Thanks. I’ve used Garmin and OS mapping but think its blank (or maybe very basic when on roads) when in France.

Thanks for all the replies. Sorry busy day and only checked back now. Some great advice and recommendations there, thank you. Well not Kayak ;-) I’ll go and digest it all and check out the downland maps too. Cheers

Thanks, I’ve used that Garmin but hoped for something less fiddly (and cheaper) ideally.

Will have a look at OpenMTB mapping too, cheers.

Just tried mine and it was bloody stiff but I managed to move it. Thanks, I’ve lubed it up now.

http://www.roughrideguide.co.uk do a few, more aimed at fun, sociable challenges than racing such as london to brighton off road at night, Bikes n Beers (brewery rides) and supported group rides on the likes of the King Alfred’s Way

I believe you need to be careful on Kamoot as it can change routes to what it thinks best. Heard of many issues with routes such as the King Alfred’s Way.

This and various other gpx’s are available on here… https://www.roughrideguide.co.uk/routes

Lots of events seem to be back up and running – loads of UK events on here with many new (long) gravel rides http://www.roughrideguide.co.uk/events

I just use an old bar and stem for planks and push ups.

Not tried the real deal so not sure how it compares but seems to do the job and I’m saving the planet by re-using spare parts 😜

Great atmosphere, very well marshalled and supported. Mostly non-technical riding, my first choice would be either a Hardtail or racey short-travel full sus, but I’ve also done it on a CX too.

Spice it up by riding it at night! Did it last year and its happening again mid-June this year.

Thanks for the Fox Hills lead.

Sorry, down south. You’re welcome to get involved with my private spot anytime you are down though ;-)

Yes I was surprised the landowner was up for it. Its an Estate which owns so much land they hadn’t even noticed this not hidden away at all, by a road, jump spot which has been there for well over 18 months!

Thanks, I’ll drop B1kepark a message. And ask about planning.

Thanks. Wow that’s been going a while and sounds exactly what we hope to do – so it can be done!

Do you know who or how they set up the club? Cycling UK sounds like it might, but as 40mpg said, I think it sounds like every individual person would need to be a member for it to work.

Wingnut sit very low, off your back, so are far less sweaty.

Brilliant, thanks everyone much appreciated, I’ll look through all those and make a decision now finally.

Marin – not sure if that question was directed at me. If so, no.

Tbh I would hire it still (and appreciate I wouldn’t have to be too careful with it myself) but then I also appreciate others have higher standards than me too.

I will look for some repair businesses and scrutinise their hire terms. Thanks

Scotroutes, that could be it, I don’t ever usually ride road bikes. It’s not like it was a new shiny bike, but appreciate it needs sorting out, I just thought a brand new frame was OTT when is was just the paint damaged.

I could have just bought one rather than hire it 😂

Been asked to cough up just under £1,000 for it 😭

I’d expect/hope it to be painted, but not fussed about marks & scuffs on a hire bike.

Thanks for the tow whee link 😁

Based in the south east, but going abroad so want them for a week. I think hybrids may have to do.

Thanks very much, they’ve quoted a much better price. Cheers.

http://Www.pedalplanner.co.uk has a range of events on it.

That’s later in the year. October.

Only know of the Dyfi winter warm up too. http://www.pedalplanner.co.uk/event-finder/#

I use a ‘normal’ 3 litre bladder in my Wingnut. As craig5 says the lumbar bladder only fits the camelbak bag.

Thanks, those Enso rings look good.

Didn’t want anything too chunky and plasticky looking, so I don’t need to get a proper ring as well.

Cheers

Another, “yeah they’ve been good for me” from me too. Mistakes happen.

Done it a load of times and on different bikes, and am of the same view as others above; that a short travel full sus is nicest, although cx is faster (if you don’t puncture or crash because of it) but you’ll feel even more beaten up afterwards and a racy hardtail is the best compromise imo.

29×3 on the road isn’t great, especially going around corners. Not had the need personally to run narrow tyres so couldn’t say,but should be fine, just might look a bit odd.

Is there enough room for the DHR, it’s quite tight with the chronicle, or shall I get the Shorty?

I’ll search around and report back on any deals I find.

Thanks. I’m in the Chilterns so lots of sloppy mud, slippery roots and leaves so need something more than grippy than my chronicles for the rear.

Thanks. We have a few sets of Avid brakes in the family fleet so even if I only use half the bottle it still works out cheaper.

Sorry, seen the link to screwfix stuff now.

what stuff from screwfix do you use/recommend – this No Nonsense Heavy Duty Degreaser 5l (88668)? <span id=”product_code_container” class=”sm”></span>

They killed the coo too

This gravel riding is really taking off in the Lakes.

Ah yes Ground Effect, good call. I had some of their tops years ago and they were excellent.

Polaris can be picked up at bargain prices buy I find them baggy around the knees and they slip down.

<span style=”font-size: 0.8rem;”>I have the F260 and they are good. Just wanted some bib-less shorts too if I could find some good ones. </span>

Gutted. Is it no good now then?

Some of the work they were doing in Horner Wood looked like it wouldn’t last long (thankfully).

The event ran for the first time last year. It’s a ride in the park. Well, some riding through parks along with some scenic cycle tracks, canal side singletrack and some cobbles but nothing too technical, but for an optional descent at Rivington. Nice day out.

Thanks for the recommendations so far.

<span style=”font-size: 0.8rem;”>Sawyer looks like the probable winner atm. </span>

Halfords ones look great. Thanks.