel, Neil, Jamie, George and CT; with a bit of a dark cloud over the tops we set off. The usual route down into the forest, which was a little overgrown hence some bramble attacks resulted in leg scratches, plus tree roots and mud made for a testing first section, then up and over a small wooded section and finally onto the forest track for the climb up, up, up, steady away is the only way. Through gate and over bridge over stream, no good if over 700mm wide handlebars;( at the plateau we tried the left hand side, still some bog but some ride-able sections, pause at the old ruined stone huts and watch a sheep scrambling over the slate piles with a vulture circling above, (OK some sort of hawk). A quick jelly-baby and onward up into the mist, you forget but there is a short sharp section just to get to the gravel bit of the Walna Scar road, then once on the main track just select first gear and climb for the next 12 minutes or so, at least that was the plan, there is a extra steep section about 2/3rds up and also the top corner is tricky, i.e. I didn't clean it, this time. Re-group at the top, no scenic views this time just cold fog, so waterproofs on and head downhill. Although the descent has been 'worked on' it is still a good one and testing as the speed comes fast and there are no berms to ride, enjoy:) re-group at the bridge and then at the pond, take a later bridleway to the road, slippy in places due to the damp but interesting. A quick road ride back to the cars.
No pics as my phone camera failed to save them again, so here is one from the weekend..  :)
Next ride maybe a re-run of Ribblehead. (photos courtesy of Steep hill. tv)

Great Britain at Le Tour de France, come on....!

 

12th July 2012 - Troutbeck

View up High St. valley from Garburn

Start up Garburn

View from Robins Lane Seat

5 riders met up at the layby parking next to the river near the church, Ian, Paul, John, Jamie and CT. Fairly usual circuit up past Limefit, down the alley and do the loop which is part of the Sam, to end up above Limefit, then start up Garburn, these sections had not been effected by the recent rains, so the previous reinstatement works had done the trick, albeit sanitised the trails a bit, take the right turn down Dubbs, after JB and CT had checked out some lines in the woods :) Down Dubbs, 2 punctures so John must have been enjoying the descent, right on the road and back to get to Garburn for the last descent to the road, next puncture to JB, front tyre on hardtail :( Usual route along lane, down field, past MiL house, up Robin lane, admire view, down track, along road, down Mirk and up Wain lanes. Seemingly Charlie is not keeping up the hedge trimming up while doing her lunchtime runs as the overgrowth is overtaking...! Now final climb back up to Robin lane and descend back to cars, no pub, no meal, so Ian went off in a huff :) (actually went home early due to mechanicals. Cheers to Paul for the pics, my phone camera did not actually save any of my pictures, Arrh! Next ride maybe Walna Scar.

5th July 2012 - Bowness for Ferry ride

7 of us started out from Neils place somewhere in uptown Bowness or is it downtown Windermere...no one ever knows, we eventually all met up at the ferry, it was a little damp, but it had been a good day without the downpours of a week earlier. We had the ferry crossing all to ourselves (this takes a lot of planning, but it helped that it was in the summer!) and then straight up the road climb then first right in Sawrey for the up and over to the singletrack down to the lake shore, this was a tad slippy in the damp conditions, it seems that wet weather after a dry spell equals slippiness? So take care downhill, re-group at the bottom full of smiles. Left along the shore route, where they are doing 'works' as so mud was a-plenty, we heard engines behind us and stopped to allow what we thought were some motorbikes, but turned out to be a Honda 90 bouncing his way home, looked like a pizza delivery bike! Onward to the base camp and up, but not the fire road, take the left hand bridleway as this is a test, in the wet, and it turns through the forest and joins up with the alternative route and brings us back onto the fire road at the bottom of the guide post extra loop. Now for the testing climb up into the forest, always worth a go :( anyway get to the top for a break. What happened next in the works of Neil " As I managed to 'clean' ride up through the little track through the trees to the top of Claife I was feeling pleased with my efforts –then as I came out of the trees, and the icing on the cake, a super surprise greeted me - Chris stood holding a birthday cake (with icing) and complete with candles, which seemed a bit surreal." (see photo to prove it).

Powered by Cake and candles !

Ferry all our own:)

How many bikers does it take to fix a bike.....?

The ferry gang

So now powered by cake we set off back to Sawrey, at the village it was about 9.15pm, still time for another circuit for the single track down to the shore, Ian was not keen and headed off down the road to the ferry, the rest kept going. Still damp and dark sky's threatening and thunder sounds kept us on our toes, but it only started to rain once we got to the bottom shore. Some folk donned water proofs, but we had 10 mins to get the next ferry so promptly set off along the shore, this section is deceptive as you think it's only a few hundred metres but it took 5-6 mins to make the ferry, Ian was not around and so must have made the earlier ferry. Again we had the ferry all to ourselves (I love it when a plan comes together!) The ferry chap stayed in his wheelhouse, nice finishing touch to the ride; off the ferry and now just the small matter of navigating back to Neils; Neils stayed back to make sure Paul found his way back, a small breakaway formed at the front...but we made it. Just a little rain but very mild. Sue, (Neils wife) came out and invited us in as she had made some nosh, something to do with someones Birthday, so we sorted the bikes into cars and changed for supper. Neil and Paul made it back, Neil mentioned putting the kettle on, it was a bit of a shock to find the table full of a spread, chilli, rice, baked 'tatoes...and more...and so a few of us ended the evening very well, Oh and there was some cake too, top marks to Sue!! Next ride Troutbeck, park near church/river layby, anyone got a birthday coming up...?

28th June 2012 - Staveley for Garburn

Top o' Garburn, blue sky appearing

Riders make high point

Blue sky evening

Getting ready for the downhill

Watch the washed out rocks..!

Look what water can do = testing technical descent!

What happened was the weather, well a few folk were away or not going to make Coniston and along with the thunder and lightning and flooded roads, it was going to be hard going. As it happened the A6 was flooded around Milnthorpe and the dual carriageway into Kendal was flooded across all lanes of the road (and was still flooded at 10.30pm), so I think keeping a local ride made sense and we'll re-arrange Walna Scar for another day.
So Jamie, Neil, John, Joel, George and CT met up at Barley Bridge to see a very high river; which route tonight, perhaps keep to the rocky side so lets do Garburn, up the tarmac climb past 3 rivers and down to Kentmere was the plan. The only down side was that along the top, where the track has been repaired it was flooded, so we had to work a way round and the top river crossing was tricky with large boulders! A fairly wet descent down to Kentmere then the climb up Garburn but at least a blue sky was making an appearance, steady away walk a bit, ride a bit, keep going up, eat at the rest stop near the top just where the wind was getting up. Over the top and watch the descent as the water will have and did cut up some of the trail, which made the riding a bit more technical! Down to Dubbs, one puncture to a hardtail (29er guess who) ride light we say, Oh and did we mention 4 hardtails v's 2 full sus' what is going on...:) Back via Borrans lane and back into Staveley, where plenty of water means mudguards make sense, bit you still get a wet face;( after 10pm still some light, good ride. Next ride: plan to park Bowness side and take the ferry to the other side for more riding.

21st June 2012 - Mid-summer ride from Ribblehead

Top O' Craven Wold (500m)

River Dee was very fast flowing

 4 turned up on this mid-summer day, Joel, Grant, Matt and CT, so we had 2 hardtails, a 29er and a 69er. The weather looked promising, i.e. not actually raining at the start, so we thought we would set out on the usual route under the viaduct and up the bridleway and over into Dentdale to see what that would bring. Matt could not remember coming this way before and Joel had not been on this route but had nightmares about the Horton ride a few summers ago, best not mention steep tarmac climbs then :) So head west under Ribblehead viaduct, try to avoid using the newly surfaced footpath as this looks very tempting...head north along the railway along Little Dale nice riverbed crossing over rocks along here (should be able to float over these with a 29er!), turn left over an aqueduct and head north up Slack Head, nice little testing climb, now the rain starts nearly time for Goretex. Up a little way and there is a sign to 'Dent Head' made some of us think about Grant :), best not as the Dr's were on strike today :( So next pause along the way is Seavey Bottom for a re-group, not sure if this is the muddy puddle with Matt's name on, even with 29er wheel he went wheel in and head over bars! Try and enjoy the run along the tops, great views if you've not been this way before...and down the Craven Way to Dentdale, just watch out for the last turn as the braking surface is tricky, eh Joel just burn those brakes. Now turn right and head east along the lanes and check out the amount of water flowing in the river Dee, at one point there was a waterfall a good 6' deep, (see photo) very impressive as usually you can just see limestone and a trickle of water. Due to weather conditions and still being a few miles to get back we head back on the lanes and were back at the cars just before 10pm, maybe save the other offroad for a better evening. Get out of wet clothes, dream of chips and a bath and off home. Next ride is Walna Scar, meet at Hummer lane pull in by the forest entrance. Actualy it changed due to storms making roads flooded, so we went to Staveley and did Garburn.

14th June 2012 - Hawkshead for Grizedale

George, Grant, Jamie, John, Joel and CT met up at the school on this mild but windy evening, forecast for rain 9pm. Jamie was testing his hardtail with a new middle ring, but an old chain and cassette...so off up the bridleway into the forest, this showed us that old cassettes don't always work, anyway Jamie had 5-6th gears and 3 chain rings so should be OK...Onto the north face, down the first section after Moor Top, then tee off left at the bridge, enjoy the singletrack even if there were some v. steep climbs back up, it's a great section of trail. Back along the NF to the visitors centre, up the fire road but ignore the NF trail and keep going to the bottom of the black run, take the left bridleway just before the end of the black and climb, right at the top and along to find the start of the black. Here we put saddles down and took a deep breath, watch out for the first rock steps and jumps, then there is a very sharp turn and v.steep descent, once over this you can roll down with care, no disasters to speak of, re-group at the bottom. Now down the gully route to the centre over the road and up to the Fox, slight pause as Georges rear mech was re-aligned, then enjoy the steady climb up to the fire road and onto the Fox. Here some slight drizzle, all OK for the descent down the eastern trail, hit the lane (newly tarmac'd, loose gravel and smelly) and turn right, climb up to the top, eat some food along the way. 
At the top we re-grouped and did the gravity race thing, Grant took the left route and so started on the clean older tarmac, John ended up on the right (watching out for coming traffic!), 1..2..3..GO! we were off, it's a slow start, Grant ahead, followed by Jamie and CT, Jamie kept the lead, although how John overtook CT I've no idea. Watch out for the bridleway on the left hand side, head over the field and enjoy the singletrack, keep eating, another Gel. This leads to a great downhill, just watch the gap through the wall. As we re-grouped at the bottom lane another group of MTBers caught us up, probably 10 riders, so we pretty much rode back to Hawkshead together, especially as one of their's had ripped a rear mech off and so was being pushed back. A great ride and it didn't rain. Next ride mid-summer from Riddlehead. 

7th June 2012 - Milnthorpe for Farleton

4 met up at Milnthorpe, Charlie, George, Grant and CT, George even cycled over in the rain, yes it was raining, not too hard but enough to need waterproofs. This was a gentle ride, pre San Houghton (even through we were not doing it!). So we cycled out via Holme and get onto Farleton via the farm to the west side, Holme Park Farm and rode up the bridleway onto Holme Park Fell. there is a nice testing climb to start them gentle along by the quarry, now for a circuit round the limestone and back, with Charlie managing to keep her ribs intact! but she did not want to risk the downhill off-road and so de-toured down the lane and met us back on the flat section. Not long after George headed off home and the 3 of us had a curry back in Milnthorpe to round off an easy ride. Next ride is Grizedale from Hawkshead.

4th June 2012 - Bank Holiday Monday - High Street ride

It was a Sunny Bank Holiday Monday in the Lakes and the High Street route (Roman Road) was calling. So fuelled by porridge and toast, Charlie and CT drove to Askham to do an anti-clockwise route, including Ullswater shore, Kirkstone pass, then hit the High St. and head north to finish back at Askham. Doing Ullswater shore early meant fewer walkers on the rocky sections and also a tail wind over Kirkstone. Jamie decided it was too good to miss and turned up just in time. Askham swimming pool not yet open we set off about 8.40am heading west to the cockpit then onto Martindale via Howtown, this is a great bit of singletrack and we passed a jogger once, then she overttok us at a gate, until we re-took her later, she was also out enjoying the early morning peace. This links through via a little road to Sandwick and joins the bridleway along Ullswater. Now for some technical sections, watch out for rocks and sheep, Charlie managed to miss the sheep but fell, bashed her ribs and blooded her knee. Still breathing so all is OK, if a little sore taking a breath, should be fine to carry on after all a full susser should iron out the bumps!

Whilst stopped for 1st aid; eat banana and start on bacon butty. Continue along the shore, we pass a couple of bikers who have full touring panniers, not sure they will ride much of the rocky stuff. Continue to side farm cafe for a cuppa of tea, unfortunately there were no ice packs for Charlie’s ribs so she had to make do with cake.

Now onto the road for a few miles up Kirkstone pass, over the top and we stopped for a rest and more food, bacon butty made with hot bacon, tomato and salad hits the spot on this ride. This gave time for some rear mech’ repair to Charlie’s bike to make sure she can get round the whole route, don’t want any excuses bruised ribs or mechanicals! Blast down the other side and manage 42 mph, tee off left at Town Head to Ing Lane, JB had his one and only puncture here (getting better!), cross Ing bridge and to join the bridleway heading north up Hagg Gill and the start of the climb up High Street, once you get towards Park Fell the route is a bit of a walk (about 1 mile), but take it steady on this sunny day and it’s steep but manageable. Half way up second butty and pork pie, get to the top and ride a little, walk, ride some more, over top of High Street some great views of Hayeswater (see photos) then down to Riggindale and tee right for High Raise now stop for remainder of butty.

Now it’s just a matter of heading north to Loadpot Hill and take the right tracks, there are some great fast descents just watch out for rabbit holes and worse. Back to Askham for an ice cream to cool off at about 4.20pm, 37 miles, loads of calories burnt, max altitude about 2,700 ft (also the height of the Burj Khalifa tower in Dubai), total height gain 5,900 ft. An excellent day out especially for a BH Monday, home to enjoy the Queens Diamond Jubilee concert on TV.

Hayeswater

Ullswater

High Street from the south, near Troutbeck

View from Park Fell looking back to the High Street route stretching to Windermere, nice top!

Fixing stuff on Kirkstone pass overlooking Windermere

Riding up High Street!