Happy Friday - need some help to source some interesting routes.
I'm trying to MTB 4-5 days a week at the moment - been sticking areas that I know, doing 12-14 miles. I've focussed on getting smoother/faster - problem is I'm getting too familiar with the terrain.
Now that it's dry (cleaning everything turned into a full time job), I'm keen to explore more.
I did try an online 'MTB' route a good few months ago - it didn't tickle me in any way at all, it was just an off-road pedal.
Riding solo, I'd say easy "red" sections would be about as much as I want to do whilst I build-up my skill toolbox.
Any map suggestions?
I've ridden most of the Cotswolds routes on the MTBFoodie site now. Something for most on there.
Otherwise, I use the OS Maps app and look for routes other riders have set. You have to use a bit of a double check as 'off-road' routes are often set by roadies and have next to no off road in them 😊
Assuming you're looking SWish UK then the Quantocks has some nice routes (with a lot of up and down) but I've only been there with at least one person that knows the area well so just followed rather than paying attention to trail names etc....
Im Stroud based & this is one of my favorite doorstep loops, lots of potntial techy add ons - if you know where to look!
https://mtbfoodie.com/routes/wednesday-club/woodchester/
MTBFoodie site
Thanks - I'll take a look. Wasn't aware of that site. 👍
Quantocks has some nice routes (with a lot of up and down)
I've forgotten the interesting routes/features there (used to ride there years ago). It's beautiful up there - a very charming place.
this is one of my favorite doorstep loops,
Thanks, I'll have a look.
I use Strava to find a good route in areas I’ve not ridden before, find a segment you like the look of, filter to top 10 that month and download a route you like the look of.
I find most “official” routes miss a lot of the good stuff as the best stuffs normally footpaths.
Quantocks is particularly good, as you’ve got great XC stuff plus Triscombe and Great Wood attached.
https://strava.app.link/D9KBNwpSfTb
I use Strava to find a good route in areas I’ve not ridden before, find a segment you like the look of, filter to top 10 that month and download a route you like the look of.
I find most “official” routes miss a lot of the good stuff as the best stuffs normally footpaths.
Quantocks is particularly good, as you’ve got great XC stuff plus Triscombe and Great Wood attached.
Had a go yesterday. It was beautifully quiet in the afternoon. A very nice change from heaving trail centres.
Managed the chimney - that's about as technical as I want to go for the time being.
It'll take some time for me to stitch a few favourites together. 👍
Ignore post, posted something then realised a different conclusion 👍
Im Stroud based & this is one of my favorite doorstep loops, lots of potntial techy add ons - if you know where to look!
@qwerty - what's the official view on riding through Woodchester Mansion - I've been there a few times on foot, but never all the way through on a bike.
Is it metalled/gravel road all the way down with easy access at the bottom? OS maps doesn't show it as a path/bridleway - if you rode it on a Sunday morning are you likely to get shouted at?
@jon_n the official line is that you are not allowed to as it's a footpath which is a large gravel track that the fishermen are allowed to drive along to access the lakes. I've ridden it for 14 years with minimal fuss. Don't be a dick. Avoid bank holidays. Don't hang out at the mansion with a bicycle. It works best as an ascent to Coaley Peak.
Thanks - much appreciated 🙂