24th-25th March 2007 - Weekend trip to Dalbeattie area

6 riders ventured away of a TuckeyTours trip to sunny Scotland, I jest not, we woke up on Saturday to clear blue skies, so much so that half our group wore shorts. The crew consisted of JP, Jamie, Ed, Grant, Ian and CT, we headed out to Kirroughtree on Saturday and were even on bikes by 10.30am! unfortunately part of the start of the red trail was closed, which shortened the ride, but the overall riding time was just under 3 hours and we were out for 5 hours in total. The first casualty was JP with a broken seat pin bolt, it could have been worse! Ian came up with a spare bolt and after some 1st aid we were off. Kirroughtree is well worth the extra journey time, especially as we were riding in the sunshine, we even came across someone Jamie knew from Kendal. The McMoab is a great testing area, including the drop off, which has many people standing around the bottom with camera phones waiting for things to happen, check out the link to the video section (at right hand side of this web page). All in all it was a great ride, Grant was heading back to do his chef thing with his commis chef so he took the key to the chalet, the others went shopping, we got back but Grant & co were not to be found, so we unpacked, cleaned bikes and waited, no show and as I was about to find an alternative way into the chalet the car turned up, they had taken a detour via the coast road, even with GPS and a map, Ian had to resort to a compass! Clean bike, shower, swim and a sauna to finish he day off.

Later Grant and JP did a fantastic curry and we all flaked out into front of the TV watching 'Bear Grylls' saving himself from sharks! Next day Grant rustled up a cooked breakfast, albeit forgetting the mushrooms (thankfully said Jamie, something about being the wrong sort of mushroom?) then when the day was warming up we set out to ride Dalbeattie from the chalet, again there was a detour as we entered the forest, but not to be put off we set off into the forest, after some scouting by Ed we found a ridable detour and continued on the circuit. We had a play on the Twins (again check out the video, I made it down!!) There is a mix of fire road, but after the trail head area there is a section of singletrack which has been added to and now goes all the way to the slab section, it's great. At the slab, we again had some play time with lots of chat, trying to talk everyone into having a go, while we were there a couple came past and took the black route to the right of the slab, with the girlie saying the slab was just ballsy, the black route side route more interesting and it was. Just before we finished playing Grant had a go at the qualifier and made it all the way down,albeit he missed the exit and took a big tumble trying to avoid the rocks, he eventually got up saying that was lucky, on closer inspection he had cracked his helmet in 2 places and completed sheared off the brake reservoir from his front brake, so that was to limit his style! After that Ed made another attempt to get down the qualifier, round the corner and over the slab in one go, his font whell caught in a hallow and he jumped clean off (check out the very grainy video), having said that after fixing his puncture he did get it right and cleaned the whole lot, well done!

Back at base clean off the dust, and pack up the bike for Ian, Joel and Grant who were heading home, Jamie stayed for a while while Ed and I stayed over and rode Newcastleton on the Monday again in sunshine, there is some testing boardwalk play area and a great finish through the trees with little burms and jumps and its easy to ride the last section again. All in all a great weekend. More photos hopefully once we get them together. Cheers lads.

29th March 2007 - Hawkshead for Grisedale

7 eventually turned up at the Hawkshead car park, TG was late but not as late at JP, who decided Elterwater sounded like the place to go, until no one turned up and he phoned me, "get your *s*! down to Hawkshead" so he did. A bit of trouble with lights, but we set off up the first trail heading into the forest past Walker ground and the vicarage, it's a testing warm up, so much that JP chest was not playing ball, we naturally all commiserated and said keep going you can always trun back later...Now we started out in daylight, but as we got to the forest it was darker, still it's a great decent down to the visitor centre and then the climb UP, now we needed lights. This climb seemed longer, but it is better not to start cold from the visitor centre, at least Hawkshead allows some warm up. No real dramas, Jamie had his second wheel in, JP had a new chain and seat post bolt, Paul had a slack main pivot (new bike time!).
Anyway we stormed off round the North Face trail, thoroughly enjoying the boardwalks (I think that's what TG said), even if they do not have chicken mesh, they are still ridable! Last ride of the winter and we enjoyed the descent back down into Hawkshead, so much so that JP hit a gully and punctured. Into the pub for a beer and to discuss the 2007 summer ride list, watch this space. Next week its Gilpin Bridge last ride (short) and a meal at the Inn, come along for a chat.

22nd March 2007 - Elterwater ...?

Well it was the Thursday before a weekend away in Scotland and everyone was saving themselves...so Paul tells the tale...
"I turned up at Elterwater at 6:45 to find the car park packed full of cars, but no rads riders. I waited 10 minutes, then used my phone to view the email, I couldn't have come to the wrong place could I? No I was in the right place... another 10 minute wait and I decided to head home, I decided riding on my own in the dark probably wasn't a good idea, besides I couldn't remember the route anyway. Nice drive out to Elterwater though, very picturesque."
So no ride...till next time.

15th March 2007 - Staveley

Thursday Night riders turned out for a starry night ride, we crossed Barley bridge and took the first bridleway on the left about a quarter of a mile from the bridge and proceeded down easy tracks past Scroggs Farm until we came to some house near Elfhowe where the ascent started only Jamie cleared it. Chris was having gear problem and Grant, myself and Ian just did not make it. We then joined the Staveley Head Fell road and turned left off the road which took us over the fell and down through the plantation. Grant was wowing at his newly serviced bike and the fact that the suspension actually worked. We turned left and then right over the bridge and left again on the bridleway to Browfoot which has now been covered with tarmac hence spoiling what was once a technical climb. We then continued up and over the fell taking the three rivers route back to Barley Bridge.
Next week it's Elterwater.

8th March 2007 - Barbon

5 riders met up at Barbon for the usual 'hill climb' ride, it had been dry all day...until we parked up and started to get ready, Charlie even tried to phone me from her car when I was all of 10 yards away, just to say it was raining, but I filtered the call and so she just had to shout from the car, "it's raining".
Any how we set off, it's the usual route, here's a quick summary: up the lane, turn right, along the lane, peddling into the wind! down the hill and look for the bridleway on the left for the short cut (said Paul) up the first testing climb, Chris M' had a good go, the others walked some. Then turn right at the top, thru' the gate and ride along the track, watch out for the muddy wheel tracks, it was hard work even riding along this flattish section. At the road turn left and start up the second tarmac climb, I was even surprised when my lights picked out a frog gently hoping up the road, it on the left hand side so I had to take evasive action to avoid it! The next section is the third climb up the long off-road climb to the left, we stopped on the lane and looked for some shelter, but there was none, not even a sheep sheltering behind a wall (probably tucked up in bed...just like Shaun the sheep!) We a quick drink and a snack and off up the lane, at a few sections Charlie seemed to be testing us as she was walking as fast as we could ride!....anyway on up to the gate, it's a big climb but still only half way up, we paused to admire the lights of Kirkby Lonsdale, then off again up the slog, making sure we took the right track. Down to the gate for the muddy section, although it's downhill we seemed to have to peddle. Even at the gate on the tarmac section we were peddling, then left and onto the downhill rocky route, this was a tester in the rain, but we made it down, now it was just the ford to go, as we were wet through, who would have a go at crossing the ford....no one except CT, nearly made it, just got wet feet, so crack on through the woods for the Barbon down hill, back at the cars a quick exit and home for a bath.
Next week it's Staveley meet at Barley Bridge for a classic.

1st March 2007 - Troutbeck

6 met up at the layby near Troutbeck Church Bridge, we set off towards Ings to get to Longmire road track, then down the bridleway to Limefitt Park and down the hill, where Jamie on his new 29er had a puncture, maybe because he was riding his 700c road wheels (with disc mounts!) and narrow cycle cross tyres. We had time to admire the moon lit view of troutbeck over limefitt park, it seemed almost like a spanish village in the moonlight, maybe my imagination was working overtime!
We dropped down to the road and took the bridleway past the church and up the track to the Troutbeck road, it's a bit of a climb! Then we took Robin lane and stopped at the seat for the moon lit view of Windermere, then its down the rocky route to Holbeck lane and a right and left turn to take Wain Lane, now this is a rocky route, watch out for the stream and the muddy puddles. At the main road turn right and then take the track up Mirk lane, this invloves the uphill challengue, well done to Chris for making it past the first corner! We continued up and regrouped at the road, then we went back to Troutbeck, down the track back to the church and back to the cars. It was a good moon lit night.
Next week it's Barbon.

22nd February 2007 - Lowick & Grizedale

4 riders met up near the Red Lion, Lowick. 4 riders set up the road towards Nibthwaite Grange, only 3 made it that far, Ian was having gear trouble...he said he would go back...never to be seem again??? So that left 3 riders heading up Bletherbarrow Lane and it must be a mile up hill (not to put anyone off!) and then ease off along and down the lane towards High Ickenthwaite, we discussed which route we should take now that our guide had left us, we figured we should head towards Satterthwaite, but maybe take an earlier forrest track into Grizedale to avoid the rocky climb. We set off down the mini river that was the track to Ickenthwaite, turned left into Corker Lane and along to Force Forge, turn left for the testing little bridleway and look for the forrest track gate just after Low Bowkerstead, follow the fire road until the small tarn (with no name) turn left and keep going following the track, this turns round to the right and heads uphill, take a left track and pick up the marked bridleway onto High Parkamoor, through the gate and look out for the muddy puddles. We now headed along the bridleway to get the great descent into High Nibthwaite and guess who we bump into along the top path, yes our guide had walked up the track with his not so trusty bike, his gears were still bad and we stopped every few yards to free the chain, but at least Ian could freewheel down some of the hill! It is a great test following the water coursing down through the rock gardens and even towards the end there are fast sections with burms to ride over, it was enough to even throw off Ians back light, which we picked up along the trail ('cause Ian does not stop going downhill, even but no gears). We all met up at the bottom gate, now it was getting late, 9.30pm-ish so we rode back to the cars to get home and dry off. A great ride for 3 1/2 and not too wet!
Next week it's Troutbeck, park in the lay-by down from the church.

15th February 2007 - Winster

Five riders, Chris M (thanks for the on the spot reporting), Paul, Grant, Ed and Ian, turned up at Winster church for an expected easy ride around the bridle ways of Winster. Cycled along the road to the ford, no one was brave enough to go through the ford though Ed thought about it, plenty of comments about not getting wet feet this early in the ride. We then cycled up the hill via the road and had a play on the pile of grit that had been left at the top of the hill, only Ed was brave enough to do the steep drop off. We then cycled along the gated road that turns into a track and eventually joined the main road A5074 near the start of the Lindeth Lane where Ian promptly had a puncture. Puncture soon fixed, we headed up the bridleway towards Bateman Fold, a good long slog and enjoyed the short descent the other side. We then cycled along the road and track to Thornyfields where we cycled up the Bow Mabble Brest (never knew it was called that until I looked on the map!) unfortunately the cattle and farm vehicles had been here before us and it proved to be a slippy, slidy, muddy bike part of the ride; one to avoid for the rest of the winter I think! We then went straight over at the main road to Crag Lane and another challenging ascent in the wet before cycling back to the cars at Winster Church.
Next Thursday it's the Red Lion at Lowick

8th February 2007 - Satterthwaite for Grizedale

The 3 amigo's (the tall one, the skinny one and the legal beaver) turned out to meet near Satterthwaite for a 'cold, crisp and even' snowy ride around Grizedale forrest. We braved the freezing temperatures, well according to the French car it was -2, the Swedish car said just zero and the Japanese could not decide. There were signs of snow at the sides of the road and so we thought that we may get some snow riding in, but at least the start was traditional, yes straight UP Moor lane. We noticed some tyre tracks from 2 bikes and one was at least a hybrid, if not a touring bike! There was some ice in places, but we battled on up the lane.
At the top you come out onto a forrest road, turn right and travel down, we were shown a slight detour which needed some skilful riding and we came out on a track going towards the visitor centre, take the left turn at the bottom of the hill (before you get to the centre) and we climbed steadily up the hill in about 20mm fresh snow. Roughly the route (from OS Leisure) going up Harry Intake towards Mustard Hill, but take the right hand turn, heading down until a junction, then take the rough track straight ahead, at this point someone shouted something about the left hand side, I did not quite hear, it's a little technical and rocky but OK, this route heads down towards the visitor centre, a little further on after a bend there is a washed out section with large drop offs into gullies, so keep left to avoid them, but once committed they are tasty but manageable!!
We crossed the main road and headed up the track opposite the visitor centre, it's very rocky and provided some testing riding, so much that I walked much of it and proved that it's almost as quick as riding! at the top turn right onto the forrest road towards the Fox, then take the right hand track, here we were riding on virgin snow, we stopped to look at the stars and enjoy the tranquil peace of the moment and discussed fishing!!! Onward to take a singletrack on the left hand side, which we usually come up, this was snowy and icy, carry on until the track opens out into a clearing, hear we found animal tracks and wondered were they deer? no too small (maybe a small deer!!) these tracks were all over the forrest roads and we think probably a hare, playing in the snow!
At this point we are looking for a route to get us back to the bridleway into Satterthwaite and after some forrest roads we found a right hand route up a little testing climb, in snow, Jamie had a go and stalled so I saw my opportunity so I headed on....and promtly fell over, landing softly onto Jamie bike! We carried on through the singletrack to join up with the downhill into Satterthwaite, very enjoyable. Back to the cars and into the pub for a warm up, beer and crisps. Next week it's Winster, park opposite the church.

1st February 2007 - Whitbarrow

5 riders set out from Gilpin Bridge on time, a 6th set off later to catch up, but the others had taken a detour, more details to follow...Watch this space... OK so no update but you can imagine the route, ask Jamie for details.

Thursday 8th February it's Grizedale from Satherthwaite (Parking 400m S of village)

25th January 2007 - Elterwater - Hodge Close

6 met up at the car park near Britannia Inn, it would have been 8 but Ian forgot to pack his bike and Paul got halfway but forgot his battery!!! From the car park take a left over the river and immediately the first right up the lane, but remember to take the right hand track, cheers Joel, continue on and up to the quarry, ride through and then a quick left and right to take the climbing test through the trees at Sawrey's Wood...CT said wouldn't it be good to try this as a descent and maybe come back this way, but Joel wasn't so sure, he just wanted a quick ride round to the pub! Go up and over and take the right turn through the gate, up the track onto the lane at Little Langdale, we decided to turn right and go round and up and over to High Tilberthwaite. It's a steady climb but not too bad, some technical challenges and some testing rocks on the way down. During the downhill we came across some other riders, Charlie at the back thought that we had turned round! This must be the first time I have seem a group 8-10 of others riders out on a night ride, they were going in the opposite direction and weirdly we met them again between Hodge Close and the ford.
From High Tilberthwaite head along to the playgound/freeride area, there we discussed routes while Ed managed to climb uphill on the freeride! We decided to go round by Hodge Close and back to the ford that way, no takers for the ford crossing so the bridge it was, up the hill take the right hand track back past Dale End at the gate the group split into Joel (I'm not going down that descent) Charlie and Ed (No more lights) then Jamie and the 2 Chris's went back along Sawrey's wood to try the downhill back to the quarry, the tree roots are tricky and do NOT take the right hand line by the wall, tee off left and them it's enjoyable! Back to the car park and the pub, they even served chips after 9pm, another point for the Britannia Inn, Well Done.
Next Thursday, 1st February, it's Gilpin Bridge Inn, Lyth Valley.

Sunday 21st January 2007 - Glentress, Scotland

Climbing to The snow line and shelter at the top.

Climbing the first stage, the dynamic trio at the start.

Some twisty downhill.

How low can you go?

Jamie catching some air...!

4 riders braved the wintry weather for a trip to Glentress, Charlie, Jamie & the two Chris's. The 7 day forecast had snow showers on the weekend, but you can never tell with the weather...the winds in Cumbria meant that there was a power cut in Milnthorpe on Friday and Saturday, for Chris this was not a great prep' for a big ride!! On the ride up past Moffit there was a patch of snow on an untreated road, but it was passable with care. We all met up at the Hub and got the first hot drinks of the day, as the temp' was hovering around 2 deg’C, but it did warm up a bit, especially after the first hill climb, just like a start to a normal RADs ride!!!

For a guide to our route we headed out on the Black Helly Hansen V trail going past the blue freeride area (which we visited later) after the start you head out onto the fells and the long climb up Tower Ride and out to the Kipps Loop where we found the snow (see photos) a quick stop at the shelter for the view and we headed down some sweet single track, then CT got a slow puncture so we changed tube before the Britney Spears downhill, although this was a little diapointing as the trail is fairly cut up and it does not flow well, we thought that the black route was due for a re-build as the other routes have been refurbished, so to speak. Anyway we headed down the Boundary Trail and down to the fire road, after some discussion on the condition of the trail it was decided to leave the black trail and make our way back via the blue route, which was very good and a lot more flowing than the black, we (well two of us) also took a quick sample ride through the blue freeride area landing a few tabletops for a bit of fun! Then we had to sculpture some braches off a fallen tree to make a way through (cheers to Jamie) and then libo under the tree, see photos. Then head down the Falla Brae and take in the black grade option for some drop offs and back to the Hub.

We then had lunch at the Hub cafe, bacon and egg buns with tea and coffee, a quick warm up under the outdoor gas heater and we were heading back up the trail for a circuit of the red route. This of course meant that we had to go back up the climb and we were a little slower and definately needed more energy bars, gel fuel and anything we could get, as we pasted the freeride area we also had a look at the black section, which meant riding some log timber trails and looking at the timber take off ramps....perhaps another time! Onwards and upwards riding through a snow shower which had big enough snow flakes to settle on us and the trail, then to the top of Spookywood singletrack and the best downhill track including some berms and table top jumps, at this time of day i.e. loosing the light there was no one around, earlier in the day and this downhill would have been busier. We carried on and enjoyed the Matrix which is a descent of serious twisting trail where you can see the folks riding just below you as you turn direction at each switchback. Back up the last short and step climb to enjoy the final descent down to the cafe. 5 hours on the trail, time for a jet wash for the bikes, a change into warm clothing and a hot drink at the hub cafe.

Comments from the team: "I had a really good time at Glentress and we sampled all the trails that were on offer. The Black and the seriously hard ascent and harsh surface on the decents, Blue and the swoopy smooth section through the woods and the Red which even the timid will be seeing how much air they can get.
The highlight has to be the section from the top of the Red it just puts a smile on your face.
Roll on the next trip to the 7 Stanes."

Next planned weekend trip is to Dalbeattie area over the weekend 24-25th March 2007.

18th January 2007 - Oxen Park

5 riders met up at Oxen Park, some parked at the pub, some down the lane and others next to the village hall, eventually by a process of elimination (& mobile phone) we all met at the village hall. Jamie's chiropractor said best give the ride a miss so Jamie came to chat about arrangements for Sundays Glentress trip. Afterwards 4 of us set off, head west for Bandrake Head and turn right up the steep tarmac lane which once through the farm goes into a bridleway, head north and enjoy the bumpy track, which due to the rain was wet and in places it felt like going down some rapids, but in the dry may seem more normal. At the end of this track is High Ickenthwaite where we turned left and down Corker Lane, head down to Force Forge, where we could have taken the left turn and the testing climb up the bridleway, but after some thought we agreed to carry on along the road and climb on tarmac and then come back down the bridleway, so this is what we did, and it seems a very short descent compared to climbing it! We then turned left on the road and took the right hand bridleway at Force Mills, go past Sawrey Stricely wood and Stricely Intake, where we stopped for a chat, some home made energy bars (recipe to follow) then down the track, which in summer seems very fast but now you have to follow the water course and just try to stay upright! Down at Thwaite Moss we turned right, then right again and left onto the road before a right turn UP the lane over Yew Beck and back to High Ickenthwaite, take the first track on the left through a gate, keep left and head for The Riggs taking care of the washed out gullies along the way, then back to the cars. A quick change and into the pub for a warm up drink. Next week its Britannia Inn, Elterwater.

11th January 2007 - Grizedale from Hawkshead

Can you guess what it is yet.....?

5 riders met up at Hawkshead to brave the windy weather. I begged a lift from Jamie thinking to help 'save the planet' and as an added bonus, if there were any floods we would be OK in his truck, so guess what, he took the Toyota hatchback!! Shout out to Paul for making it all the way from Penrith and Nick who traveled from Ullverston way.

We had a little discussion on route choice, it went something like this...which is closer Grizedale or Claife and which is more sheltered? we figured Grizedale should have better managed trees, so off we went UP the new bridleway out of Hawkshead. It is a bit of a climb, you know, the standard RADs warm up!! We rode round a few fallen branches just to add to the climbing test, there was not much chat at the first gate, just a little pause for recovery. Just a bit further and we reach the North Face trail, 2 hardtails, 2 full sussers and 1 rigid!

We joined the trail and climbed up towards Moor Top, on the way a few hundred yards in and we came across our first fallen tree blocking the trail, what would you do? Whip out your trusty pocket saw and cut it up, exactly! That's what we did, when I say we, I mean Jamie (the woodsman) forget cool tool, use an 8 inch blade...we dragged the log out of the way and set off wondering how many more there may be....? Off down the trail to Moor Top along the fire road and enjoy the downhill route to the visitor cente, but not before another fallen tree, here we go...out with the blade...(see photo), ride over cut log and continue round the North Face trail, thankfully there were no more fallen tree obstacles, just the usual boardwalk to slip up the unwary...if you think you are going to fall off you will, just ask Nick or Jamie! Whereas Paul rode the raised plank log on the final descent (after CT showed 3 ways not to do it).

It was a windy ride but with no rain and well worth the effort, at least after the warm up. Next week it's Oxen Park, just north of Haverthwaite beyond Bouth.

4th January 2007 - Ings

8 souls met up at the Watermill, Ings for a start along a new route, 2 even cycled out from Kendal (new years resolutions???). So we headed south west down the lane away from the parking layby at Ings (near the Watermill) going under the railway bridge and taking the first bridleway on the right hand side towards Whssdike, it was muddy and wet, but gave a good test of riding skills, then take the lane past Blackmoss (and all the gates) and meet the main A591, cross over heading past Heaning farm, at Mislet turn left for a few yards then take the right turn up Dubbs Road. Keep heading up the lane through the initial muddles, you just have to guess which side to take the large puddles that cross the whole lane? at the top junction with Garburn turn left for a quick descent then tee off right for the ride through Limefitt Park and down to the road (A592) turn left and ride to take the left turn along the Moorhouse Road, but tee off back up Longmire track, climb back up part of Garburn! and take the right to enjoy the downhill back down Dubbs Road, still trying to avoid the puddles, keep left, keep right, it's still a lottery! Back along the lane to Ings and a beer for some. Next week its Hawkshead.

1st January 2007 - Kentmere

For the New Years Day ride we met up in Staveley for 10.45am, we had to wait for someone who was still having their bacon & eggs and so we sampled a coffee at Wilf's while we waited, first Jamie had some cake, then Ed bought some for later and finally Ian had to have some as well! Anyway after some route discussion, which way round Garburn...? (...@**~ly hell, Oh no not Garburn) 6 of us set off at 11.30-ish...up Browfoot Lane and the tarmac climb, over the top to get the downhill into Kentmere Hall and then the climb up Garburn, seeing how many times we had to get off and walk..., each of us trying to out do the others, it's a bloody good test not just of leg muscles but also the brain, back, arms, 6 pack....etc,etc, so we walked half of it. At the top we rested behind a wall protecting us from the wind, so when we got back on the bikes, we had to pedal downhill. Over the top of Garburn the downhill is an enjoyable reward for all the climbing, we met a couple of young lads on bike going down and they shouted "it's a bit technical this is" dead right they were too. So we all made it down, Ian and Jamie racing at the front the rest trying to keep up. We took the left turn down Dubbs Road and enjoyed the puddles at the bottom, Ed took the deepest route and was nearly lost!
Take the left lane for a short while and then turn left down Borrans Lane, past the buildings and left at the gate for the test ride through the muddy field... at some point you have to get off and push, on through the gates to the junction and turn left to take the route to 3 rivers and down the fells past meadowplatts plantation. While racing down the rock downhill section we came across some walkers, they partially witnesses Jamie, heading head over heels under his bike after missing a corner, they later said it was comical just seeing a bike with no rider, anyway Jamie was well ahead so we all missed it, but he was OK and we headed on to get back to Wilf's for some grub and a warm up. We got back at 3pm and it was a great way to see in the first day of the new year. Next Thursday it's Ings, see you there.

28th December 2006 - Lowick Bridge

5 of us ventured out between Christmas and New Years Day, we set off from the Red Lion and went north heading for Low Nibthwaite and turning right up Bletherbarrow lane, to take the bridleway over Bethecar, heading to High Ickenthwaite, where we took the road left along Corker Lane to a bridleway at Force Forge, turn left for this little tester of a climb, then back to the road to Satterthwaite bridge and the bridleway on the left, called Moor Lane, into Grizedale forrest, we did stop for a moment to partake in some chocolate orange (cheers George). You then climb up the rock route and basically head west crossing a few fire roads until you get to High Parkamoor, watch out for the bogs and head south for the final downhill, enjoy the rock garden on the way down and then head for High Nibthwaite and back along the road, which by the time we got there was very foggy, so much so that my head lamp was no use at all and even with Jamie's HID lamp we could still only just see the side of the road, let alone 10 feet in front, so we carefully rode back. Have a good new year.

14th December 2006 - Grizedale

Here are a few words from our on the spot reporter.....
"A dry evening for all those that turned up to Grizedale Visitor center. George had given his excuses the week before – he had obviously seen the long range forecast. Chris had sent a text to the TG earlier in the day claiming a “rain check” on the grounds that Laura was ill. Grant and Joel are obviously now keenly contesting the BGB and not even trying to give excuses. It was hoped that Ian might turn up to guide us round the complex forest, but perhaps the flooding was bad in Kirkby Lonsdale. Jamie must have had enough of a wet day. Neil – we thought you were a hard core Trailquester. Too far for Paul perhaps, and we had high hopes of the ‘new’ Chris. So that left Billy (no mates) alone in the car park – Billy never got out of the van so never got wet. Hopefully you will all be shamed into turning out for a New Years day ride – hangovers or not. The plan is to meet in Stavley Woodmill yard ready to go at 10.45 on Monday 1st January 2007. We will return there for late lunch/afternoon tea at Wilfs if anyone (family etc) want to join the less energetic part of the day."
The next listed ride is on 4th January 2007 at Watermill Inn, Ings.

7th December 2006 - Elterwater for Loughrigg "Wet 'n Wild"

Well, the "Fab Four" turned up, having travelled thru' storm and flood, we were all amazed that anyone else turned up, meaning that we secretly hoped no one would show so we could go home...but it was said that RADs has never had less than 2 folk turn out (as far as I can remember and I hope that this is not tempting fate!!) Luckily Jamie turned up in his 4x4 so we figured we could always call him for help on the way home, Jamie made a mental note to turn his mobile off!
It was a tad wet and windy, but we figured there was some shelter going round the Loughrigg circuit (if only at the caves) and we could add a new section along the north east side of Loughrigg Tarn. We set off up the tarmac climb from Walthwaite Bottom to High Close, gaining some wind assistance on the way up! Jamie detoured off-road, but the rest stayed on the tarmac, we stayed in front and Jamie rejoined us on the road, then onto the road and take the right hand route off to Loughrigg Terrace. Down the singletrack and tee off right for the higher route by the caves to avoid the lake, we noticed there were a few folk sheltering in the cave and we were not sure what they made a few lights sweeping briefly in and out of the cave entrance, maybe they though we were UFO's ?? Down towards Rydall and take the under Loughrigg road, noticing that the cattle grids were under water, take the lane for a mile till the right hand lane up onto Loughrigg Fell, it's always steep, at least we were a little warmed up! Then when we neared the top of the fell the wind hit us and the descent was a tad wild, no time for cake (which we actually had, but this was not the weather to stop for a snack!) just get over the fell to shelter by the wall, then down the tricky bit, over the tree roots and down to the house near tarn foot, go thru' the first gate and turn right immediately going thru' a second gate, take the track along the Tarn and come out further along the road.
Take the road up to the youth hostel and go thru' their grounds, coming out at the top of High Close, down the tarmac and tee off left for the bridleway test thru' loads of running water, back onto the lane and the option of the second little route, over the timber bridge and down the steps, a little tricky especially in all the rain, so I slid off, but made it down in one piece. Back to the cars to get changed and into dry clothes, too wet to stop for a drink so off home, just wondering where Joel and Grant have gone...? A comment was also heard 'does my bum look wet in this'??? (answers on a postcard...).
Next week its Grisedale, meet at the visitors centre, last one before Christmas so come on down and join the fun.

30th November 2006 - Staveley for Kentmere

7 riders met up at Barley bridge, despite the rain, even Grant turned up! Paul (aka new dad) also turned up, apparently to collect some beer he won in a bet with Jim, at least they were baby bottles! Jamie turned up having ridden from home in the rain, madness! Then Inge turned up in the car, apparently Jamie forgot his thermals or something.... Joke!
Paul also entertained us with his light show -he had formulated fairy lights on his bike to look like a Christmas tree! (challenge Joel).
There was some debate at the start, which way to go? as it was a tad wet, most views were to stay in the cars and drink Paul’s beer, but we set off over the bridge up the tarmac track and the usual anti-clockwise route down to Long houses along the road to Kentmere Church, up the track and over fell, to take the route down thru' the 2 fords. Where at the first ford crossing I got a wet foot and then going down the grassy hill I slipped thru' a muddy section and fell off into the mire! A new grippy front tyre is required!
Down the hill thru' the second ford and past the rocky descent, past the houses turn right thru' the gate and on to the farm and up the little testing climb. Charlie challenged Paul to a bet that if she could clean ride the last little climb, she could win half the beers? When we got to the last little climb, which used to be a very technical tester, we found that it was being graded with compacted hardcore material for vehicle access and so it was easily rideable! Paul thought that something was up, so he kept all the beers.
Back at the cars and everyone wanted to go home for hot baths or 40 winks, so no pub time! Next time we may also get some of Longsleddale in, if the weather is kind... Next week: 7th December it's Britannia Inn, Elterwater - Loughrigg Terrace.

23rd November 2006 - Haverthwaite

7 riders met up at the Anglers Arms, Haverthwaite, the weather held off and the stars came out. Luckily Ian turned up to lead the route (another 2 hour ride!) same as last year, so here goes for a description...
Head from the pub turning left down the road, then take a left turn on the B5278 for a few hundred yards then turn off left by the glass works to take the bridleway running parallel to the river Leven. It's a good test especialy after the wet weather and with the leaf cover, once thru' the top gate take the lane to the road and head up the switch back to a left turn onto the fell. Head north east along singletrack including some up and downs, thru' streams and over rocks, keep your momentum and you may be OK, otherwise a little walking is involved! End up around Canny Hill and take the lane by Crook Hill to cross the main A590 to take a little lane to Barrow Banks, there turn left and head up a lane and then a fire road UP into the forrest, using easy gears for a while. After a bit there is a bridleway to the left side and we stopped for a bite to eat, luckily Joel had passed me the cake George bought last week, so we did not go hungrey! Blast down the grassy hill to Staveley in Cartmel and take the road to Newby Bridge, keep right and head on the road to Lakeside, pick out a track thru' great knott wood and end up towards town end then take a left turn onto a great downhill track thru' turner wood and down to a road by the railway, head back via some 'singletrack' and back to the pub for beer & crisps. A good ride with a few climbs, tests and some downhill! Next week it's Kentmere Meet at Barley Bridge, exact route TBA.

16th November 2006 - Witherslack

6 met at Gilpin Bridge Inn on a damp evening (this may have put some folks off?) after checking that new Grandad was alright, he said he was fine but not sure about Paul, mucking out ponies and learning about nappies, or the other way round!! Anyway Congratulations to Paul & Angela on the birth of Emily Grace, we had a wee drink afterwards to celebrate.
So we set off out of the car park and headed along the new Sustrans path to the new bridge (over the main drain!) to avoid the main road, we headed into a shower of rain and hailstones, but we kept going, if only to warm up. And this we did heading up the bridleway past Ravens Lodge, where it appeared George was on a mission, Joel and Charlie thought they should keep up and so it went on, each person thinking they were getting out of breath but chasing the others!! Anyway we all tried to memorise the route up, where the rocks and tree roots were and also where the holes are, so that on the last downhill we may have a better chance of staying on the bikes. The main hurdle this night was going to be all the leaves lying on the ground hiding the obstacles.
We took the usual route right though Beck Head along the bridleway to the road and right to Witherslack Hall farm, take the left track, thru' the gates and on to Yewbarrow, now you have to pick the correct path, head to the right and look for the gate, of course it's Bloody dark so you need to sense the gate...5 riders went to the right, 1 went left, 5 riders were headed up Yewbarrow in the dark...so I called them back to the gate. Now for a re-group and the offer of cake, praise to George, Charlie and Neil for all bringing cake, actually Joel had George's cake (he can't carry so much these days..!!) Joel offered to keep the cake for next week and we tucked into Charle's muffins (the first ever batch from the new cooker in the new kitchen, apparently) Neil's cakes were supurb, Thanks to Sue.
So now for the reward down the singletrack to Church Road, George went first, I followed, it was bloody slippy with those leaves, I fish-tailed around and ended up hitting a little tree, this was an achievement as the tree was not near to singletrack! I could just hear Joel laughing in the background, asking if I wanted another bash? Onward we went slipping down the track, avoiding the drop-off down the cliff edge! but we all made it down on one piece. Back on the road and blast down the tarmac to get back to the final downhill, through the leafy glade and with relief reach the last gate, back over the main drain and home. Quick clean up and into the pub where Grandad bought us all a drink, Cheers. Next week it's Anglers Arms, Haverthwaite - 'the single-track special'

9th November 2005 - Claife

It was a cold winters night...but still 8 turned out and met at Claife Crier Bar, Sawrey Hotel, Far Sawrey, some folk even took the ferry to enjoy a moonlit sail across the lake, apparently they were not even charged, but they did not go back via the ferry in case they were rumbled! After much messing about getting ready and deciding what to wear, one layer or five? we set off up the bridleway next to the hotel heading north, this route gets us out at the top of a great descent down to the lake side, in daylight it is a challenge but with a little moon light it seemed enjoyable. We then went north along the lake, we kept going passed Bell Grange (and so did not take the steps up the hill) and headed past the parking area at Red Nab and took a left turn around Bella Wray , up a track to get us onto the scab moss forrest track, along the way we nearly lost Grant & Joel, too much chat at the back, but they found us...so we carried on. At the track we had a little discussion on direction, but as it was cold we kept it simple, head right and round to the guide posts, where we had a snack break, Jamie & CT competing for the best chocolate snack, next time we must make the effort and bring something home produced, now who was it that volunteered....?
No time to stand and get cold, take the first track on the left and enjoy the tricky descent at the bottom turn right and head immediately up another tricky rocky route, a quick regroup at the intersection and upwards up another tester to get into the woods and continue out onto the open fells and head down past Wise Een & Moss Eccles Tarns. Carry on down and take the left turn at the second gate, heading back to Far Sawrey, there is a small ford to cross over Wilfin Beck, which looked reasonable, but CT made a meal of it, George rode past and Joel stopped laughing and caused a pile up behind him, no time to stop it was too cold, race back to the cars and head for the bar to warm up those toes.
Next week its Gilpin Bridge Inn, Lyth Valley - will someone make cake???

2nd November 2006 - Lowick Bridge

5 riders met on a frosty clear and moon lit night for a most excellent adventure. As this was Ian's backyard he was to lead out, he decided to head north east just for a change. It went something like this...we left the Red Lion and crossed over the main road, take the first left over the bridge head north to Nibthwaite Grange where we turned right into Bletherbarrow lane, Ian slowed down because of gear trouble, but he kept going up the lane. A short while later we noticed that one side link to Ian's chain had actually broken and shouted for him to stop, thereafter we (i.e. Jamie) mended the chain with some gold SRAM connectors, we had to get Ian back on the bike as he was guiding us! Then we were off up the tarmac lane, which seemed to go on and on, but Ian said you need some climbing pain to enjoy the downhills later. After a while you come to a track and head on to meet the route we take from Oxen Park, this then leads to a fast downhill section to High Ickenthwaite, turn left onto Corker Lane. Continue down the lane and turn left at the next road junction, Force Forge Farm, after a few hundred meters look for a bridleway on the left, this is testing short cut to Satterthwaite, you need to commit to the climbs and rocky sections, but it's rewarding!
Then carrying on up the main road to just before Satterthwaite bridge and take the bridleway on your left, being Moor Lane, which also happens to go UP, this section is an even bigger test, but we were eventually rewarded with chocolate covered caramel buscuits, cheers Charlie! We were now headed west to Parkamoor but first had to navigate through the forrest and a few more rocky sections, great training for Scotland! Now we came out onto Parkamoor where there are a few muddy puddles and while Charlie managed to detour around one puddle Ian's front wheel took a nose dive into the mud and thus muddy feet were a reward!
Now we were to take the track south west to High nibthwaite, this descent Ian promised was a treat and the reward for all the climbing, he did warn of a few rocky drop offs to lookout for! Jamie and Ian took off first, but this track turned out to be Four Star, it easily made you appreciate all the effort to get there, especially on this moon lit frosty night, where the near full moon did allow some peripheral vision and a glimpse of Coniston water. We rode back along the road and back to the pub to get cold toes warmed up by the fire and to agree that we must do that again!! Next week meet at The Sawrey Hotel, Far Sawrey for Lakeshore and Claife Heights.

26th October 2006 - Winster

The storey went something like this...8 folk met up near the church in Winster, another rider was due but he could not find the secret meeting place! To start head south along the lane until the ford at Birks Bridge, cross the ford or take the little stone bridge, you chose? then climb up the steep hill, turn right at Cote Hill and take the lane past the pond, ride on down to high house and the muddy section before the road, here the route went right, past the pub and on to find the bridleway on the left hand side up past Bow Mabble Breast! then take the left lane to the road a right turn and then a quick left onto a lane near Barrow Plantation, back to the cars via the road.
These events were passed on to the blog via various phone conversations, including the fact that there were 2 new riders, James & Co, welcome and do visit again. Next ride 2 November is The Red Lion at Lowick, bring fancy hat illuminations if you are late!

19th October 2006 - Elterwater, Tilberthwaite

9 Riders set out with charged lights and new pumps (just in case). It was a dark but mild evening and we also welcomed a new face (riding a rigid bike and who is also a mechanic, useful in case Jamie gets bored!) and a TG came along to see if you never forget to ride a bike! After much discussion...
..we set of up the lane for the shortest route to the quarry, it was a bit rocky and steep, so much for the easy warm up. Head past the quarry and up through the wood, drop down through the trees, turn right through the gate and down the track past Dale End to the road. Then take a quick left and right to head for the ford, where shall we go now?... Ian submitted a route with 3 downhills, yells of delight were heard until it was pointed out that there would probably be 3 climbs!
From the ford head left round the track to the farm and take the right hand turn up the hill, head down to hodge close and continue through the new gate heading for the 'play area' after riding downhill over the slate path which sounds like breaking glass combined with a wind chime! Head for High Tilbertwaite and turn right up the tracks, enjoy the rocky testing sections and attack those hills, at the bottom take the right turn, past the houses and watch out for the cleaned out water gullies. Ian held the last gate and we cycled onto the ford for a re-group, there was some delay and TG said I wonder if Ian's caught a pinch flat, later George came along asking for a spare inner tube for Ian! so Jamie lent/hired him one, George said for us to go ahead and they would catch up, but no we all stood firm and said we would wait... or at least that's the official line... at least we would make time for a beer. While waiting someone mentioned cake, a winter night-time tradition, unfortunately no cake was forthcoming, several hints were dropped and some excuses, like I have no kitchen were heard, maybe next week?
In a while Ian & George came along and we headed to high park to go along the route through the NT wood, another testing rocky route spits us out at the road to Elterwater near Colwith, we all headed back to the car park and then a beer. George had to shoot off early and we witnessed a large bounder jumping up and hitting his car and that was before the beer! Back in the pub we discussed medical science, the NHS and which areas of Scotland to visit, 7 Stanes fans watch this space.
Next week its the ride from Winster, park near to the church.

12th October 2006 - Ings, Garburn Pass

7 of us (Jamie, Grant, George, Ian, Neil, Joel and David) set off from the Watermill Inn at Ings, the usual ride, all up hill and then the downhill to Kentmere Hall. Then we all began the push in the dark to the top of Garburn, it was a warm evening so we stopped to admire the view, the stars were out and the glow of Lancaster and Morecambe at 9pm was an unusual sight.
I'd forgotten to charge my lights so was having to ride by others lights, and then cross my fingers and switch on when it got a bit tricky!
Then we began the descent of Garburn, which certainly made up for all the pushing in the dark. Jamie punctured about half way down so we all gathered at the gate and waited for him and David. David had lost light power so was feeling his way back and we could make out the faint glow of the remains of his lights in the distance. We all decided to escort him back as the only solution as it was getting late.
We took the left fork towards Dubbs with David at the center of the group, and then he punctured. This was a little unfortunate as he was the only one with Shrader valves and as no one else had a shrader pump except him, we all watched and gave encouragement (?) as we discussed whether the pub would still be open on our return.
It was around 10.20 when we finally got back for last orders, alas no chips but we were lucky to find it still open!

A top tip for next week: REMEMBER TO CHARGE YOUR LIGHTS!

Next Week 19th October: Britannia Inn, Elterwater for Iron Keld and Tilberthwaite

5th October 2006 - Barbon Inn, Barbon

Where is everyone? Grant thought he'd made a location error!

It was a dark, wet night, the wind was howling as 2 brave riders ventured out onto the Barbon fell (I think the big girls blouse can now be passed on... maybe to George 'It's raining outside so I'm not going' Tyson).
It was the usual routine, up the hill, along the terrace (trying to avoid the migrating frogs) and then the left turn up the bridleway and then back to the road for the up hill towards Brownthwaite, it was wet under foot, and there was a strange sensation of hearing a roaring torrent of water before you saw it, all the small trickles of the summer months were now rivers a foot deep! To add to this, our lights were now light saber's cutting through the thick mist.
We finally left the mist behind at Bullpot Farm where we scared (?) a couple parked up at the junction, they probably saw 2 sets of headlights heading straight for them as we emerged through the mist before the sharp left turn off road.
There was again a lot of water as we took the final rocky decent back to the road at Barbon Beck, riding the stream seemed to be the easiest route as the grass was boggy.
Looking at the river it was too deep and fast moving to even attempt the crossing, it was brown and choppy, so rather than being swept away we crossed using the bridge and then set off for the final descent through the woods which was surprisingly dry.

On arriving back at the church around 9pm Ian turned up with his new set of lights, apparently he would have come out but his lights only arrived that morning so it was off to the pub for a drink!

Next week: 6:45 Watermill at Ings - Garburn Pass before it get (too) icy. Let's just hope it's not raining!!

28th September 2006 - Hawkshead for the North Face route

This was the first night ride for the season, 7 riders turned up at Hawkshead car park so we could set off through the village and on up the new bridleway, past Walker Ground and on up a rocky track towards Low Park where we meet up with the North Face route at a fire-road junction, we just had to remember where we were, so that we find the track and enjoy the descent on the way back. Now we started into the trees for the route to Moor Top, on the first boardwalk section Jamie had a puncture! so we all stopped on the board walk and waited a few seconds while he fixed it and we also learnt that Ian's battery had given up, so he was on borrowed time. We got to Moor Top and Ian borrowed my back-up light (which had about 25 minute run time) so Ian could enjoy the descent to the visitor centre. Here he decided to carry on, with a combination of moon light (not much) and navigation by feel!!!
We all enjoyed the downhill and even Neil who had not been on the North Face before was enjoying the ride through the trees, of course now we hit the up hill climb, which was a little damp and testing in places, but all OK at the top. We continued on with Ian riding amunst us to get some light and Jamie's HID giving an hazy blue glow ahead of us. Grant kept asking if there was any more boardwalk left, we all said no, just close your eyes and feel the force! At least Grant had his 2 lights working!!
The forrest is a great place to ride at night, especially as the stars were out, we left the car cark at around 7pm we got back at 9.30pm, no inclination for chips as it was too late, so see you next time. Next week its Baron.

21st September 2006 - Gilpin Bridge, Witherslack, Yewbarrow

This was to be the last summer ride of 2006 before the winter 'Night Rides' start, so a short ride was planned with a meal organised at the Gilpin Bridge after. 12 riders started, a few with lights (just in case) and we were honored with a couple of spectators, one with camera, who travelled around the route in a van, looking like paparazzi, watch out the daily star!!
The quick route round is to take the new bridleway from the pub going west to join up with the old road and head to Raven's Lodge to take the bridleway underneath White Scar, try to remember the route , especially where the wall has fallen down, for the return journey when it maybe dark! Drop down through Buckhouse wood and into Millside, turn sharp right to Beck Head and on towards the road leading Witherslack Hall Farm, turn left and left again, head south down a track to Yewbarrrow, at this point while I closed the gate, I looked out for Jamie, as if he was late he would have caught us up by now. Head into the woods to enjoy the singletrack downhill to Church Road, where the paparazzi were once again found to be flashing! (photos to follow)
Enjoy a quick race back through Town End to Millside and take the downhill though the woods under White Scar back home, only this time there were 13 riders, as you've gessed it Jamie had caught us up!! Back to the pub to meet up and head in for a meal enjoyed by 15 of us, where we reviewed the summer rides and discussed the winter route selection. Watch out for the full list soon to be published.
Next week it's the first winter ride, (so bring lights), we will meet at Hawkshead car park 6.45pm and try out the new link bridleway into Grisedale forrest and do some (if not all) of the North face route and we can get back to Hawkshead for a drink.

Sunday 17th September 2006 - Grisedale Challenge

6 of us turned up at the Grisedale Mountain Bike Challenge and 5 of us had entries, Ian just cruised round some of the course! The idea is to challenge yourself not so much a race as it's a mass start, there were 602 entires and in the end 482 finished within the time limit. The route was about 32 miles and included the North Face trail as the last section, which was good although the rocks and boardwalks were slippy, but that's MTB'ing in Cumbrian weather.
Check out the web site at GMBC.co.uk or look at the photos at http://www.mountain-bike-cumbria.co.uk/photography/gmbc2006/index.html cheers Jamie.
For the record Harry came 13th in the juniors (3 hr 13) , Ed came 33rd in the vets (3hr 20) and I came 73rd, Jamie (on a hard-tail) came 81st in the seniors (3 hr 09) and Trevor came 175th in the seniors (3 hr 46, but he should be with the rest of us in the vets???) but we all had a good time, someone was heard to say it needed more miles but I was quite happy to get round in 3 hours and 45 minutes thank you!

14th September 2006 - Elterwater for Loughrigg Terrace

5 riders met at Elterwater following a day of rain, so a few had fallen by the wayside! This was to be the Loughrigg Terrace ride but ending at the pub, "Hurrah" said Ian. We set off a little after time and headed over Walthwaite Bottom (the common) for High Close, with a couple of keen riders attempting the off road climbing sections..whatever next! Past the youth hostel and on down the road to get onto the Terrace, try the tester rocks at the start and then enjoy the downhill all the way to Rydal Water. Climb up and over to the lane that runs along the River Rothay and warm-up for the next climb. Turn right UP the lane after Brow Head farm and select a suitable gear, Joel struggled in middle ring for a while (catching Grants gremlins) and shot off ahead (he had no choice) but he finally got granny gear. Ian made if all the way to the first gate (or so he said) and celebrated with a Mars Bar!
We kept going up the climb until the second gate at the top and tried to get over the next rocky section without dabbing, no luck today. Now for another enjoyable downhill, after evading 2 barking dogs (very exited to see MTBer's) down to the gate and them the rocky section in the gloom, we made it OK. Then we rode down to the road and back along to the youth hostel to take to the lower track and join the road at the top of High Close for the last off road. The first section was fine, but there is a second section lower down which starts off with 2 little boardwalk type bridges, the first one has a little drop off tester but the second one is more of a test as you have to turn left immediately after the bridge and it is steep. It was dark so we were feeling our way, except Joel who seemed to have his 30W lamps fitted this evening! anyway the turn was a little tricky and although I made it round the turn by the next section of stepping rocks my SPD came out and somehow I ended up in the stream with wet feet! We then continued down through the boggy sections of the common and cycled back to the pub, only to find that my water bottle had come out, so Joel and I cycled back up to the technical section to look for it and also test ourselves again now we knew about the drop off and turn. This time was better and I found my bottle in the stream!
Back to the pub for beer and chips and role on the winter rides! Next week it's Gilpin Bridge for a short ride and a meal afterwards, all are welcome. PS Happy 5th brithday to Laura.

7th September 2006 - Barbon

11 riders turned up for the start, one even rode out from Milnthorpe (guess who?) a few set out early to start the climbs and the others set off a few minutes later. The usual route up the lane, bottom gear to start, then we waited at the cattle grid, P,J & G were a little while, as they wiated for Trev' & Harry, now we were 13. Turn right down the side of the hill and then left UP the bridleway trying not to dab, always a challenge!... continue along the lane to the road and prepare for another steep road climb. While we waited at the road Grant asked for assistance changing gear! so Jamie gave a hand and we all suggested using a sledge hammer!! Whilst waiting Simon turned up from the road, having arrived a little late, so now it was 14. Again a few riders set off up the hill to get a head start, we continued up the lane and at the left turn onto the bridgeway, we all made it to the top of the bridgeway and re-grouped with added numbers.
After a brief rest to admire the view, blue skys and lack of wind (as it is usually blowing a dale) we continued on up the track. Remember after the first gate that there is a fork in the track and you go straight on ignoring the track to the left, after a crest over the hill head down a few yards to a gate. Now it's basically downhill and watch out for the muddy puddles, one particular spot seems like clay!! I closed the gate a jumped on Jamie's bike to give it a test, only I needed a step ladder to reach the saddle and of course could not peddle whilst sitting in the saddle, so it made for an interesting descent down the lane, luckily we swapped for the off road tricky rocky descent that we all enjoy!!
Down to the road with no events, re-group and head through the ford (for wet feet Jamie and Harry) or over the foot bridge then down through the woods with lights if you were lucky or in the dark if not, Paul & Ian clashed while deciding which route to take! Back to the pub for chips & beer. Another grat Bardon ride of UP and Down.
Next week it's Elterwater, Britannis Inn for Loughrigg Terrace & more...

31st August 2006 - Cartmel

Four riders Ian ,Jamie ,Paul and George turned up for the Cartmel ride and despite the continuous rain we had suffered all day it actually stopped raining and never rained until we were packing the bikes back on the cars. We set off to moans from Ian out of Cartmel Park along the road towards Grange and past the Fell golf course to head over Hampsfell. The descent down to Cartmel was spoilt by tractor tracks and being paddled by cows. We were wary of the cows with calves as they were reluctant to move off the track. We then headed across the bridleway from Anysome to Cartmel and the deep stream helped wash the mud from our bikes, except Ian found a stone bridge in the trees which we never new existed. We then headed for Speel bank and over to Mount Barnard followed by a ride in the dark down to Cartmel Park.
Thanks to George for the update, well done, next ride is Barbon.

Tuesday 29th August 2006 - Blackpool "Ride the Lights"

6 Intrepid riders made it to Blackpool on this late summer August evening to celebrate the Tour of Britain and the fact that the Blackpool promenade was to be closed to motorised vehicles between 8-10pm and the lights would be switched on early. We parked up near the south pier area (be aware of the parking attendant they were out in force) and got the bikes ready and decided to layer up due to the chilly wind off the coast. Jim hardly remembered how to ride a bike and Charlie dressed up like a Christmas tree.
So the first stop was a chip shop for a sit down fish and chip supper, a bit early for a RADS ride but it was a bit windy. After this we raced off down the road for 300 yards to the promenade, where we met the closed road signs and turned left to join the masses of leisure cycles. We had to adjust our normal style of riding to cope with the flat terrain and lots of folks on bikes, it was a sight to behold.
There were police bikes patrolling up and down and each road intersection was closed to cars, we made it safely down to the southern turn-a-round point and then found that we turned into a head wind, great resistance training, but Jims legs were not responding to his brain signals (nothing new there then, I hear you say... just kidding!!) so we were in for a battle against the wind as well as negotiating around all the other cyclists, kids on trikes, tow along bikes and all sorts. We even heard on the tanoy radio that a certain fast food joint were giving out free burgers to cyclists, but we never managed to check this out.
Once past the tower and the north pier we soon made it to the northern turning point, which was supposed to give a ride of about 4 miles, on the return journey there was less traffic (less children) and we were on the look out for Tour vehicles staying at the hotels, we found a load of team cars and some mechanics out cleaning bikes at 9.30pm, fair play. We also had to find a late night shop selling a stick of rock for Charlies sweet tooth! Then we had to head back and find where we parked the car! All in all a sucessfull nite and no rain.

24th August 2006 - Bouth, Oxen Park, Rusland

9 riders met at the White Hart, Bouth all ready to go...except someone forget their SPD's, never mind just ride carefully! Head off north (turning left out of the pub car park) and take the left fork at High Longmire to get to Oxen Park, a quick right and left (basically straight over) and continue along the lane until Bandrake head and take a lane to the right up a hill. This lane gets to a farm at Abbot Park and then goes off-road, take a right turn at Three Foot Oak and enjoy the downhill to the road at High Ickenthwaite, Ian, Jamie and Harry won that one.
Turn left along Corker Lane head down to the next junction and turn left at Force Forge, there is a bridleway on the left and take this little testing climb up and over, forming a shortcut to the road, then turn right and head back to Force Mills, Dave had lost his waterbottle and so had to go back over the bridleway and turn left to meet us at Force Mills (no luck finding the bottle!) At the junction turn south and take a bridleway on the left (virtually at the road junction) this takes you over Thwaite Moss to another enjoyable downhill where we meet 3 guys, 2 on Quad-bikes and one on a Honda 50, after we came down they headed up the rocks at speed!
Turn right and right again at the lane then at the road turn left for a few hundred metres, then take a lane on the right for a little road climb, where Phil enjoyed his singlespeed!!! this then gets you back at High Ickenthwaite to take the first bridleway on the left, where Ed (the camera man) went ahead to set up (we'll wait to see the pic's?) after the photo shoot there was a split in the group with Ian taking Neil, Dave and Ed on a detour, which went south west to take the Lord Ling bridleway route back to Oxen Park and then the road to Colton, turn left to the church and continue through the woods to come out west of Bouth. Meanwhile I headed on the track to meet up with the others and inform them of Ian's rough plans, so we headed back on track and lane to Oxen Park and then road back to the pub in time for chips...in fact Ian's crew also made in back for chips, so far play to the pub (even at £2.25 per portion).
All in all a very good route and Phil singlespeed even had a smile on his face, next week it's Cartmel racecourse ride at 6.15pm, but on Tuesday at Blackpool Prom' it's "Ride the Lights" in support of the Tour of Britain.

17th August 2006 - Grizedale, The North Face

8 riders met up at the Grizedale visitors centre, where it had just started to rain, so Gortex came out (for those who remembered to pack some...) and off we went to follow the North Face route, so up the track and test out those timber boardwalk sections! The trail was a little damp but it was not torrential rain and so the climbing was tricky but manageable, just ride carefully on the timber. We came to a halt about half way up the first climb section when John suffered a broken chain, being gallant John said we should push on and he and Fred would catch up if he could repair the chain successfully, so we set off...never to see them again! Now it was down to six.
Basically the trail goes east and north from the visitor centre through Grizedale and Monk Coniston Moor and reaches Moor Top for the last downhill section back to the cars, on the last section CT managed to ride the narrow log plank witnessed by Paul, on later dicussion on how to do this plank ride, "just don't think about it!!"
Next week meet at White Hart, Bouth 6.15pm

10th August 2006 - Ings to Garburn

11 turned out for the Garburn challenge, which way round...in the end we went anti-clockwise. Head up the lane to Grassgarth and the bridleway across Mickle Moss to the fords and down to Kentmere Hall, carry on past the church turning left to head UP Crabtree Brow and onto Garburn Pass. We all enthusiastically started riding up the lane and one by one ended up pushing at some point, we eventually reached Garburn Nook and sat down for a moment while Joel took some "on top of the Pass" photos (they may appear in the future) then we headed off for the downhill, Ian taking the lead! only to get his first puncture within a few hundred metres! after that we took off again for a while longer...then puncture number 2 for Ian.
We then took the first left to take us down Dubbs Road and head back along the Ings road to the cars and a pub stop.
Next week meet at Grizedale Visitors Centre for 6.15pm to take on the North Face Ride.

3 August 2006 - Askham - Loadpot Hill

We all met at the Askham outdoor swimming pool car park, well when I say all there were 4 (Grant, Fred, John, Joel)... we then consulted the map to determine the route and then we were off, and then Jamie arrived, and then five of us set off.

We followed the route out of Askham to Helton on the road, through Helton and then a second right on to the rough track towards Cockle Hill (again the map comes in handy).

En route we noticed a number of red markers had been set along our path and it was mentioned that it was considerate of Jim to have placed the markers for the hard of map reading.

At this point it was all up hill on the grassy hill that climbs up towards high street, luckily it was a warm and dry evening, and then someone mentioned the summit at 2200ft… we were currently a lot less than that and then someone’s chain broke (joel). Luckily, Jamie was on hand with some spare SRAM links and then we were off, err, well, we continued pushing to the top.

Although most of us cursed our way to the top, we were all impressed to see Jamie enjoy the ride and it was worth it for the view and the sunset.




There was also a photo opportunity at the summit before we prepared to descend!

The descent was worth it, all 2200ft of it!

We stopped off half way at the Lords Seat for another view over Ulswater, and then it was downhill for the final section, across the crossroads at Ketley Gate (ah, the map again) and the all downhill across Askham Fell.

It was too late for a pub stop when we got back to Askham around 9.30pm so we all set off home.

Next week, 10 August: Park at The Watermill at Ings 6.15, YES the earlier time of 6.15 for the ride up or down Garburn Pass (Brasher boots and map cases optional).

27th July 2006 - Elterwater - Hodge Close

It was a warm and dry evening as we met up at the National Trust car park in Elterwater. The last thing on our minds was a ride out as an alternative evening was already there in front of us, ‘The Britannia offers a sanctuary away from hectic daily life with ales and foods to satisfy all tastes’, ahhh… not my words, the Britannia’s (http://www.britinn.co.uk/).

Eventually 9 of us (Fred, John, George, Paul, Jamie, Grant, Ian, Neil and Joel) set off using Ian’s alternative route, riding towards Chapel Stile, past the camp site and then taking a right across the field towards Oak Howe, following the track to Baysbrow at the back of the campsite. (I’ve had to consult the map, it’s all new to me!)

Ian mentioned the Langdale slab, and we all stopped to play on the slab of rock around the bridleway that passes Spoutcrag Quarry before heading on towards Little Langdale and the ford, a few of us attempted the crossing, it was still a warm evening and in the barmy warm weather a few of us had more than wet feet in the attempt but we soon dried off.

At the ford we headed right which caused much discussion, this meant that a long climb was inevitable, and rather than this being the descent later on this was now the climb! We headed up past the climbing huts towards High Tilberthwaite, doubling back on the bridleway and turning off at the playground (hopping off the tree roots) and then on to High Oxen Fell or was it Low Oxen Fell? some of us missed the turning and we all regrouped at the entrance to Tongue Intake plantation for rollercoaster downhill fun and the last descent of the evening, another technical/puncture free evening and we all ended up in the Britannia for a well deserved drink, some of us even managed to get chips and Jamie managed to obtain soup of the day.

Next week: meet at 6.30, Askham: Swimming pool car pk, behind Queen's Head for Loadpot Hill and long descent from High Street.

20th July 2006 - Torver - Walna Scar

Six turned out for the ride over Walna Scar, everyone was relieved to see Jim for his assistance with directions and his van for the return leg of the journey. We set off through the forest and on advice chose the fire road rather than the technical climb from Stephenson Ground. With little rain it was almost dry across the boggy section described on the map as Yaud Mire! At this point it almost starts to flatten off, but as we rode past the disused quarries and rounded the corner the rest of the climb unfolded in front of us, Walna Scar road stretched ahead into the clouds.
Rod took it in his stride to push to the top and offered a commentary as his did so, while some of us enthusiastically attempted the climb. We all regrouped at the top of the climb to admire the view, probably one of the best on a RADs ride.Then there's the descent which is probably one of most challenging, frightening, and longest of the Lakes rides but worth all the previous pushing and climbing. We all passed the place that George did his flying impression last year without incident, and I do recall crossing myself at this point after the scary descent of Walna (some kindly said I was floating, but I just recall a total lack of control!!). We finally dropped down to the road in Torver without a single puncture (a relief after last weeks 9 puncture record!), and luckily Jim 'van man' was there to ferry us back up Hummer Lane and then it was off to the pub in Torver for a cool beer...Next week Elterwater

13th July 2006 - Hawshead - Claiffe

10 riders ventured out, some travelling by train and automobile just to get out to ride, it was the 13th but not a Friday, so we set out. Head to Colthouse and take Scar House Lane for a little bit of overgrown off road, then go up the road to Outgate to turn right down Spicka Coppice, known as 'snake bite alley'! We had our first THREE punctures, Rod even got his patches and glue out which gave Jamie a laugh... we ride on to find Harry also had a flat FOUR (that's Paul's trick, wait by the gate and then find a puncture). We then made about 300m to the other end of the tarn and Jamie made it FIVE, now we were nervous. We then set off again and got to the lane ,BUT one more made it SIX!
We made it past High Wray and to base camp headed up the fire road to the guide posts, where the first 4 riders turned right and head on, the others regrouped at the guide posts thinking we had more time for at least some off-road, if not the whole of Claiffe, so I phoned Jamie and the 4 came back, but Rod & co set off for an alternative route (thinking they may get a pub in!). The 8 remaining took the left route from the posts down the rocky descent to the bottom where Jamie had No. SEVEN, we then climbed up the tester, right at the top and back to the guide posts, then left and head back to Hawkshead down the rocky route.
We bombed down the hill enjoying a little too much and I had No. EIGHT, then at the bottom we found Harry mending No. NINE, and I was running out of fingers to count the snake bites. A quick blast back to the cars and meet up with Rod, who luckily had not had any more flats! A few beers helped restore calm, must pump those tyres up for next week!
Next week its Torver (possibly with the van shuttle).

6th July 2006 - Sedbergh to Dent ride

7 riders met up in the free car park in Sedbergh, all willing to ride to Dent down a beer, maybe some chips and take the scenic route back over Frostrow Fells. So it went something like this...head south on the Dales Way route over the River Rawthey take the first left turn into Millthrop and then a quick right hand turn (which we missed first time round!) but Fred had gone on ahead and found the turn no problem.
Head out on the bridleway, through Gap Wood and down past Gate Manor, cross over the road and head down to the ford, choose the beck crossing or the bridge (built in 1999, so before that we all got wet feet!) we chose the bridge. Head on up the lane following the Dales Way route east to Gawthrop turn right and head UP a steep road climb for about 1 mile, then take the left hand bridleway, its a green lane along South Lord's Land, after another mile of stony track, turn left for an enjoyable rocky descent down into Dent. Check your tyre pressure, 'cause Paul had another flat on the way down and everyone said 'it's basically rideable now!'
We nipped into the Sun Inn for a few chips, soup and some beer, Fred set off early again to get a head start, saying he knew the way. We set off a few minutes later and went round the back of Dent to take the back lanes to Barth Bridge take this lane up Hining Hill go left past the cottage and through some gates between some stone walls, follow these stone walls, its basically an old track up to the moor top, beware of some boggy bits!
At the top, we were sheltering from some heavy mist (that's rain to somefolk) and turned left along the wall,you then have to make your way feeling for the bridleway route and by this point we had not caught Fred up or he had not caught us up! We pressed on thinking that he had missed the turn and headed back on the road. You basically follow the bridleway by taking a north west direction to get to Side farm, High Hollins, it may have been easier to navigate in better daylight... back down the lanes, turn left through Millthrop and back to the cars, but no Fred, was he down the pub? John had no spare keys so eventually Paul set off down the road looking for Fred, after a while Jamie volunteered to drive back to the bridleway route, at this point Fred turned up, asking where we had got to? He had in fact taken the bridleway route and enjoyed the ride!
Next week its meet at Hawkshead for a ride round Claiffe.

29th June 2006 - Grizedale bridleways

9 riders started from a lay-by 300m south of Satterthwaite at the bottom of Moor Lane bridleway, which would be the last route back. We set off throught Satterthwaite village and onto the steep testing track up Breasty Haw, on through the forrest to enjoy a great technical downhill to come out at the lane. We then went approx 300m up the road to take the bridleway on the left up into the forrest, more testing track, then a right hand turn onto a fire road, some single track, a broken chain (Jamie on a hard tail 'cause the susser had broken, what next!) then a right heading for the 'Fox' then right and onto Moor Top car park, where we were going to head down the North face route to the visitor centre. At this point there were mutterings about midges and have we got time for chips, so we headed down the trails by Hall Wood to meet up with Moor Lane and a final descent to the cars.
Next week meet at Sedburgh centre car park, for possibly a Dent ride out.

22nd June 2006 - Ribblehead to Hawes

7 riders ventured out to meet at a grid reference, approx one mile east of Ribblehead. This day was the longest day (nearly) for a Thursday nite ride and last year the Horton in Ribblesdale ride had been in glorious sunshine, but alas this nite 'was blowing a small gale so we were hoping to find shelter behind stone walls. Any body who read the email tennis was packing food in all pockets, no cornflakes but some fresh fruit.
We headed off east down the Dales Way, the old roman road and took the bridge over the stream thinking we'd save the water splash for the return leg (except Jamie who just rode it 'cause it was only ankle deep, for him) and onward up the hill to seemingly endless false summits, we pass some motorbikes heading down to Horton and one bike had a puncture rear type and was very unsteady but had to carry on. The route was steady but there were a few muddy puddles from the latest rain and our drivechains were getting muddy and giving a few problems (for some) we reached the high point at the Cam High road and then turned left to follow the West Cam Road heading to Hawes, but don't forget to take the right fork at the junction with the Cam Road, which was to be our return route. Some folks asked if we were half way yet...No.
After a while we eventually reached some downhill and I checked my brake pads 'cause the mud was eating them alive, still a very enjoyable grassy downhill towards Hawes, take a left turn alone a lane to High Bands and bands Lane and then left again to the Cam Road. This involves some steady climbing up a rocky track past a forrestry plantation until we met up with the West Cam Road again. John had the misfortune to puncture on this leg, but it was soon fixed. Probably half way now or at least we were on the return leg!
Daylight was starting to fail ('cause it was a little cloudy!) so we pushed on and met the Cam High road and set off on the long downhill back to the start, we regrouped at the bridleway fork with the Horton route and then continued down the fun descent, although it was a little tricky in the dark! We made it back to the beck crossing and Jamie waited by the lower gate (and was eaten alive by midges, well done!) We headed for the cars, Jim & Paul took their time and we eventually went back to see what was up and you guessed it Paul had a puncture.
So all in all if we would have had a sunny evening, no punctures, no chit chat, no gossip then maybe, just maybe we would have made it back in daylight!!! Some say it was a classic of its own, some say it was an epic, perhaps this was a classic epic.
Next week its Grisedale, meet Moor Lane car park, 400m S of Satterthwaite (337920).

15th June 2006 - Ullswater ride

8 riders turned up at the car park in Hartsop, listening to the England match on the radio whilst getting ready we heard the first Crouch goal - taking "just in time" to the limit!!
We set off north along the bridleway to take the anti-clockwise route, so the very steep warm up heading up to Boredale Hause, then across the top and the rocky testing descent into Boredale valley. Harry enjoyed himself on the down hill and ended up with a flat! We cycled along the lane heading for Sandwick beck and turned left at the Ullswater shore to come along the lake side. There is plenty of opportunity to test yourself against the rocky route, including the odd boulder challenge (cheers Jamie, you can just roll right over it!!!) also there is a section like a staircase, where Harry nearly came a cropper at the bottom but luckily landed on George so all was well!
Carry on round Silver Bay, past the Devil's Chimney and navigate past Rooking along some tracks used by sheep! to get back to the downhill section halfway down from the Boredale Hause and enjoy the last blast home to the cars...then it was just the fight with the midges to get into the cars before being eaten alive!
Next week we're in Yorkshire, doing part of the Cam High Road, (take the A65 to Ingleton, turn left on the B6255 heading for Hawse, go past Ribblehead viaduct for about one mile, park by the road side)

8th June 2006 - Broughton Mills

The ride commenced at approx 6.40pm from the Blacksmiths Arms, Broughton Mills the weather was superb but unfortunately only four riders turned out. They were Paul, George ,Jamie and Ian who led the ride. We set off down the lane from the pub but we were soon met with a very steep climb as we headed towards Great Stickle gaining almost 1000ft within the first mile!! This meant that even Jamie had to get off and push. The single track down hill to the Ulpha road was a just reward. We then followed the Upha road and turned right just before the bridge where we disputed the bridle path direction with a young local. Here we headed towards Stickle Pike more pushing. The views on this lovely summers evening were superb once over Stickle Pike we covered some excellent single track with tricky down hill sections until we reached Jackson ground. We then proceeded along the track to Stephenson Ground where we joined the road back to Broughton Mills at around 9.20pm.
Sounds great, thanks to GT for the on the spot reporting. CU next week at the Ullswater ride, meet in Hartsop village car park (drive through the village).

1st June 2005 - Keswick, Latrigg Threlkeld ride

A great summers evening ride started with 4 riders meeting behind the Keswick pencil factory, Ian decided to ride along the old railway and meet us at the shelter near Brundholme. So 3 of us set off from Briar Rigg up the Cumbria Way route UP hill to the car park at Latrigg, we then kept right and enjoyed a fast decent into Brundholme to meet Ian. Then enjoy a very tranquil ride along the old railway east to Threlkeld, then turn left and head up past the lane to the Blencathra centre, where we met Trevor and Harry riding in the opposite direction!! they had started from the main car park and riden clockwise, so we said we would meet back at Keswick for chips later.
We headed on up and upon joining the off road bridleway met a head wind but carried on up the right hand side of the valley, under Blease Fell to drop down at the end of the valley to meet the Cumbria Way and head back down the other side of the valley at higher level under Lonscale Fell. On the way down the valley Ian had the misfortune to break a seat clamp bolt, but this has happened before and Ian carries a spare bolt! We climbed up the valley passing 2 other mountain bikers and headed back along Lonscale craggs being tested along the rocky route, mindfull of the drop off to the left hand side, "Don't look down!"
Remember to take in the great views, while the sun is setting and making shadows of the mountains, we also got views of "Castle Rock" at the end of the valley toward High Rigg. While negociating the rocky section Ian fell over and appeared to be heading over the edge, but some soft mud saved the day. We then rounded the corner and met up with a large group of mountain rescue members out of a training exercise, carrying stretchers down the hillside!
We shot down the last hill, through the ford and back to the top car park to enjoy the downhill ride back to Briar Rigg, great fun in the setting sunshine.
Back to Keswick for chips in the village centre, 9.30pm and it was just like summer early evening with loads of folks walking round the plaza.
Next week Ian's route from Blacksmiths' Arms, Broughton Mills