Am looking to venture up there this weekend and ride the new red trail, any one like to share experiences? Also will be taking my 14yo son, he has previously ridden the monkey at cannock, anything to worry about for him?
It's an excellent trail, I've ridden it a couple of times as I live locally and really rate it. A couple of the ups are pretty severe and greasy after the rain so there may be some pushing! After the recent rain it's pretty slippery (mud over hardpack) so be prepared for some slidyness. Not harder technically than the Monkey from what I can remember.
I thought it was brilliant, especially the downhill sections.
Managed to go for the first time a few weeks back when we had the hot spell so was bone dry and really fast. Can't wait to go back although I gather it is very muddy when it rains, so will avoid until the weather picks up!
Did it with my son who is 11. He preferred the downs at fod but I thought it was good.
I have ridden at Cannock many times, but was blown away by the red at Hopton. Ok so, familiarity may breed contempt and it may be the venue, but Hopton has a really "natural" feel too. Be prepared for long climbs, which pay divis in spadefuls. Enjoy.
Been over today and done a few laps of the red route and I have to say it's fantastic really like it, it holds up well considering all the rain we've had of late I think, all the climbs are rideable just a bit greasy and prepare to use granny ring non of this single ring nonsense 😉 Hopton will make for a great national level xc race in a few weeks time