March 2, 2017

By Andy Smith

Bit of a Bash
7

The Borrowdale Bash is one of the Lakeland District’s classics. Great climbs, great descents, great views and different every time you ride it. It’s a real favourite but can take up a big part of your day. This particular Saturday I was really short on time so decided to only ride a bit of the Bash – it still didn’t disappoint.

I parked in the NT car park in Seatoller and kitted up. Now, as you know mountain bikers are well used to leaving the car and going straight into a climb, but today my first task was to climb Honister Pass. A real test of character. I personally make it my mission to clean it. This time was no different. It’s a case of stamping down hard on those pedals however steep it gets. And believe me, it gets steep. The reward for your efforts is a view from the top of world.

It was a beautiful morning, the snow had settled on the higher fells and the skies were blue. For now. There was a wall of cloud rolling in from the north. I had limited time anyway so I didn’t stop for long and hit the bridleway over to Castle Crag. The views were insane.

The bridleway that takes you to Castle Crag is a real treasure. It’s entertainment all the way and so much fun, especially with the sun on your back.

Once you reach Castle Crag you’re treated to an epic descent, one of the best in the Lakes in my view. The only way to ride it is fast and furious. But before I dropped in I just had to take a few moments to take in the views and realise just how lucky I am. This is just a short drive from home. Stunning.

Lake District appreciation over, time to press on. I flew down the trail smiling to myself as the many hikers coming up stood aghast that anyone could actually ride these boulders, rocks and streams.

It really is a superb trail that brings you nicely back down to the small hamlet of Grange in the valley. Then all that is required is a flat road ride for a couple of miles back to the Seatoller car park. Job done, great ride, just over an hour, all in.

Snow Business

Words and photos by Andy Smith - @andycactus

Three of us met at Staveley Mill Yard on a dank, drizzly, grey day. I arrived first and was quick to grab myself a coffee from More Bakery and pick my new favourite trail snack, the mighty Scotch egg. The lads and Sky the trail dog arrived within minutes and after quite a bit of…

Race Report – UK National Enduro Championship

Words and photos by Danny O'Callaghan - @itsdannyoc

This weekend Graythwaite and Grizedale hosted the first UK National Enduro Championship, put together by the guys at the PMBA Enduro Series. Not only was this the first UK national event of its kind it was also a 2018 EWS Qualifier Event, making this the most prestigious enduro in the UK this year!

March 2, 2017

By Andy Smith

Bit of a Bash7

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Race Report – UK National Enduro Championship

Bit of a Bash
7