Trip to Swinley Forest (off road)

An chance to try some off road or progress your skills and fitness in a safe environment. This ride is aimed at those who haven't done much forest trails/ singletrack and want to give it a go - or those who have done rides like this but are happy to be part of a social ladies-only group or want to build fitness or want some motivation by signing up. Please be aware that car parking can be busy so if driving please do aim to arrive in good time so you can get bikes out and set up for 10am start promptly. Keep eyes out for the overflow car park. Mountain bikes / bikes with some front suspension and fatter more knobbly tyres (not skinny road type tyres) only, ladies have tried hybrids without this and did not find it much fun. Please read the PDF linked below for descriptions of the trails: http://www.theroyallandscape.co.uk/media/159078/Crown%20Estate%20Mountain%20Biking%20Leaflet%202013.pdf We will start with a short chat and warm up. We will then ride the Green route which is billed as a 'Family Trail' and is 1km. After that, we will ride the 6.5 mile Blue route "Beginner/ intermediate" which is more challenging in terms of fitness primarily (you must go up to come down) but it is not technical in terms of there are no rocks to ride over or 'drop offs'! The ladies who tried it earlier this year and last year got round and were buzzing and some did walk some short sections which is fine. We wait at safe places top of hills or junctions if needed. You can always stick to the Green if you want to leave us to it, you can't get lost! Or there are fire roads to enjoy. If you want to come but don't have a bike, check out the hire prices here: http://swinleybikehub.com/ If after the first sections you find you are confident and want to head off on your own at a faster pace that is fine, just agree with the leaders before you do it and you'll then be responsible for yourself. There is a cafe on site so can stop for a drink/chat after if weather OK so have included time in for that. Your leader will be Ruth. Other leaders welcome to join the fun! Any queries, [email protected] / www.facebook.com/breezingstoke or twitter @breezingstoke