Cycling UK Wantage | Programme of Rides and Events

Past Rides

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Sun Apr 7th 2019

Back On Your Off road Bike	2*

Leader: Robin Tucker	Start Time: 10:00 am	Start Location: Wantage Market Place
Description: At the start of this ride, we will cover bike set up and basic techniques to make off-roading fun. We'll do a 3 mile 'training ride' then an optional short ride up to about 10 miles on local tracks, with frequent breaks. This ride is ideal if you have wanted to take your bike off-road, but been a bit unsure.
Riders: Brian Hipwell Des Higgs Robin Tucker Riders = 3 Weather: Report: We fulfilled our purpose today, with two non-regular off-road riders enjoying the delights of the trails, and picking up a few tips on the way. Brian was a little nervous that his hybrid with gravel tyres and mudguards would not be up to it, but it was dry and the tyres were 40mm. We lowered the pressures to about 40psi to soften the bumps and add grip and he had no problems at all. Our first move out of town was up Lark Hill. This provided practice in choosing lines - dodging between the puddles. Then it was choosing between ruts and ridges in the dip, and then we climbed the main hill - choosing carefully to avoid the steep slippery chalk and take the gently rising track on the right. From there we worked our way up through Bitham woods to the Ridgeway. The track by the gallops was in good condition (sometimes hooves take a toll). Mist meant the views from the top were not great, but we made good progress to Scutchamers Knob and descended to the corner of Harwell campus. Next it was everyone's favourite section twisting through the woods. Great for practicing 'looking ahead' and bike control. From there, we took to the NCN/Sustran route back to Wantage. At the start Brian said he was in for the 3 mile version, but somehow he seemed to have enjoyed all 15!
Distance: 24.14 km (15.00 mi)
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Ride Filter

Start Locations: WMP
Wantage Market Place; OMH
Old Mill Hall, Grove

Categories: 1* - Suitable for irregular, social, beginner or family riders, pace will match the slower riders. Not hilly or long. Expect rides up to 3 hours. Gentle exercise.; 2* - Suitable for regular riders who prefer to cover some distance but at a more relaxed pace. Likely to be half-day rides. Solid exercise.; 3* - Suitable for experienced riders, may be hilly, long, quick, or any combination! Likely to be half or full-day rides. Challenging exercise.; 4* - Suitable for athletic riders who can ride safely above the 3* standard. Quick rides for the fit.; More Information