Earlside and Denholm Loop

A circular route on quiet back roads involving a few climbs

This is a weekly cycle ride for those interested in becoming more comfortable riding in a group and improving their cycle fitness. If you have ever been interested in joining a cycling club but are not sure what to expect or have been put off by thinking the pace of the rides will be too much this is for you. It is open to both men and women, families and accompanied youth riders. The route has been chosen for the quiet roads, to offer a wee bit of a challenge, but we will be sticking together, regrouping when necessary such as at the tops of climbs and sticking to a pace average of between 12.5 - 15 mph. It is suitable for riders with road, gravel and mountain bikes. E-bike riders are also welcome.

This is a 20 mile loop mainly on quiet B roads and unclassified roads through rolling hills. There are a couple of climbs at Cogsmill and at Horsley Hill. There is a short section A6088 that we ride between Hawick and Bonchester Bridge where traffic is heavier and faster, and we cross the A698 in Denholm, but other than that the roads will be very quiet.

This is an early evening ride when cafes on route will be closed, so no café stops. The ride should last between 1.25 and 1.5 hours. We will stop to regroup as necessary and at the top of the two climbs if riders need a short rest.

Please wear a helmet and suitable clothing for bike riding. It is also a good idea to carry a drinking bottle and have an energy bar or similar in your pocket. It is also important to carry a spare inner tube just in case you have a puncture. If you have tools for changing a tube that you can fit in your pocket please bring those as well.

Anyone new to group riding is very welcome to join the ride. Please not the distance of this ride and the planned average speed. If you are looking for a guided ride with a gentler pace we will be offering them too as part of planned series of guided rides in the Hawick area. Please check the Let's Ride website for details.