Muddymoles

Ride report: Wednesday 10 March - Effingham

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during March 10.

So far there's 3 comment(s) on this post.

Ninja trails. So stealthy that we didn't see it coming, our trails seem to have transformed over the past fortnight from claggy mud-fest to peachy buffness. It's all relative of course but it feels as though for the first time since November's biblical deluge we've finally got some dry trails appearing.

Not that things are entirely mud-free yet...

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 10 March - Effingham'.

Ride Report: Sunday 7 January - Sunny Side up

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during March 10.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

Did you know that the sky was blue and that there is a big bright thing that sits in it generating heat? You'd be forgiven for forgetting after the awful weather we've had of late but 7 Moles headed out to into the light for a change.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 7 January - Sunny Side up'.

661 Mini Dh - Round 3, Forest Of Dean

Originally posted by AndyW.

Filed under 'Rides' during March 10.

So far there's 10 comment(s) on this post.

Everyone knows that if you want to design something properly, you do it on the back of a beer mat / fag packet over beer. So in keeping with this proven engineering process, Dave W and I extended the logic to mountain bike theories and set about resolving the age old ‘suspension is compensation for talent’.

For those who were not able to join us in the pub on Saturday night (admittedly no invites were sent and we may have neglected to send out an agenda), the issue was soon resolved and the findings of the committee was that its horses for courses and to ride a full suspension bike really fast needs talent. So that should be the last we hear on the subject...

Continue reading '661 Mini Dh - Round 3, Forest Of Dean'.

Ride report: Sunday 28 February - The Apocalypse

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 10.

So far there's 11 comment(s) on this post.

If you'd been paying too much attention to the dire warnings from the weather people you might have been forgiven for not even bothering to get out of bed today. But with the knowledge that some of our brethren were competing in the FoD Mini Downhill race and the fact that DevonSi (one of our founding fathers) was joining us for a ride it seemed getting out was the right thing to do.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 28 February - The Apocalypse'.

Ride report: Winter riding in Afan

Originally posted by Tony.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 10.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

In an effort to get away from the relentless mud afflicting Surrey at the moment a mini Moles breakway group (well DaveW and I) agreed to meet up at Afan/Cwmcarn this weekend. Well it wasn't exactly just muddy but there was other weather to contend with too.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Winter riding in Afan'.

Ride Report: Sunday 21 February - Box Hill

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 10.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

The past three weeks have seen us putting in some remarkably similar routes, largely due to the terrible conditions we currently have. It's been a mudfest, brought home to me on Friday with an arduous slog over to Redhill. I actually had to get off and walk up parts of Alsation as I struggled to turn my singlespeed's cranks and find traction at the same time!

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 21 February - Box Hill'.

Ride report: Wednesday 17 February - White Downs clag

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 10.

So far there's 3 comment(s) on this post.

Ride; or don't ride. After all is said and done, that what this pastime boils down to. So last night, after a fine Spring-like day we went out for a ride across the Surrey Hills.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 17 February - White Downs clag'.

Ride report: Wednesday 10 February - Neck pain

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 10.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

Last night proved to be one of those rides which if it doesn't break you makes you stronger. Well, I don't think AndyC and I feel any stronger this morning so in that case...

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 10 February - Neck pain'.

Freeride report: Sunday 7 February - Rogate DH Bike Park

Originally posted by Andy.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 10.

So far there's 7 comment(s) on this post.

With at least three Moles (AndyW, DaveW and AndyC) signed up for the Forest of Dean Mini DH race at the end of February, a consensus emerged that it would be worthwhile to attempt some sort of practice to enable the Mole name to ‘walk tall’ within the DH fraternity (or something like that).

Continue reading 'Freeride report: Sunday 7 February - Rogate DH Bike Park'.

Ride Report - Sunday 7 February - B Team: Mole Duo

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 10.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

Every year Keith and I seem to having at least one ride with just the two of us and with the more Intrepid Moles giving it large on the DH course at Rogate we were left to enjoy a shorter, steadier XC ride.

Given this will be a short review here's a video Erick shot a few weeks ago!

Continue reading 'Ride Report - Sunday 7 February - B Team: Mole Duo'.

Ride report: Wednesday 3 February - muddy again

Originally posted by Tony.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 10.

So far there's 3 comment(s) on this post.

Muddy, muddy, muddy!

Last night it was an apt night to be a Muddymole.

With Matt not riding last night I was uncertain as to how many people were going to turn up and the weather didn't look great either. However a good number of hardy soles turned up AndyC (the new Whiteboi with super sparkly white shoes), DaveW, Barry, Paul (fashionably late), James, MattP7 and myself.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 3 February - muddy again'.

Ride report: Wednesday 27 January - muddy hell!

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 10.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

After yesterday's post about motivation I was keen to force myself out. Despite the early promise, as evening wore on it became warmer and wetter, prompting a thaw to the mud and some claggy conditions. A proper winter ride for a change then, even if hell is maybe too strong a word to describe it!

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 27 January - muddy hell!'.

Ride Report: Sunday 24 January - It's muddy out there

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 10.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

Another ride through the mud, lovely! I did take the opportunity to snap some more footage on the Samsung U10 mini HD camcorder though.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 24 January - It's muddy out there'.

Ride Report - Sunday 17 January - Newlands Corner

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 10.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

Today was not a ride to wimp out of. It was a ride to take hold of and throw around with vigour.

Continue reading 'Ride Report - Sunday 17 January - Newlands Corner'.

Ride report: Wednesday 13 January - still snowy

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 10.

So far there's 9 comment(s) on this post.

Last night seemed a common consensus that if you haven't ridden in snow this year it was your last chance for a while. The weather is turning and despite a good covering of snow in the morning by evening temperatures were soaring. It was nearly 0°!

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 13 January - still snowy'.

Ride report: Sunday 10 January - Reigate in the snow

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 10.

So far there's 19 comment(s) on this post.

What a change from winter mud! With the unseasonal snow — how silly does that sound — still with us we ventured out once again across the North Downs to the widespread resignation of our collective spouses and family. People just think going riding in these conditions is bonkers, whereas we, of course, know better…

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 10 January - Reigate in the snow'.

Rogate Downhill Session

Originally posted by AndyW.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 10.

So far there's 20 comment(s) on this post.

The problem with DH racing in the South of England is where to practice. You can take your DH rig to the surrey hills but most people (including myself) will be wondering what you will be riding it on.

Continue reading 'Rogate Downhill Session'.

Ride report: Wednesday 6 January - Snow

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 10.

So far there's 10 comment(s) on this post.

Best. Night ride. Ever!

Well, certainly it was different as we tackled the deep, freshly fallen snow that is currently blanketing this little corner of Surrey. Despite temperatures well below zero we also managed to stay pretty warm until the increasingly slippery conditions brought our work rate down later in the ride.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 6 January - Snow'.

Ride report: Sunday 3 January - Holmbury and Pitch Hill

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 10.

So far there's 24 comment(s) on this post.

Do moles hibernate? Well, this one certainly has over the past few weeks to my shame. With early December starting much as November had finished (in other words very, very wet) and a fair sized mileage racked up for the year I just lost all my enthusiasm for more punishment. Throw in a recent head cold which stubbornly refused to lift and the Christmas holiday saw me manage one ride. Today's.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 3 January - Holmbury and Pitch Hill'.

Ride Report: Sunday 27 December - Newlands Corner

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during December 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

Whilst I probably should have been resting my shoulder, as I sit here writing this it feels remarkably good after today's ride.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 27 December - Newlands Corner'.

Ride report: Sunday 20 December - Box hill in the snow

Originally posted by Barrie.

Filed under 'Rides' during December 09.

So far there's 7 comment(s) on this post.

Leaving my house in Ashtead on Sunday morning, quite happy to have exchanged rain for snow, after 5 minutes riding the hands were cold and my face, which was the only bit of skin exposed to the elements was numb. I put in a quick blast along to Leatherhead to warm me up on the way to Bocketts on my new On-One singlespeed.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 20 December - Box hill in the snow'.

Ride report: Wednesday 16 December - no show, no snow!

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during December 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

Every once in a while it falls to a select few to maintain our riding honour in the face of general unavailability. With Dave recovering, Tony away, Colin's bike in bits and the fact it's the season of feasting and merriment there was always the likelihood of a low turnout last night. Added to which it was bloody cold and wet.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 16 December - no show, no snow!'.

Ride report: Sunday 13 December - Deliverance crash

Originally posted by Tony.

Filed under 'Rides' during December 09.

So far there's 18 comment(s) on this post.

The sounds of man and his machine in perfect harmony gliding across gentle singletrack wasn't what happened today, instead today it was the worst sort of man and machine noise that we heard.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 13 December - Deliverance crash'.

Ride report: Wednesday 9 December - Ranmore ramble

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during December 09.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

It's 6:45 and I still haven't got myself or my bike ready for tonight's ride. Lurking in the garage is a sorry looking Inbred which has had little more than a cursory clean from it's last ride, mud still streaking the fork legs. It's problem is the chain tensioner. My limited mechanical skills meant it played up badly on my ride home from work last Friday, with the chain hopping off and the slack causing it to slip and strip teeth off my Middleburn chainring. Grrr!

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 9 December - Ranmore ramble'.

Ride Report: Sunday 6 December - Epsom Downs

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during December 09.

So far there's 8 comment(s) on this post.

Mole - small velvety-furred burrowing mammal having small eyes and fossorial forefeet. The actual definition of a mole isn't as important was what it isn't. You'll notice the complete absence of any reference to "aquatic" in the above definition.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 6 December - Epsom Downs'.

Ride report: Wednesday 2 December - winter warmer

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during December 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

After yesterday's questioning of everyone's wet weather preferences it was perhaps unfortunate that only four of us turned up last night for our weekly ride. Could it be that I'd put people off as James pointed out to me? Probably yes, but the monsoon that fell around six o'colck probably didn't provide much encouragement either. There's only so much people can take…

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 2 December - winter warmer'.

Ride report: Sunday 29 November - Newlands Corner

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during November 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

So it rained again. Really rained. It's as if the weather has decided to make up for the three month gift of little or no rain that extended into October by making sure that November has seen some of the wettest rides I've done for a couple of years. From the beginning of the month with the Bordon Enduro we've endured wet rides virtually every week since, on both our Sunday and mid-week efforts, to say nothing of my Friday commutes.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 29 November - Newlands Corner'.

Ride report: Wednesday 25 November - slippy slidey catchey er, bovine?!

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during November 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

Well, last night we nearly didn't make it out of Bookham after an unfortunate incident which left Tony's bike threatening all behind with a custom Crud guard. It's those mudguard vigilantes again.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 25 November - slippy slidey catchey er, bovine?! '.

Ride Report: Sunday 22 November - Holmbury and the new BKB

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during November 09.

So far there's 17 comment(s) on this post.

It was a ride of two halves, the wet half and the really very wet half.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 22 November - Holmbury and the new BKB'.

Ride Report: Wednesday 18 November - Effingham loop

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during November 09.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

A quick phone call to Jem to find out if he was cycling was met with the "well I'll go if you are going" so we mutually pushed each other up the road to see who was out.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Wednesday 18 November - Effingham loop'.

Ride report: Wednesday 11 November - Headley

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during November 09.

So far there's 13 comment(s) on this post.

Last night proved to be an interesting ride for several reasons. Ultimately the prospect of slippery, muddy trails failed to be a sufficient draw for many of our regulars which meant just Jem, James, Del and myself turned up at the garage for the off. We were joined later by a late starting Tony, who met us after his kids' parents evening at the top of Alsation (strange place for a parents evening I hear you say!).

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 11 November - Headley'.

Ride report: Sunday 8 November - Reigate

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during November 09.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

Riding along the top of Colley Hill today looking toward Box Hill, Dorking and Leith Hill beyond, Lee commented that this really was our domain. I knew what he meant, this really is what we ride but for a brief moment I was reminded of Tarzan, Lord of the Jungle!

For those without a clue to what I'm talking about, this was a popular children's cartoon back in the day. It started with Tarzan giving a voiceover saying 'the jungle is full of beauty… and danger!. Well, that's about the sum of the North Downs too I guess.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 8 November - Reigate'.

Ride report: Wednesday 5 November

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during November 09.

So far there's 3 comment(s) on this post.

November 5, as everyone knows, is firework night (or Guy Fawkes' Night to be more precise). We have our own methods though of burning through money and they provide far more excitement than the odd colourful explosion.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 5 November'.

Ride Report: Sunday 1 November

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during November 09.

So far there's 3 comment(s) on this post.

With some of the core Moles digging their own hills in the Bordon Enduro it was left the few to ride in the rain.

Winter is here.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 1 November'.

Ride report: Thursday 29 October - Pitch and Pint splinter group

Originally posted by Tony.

Filed under 'Rides' during October 09.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

It's been months and months since I rode over on Pitch Hill so with not being able to ride this Wednesday I suggested a Pitch and Pint ride. There were many Moles expressing interest but come 7:45pm last night our ride was a rather bijou 2 riders. Although this did make for a flowing non-stop ride on a beautiful and un-seasonally warm evening.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Thursday 29 October - Pitch and Pint splinter group'.

Ride report: Wednesday 28 October - DealExtreme

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during October 09.

So far there's 7 comment(s) on this post.

If there's any one doubting the effect DealExtreme are making with their HA-III P7 MTB light, a cursory glance at what the nine riders who turned up for Wednesday's ride were using would settle the matter.

Aside from myself, JohnR and Colin the other six (Matt, Hannah—yes, a woman—,James, Mark, Barrie and DaveW) were all running the DX light!

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 28 October - DealExtreme'.

Ride Report: Sunday 25 October

Originally posted by Lee.

Filed under 'Rides' during October 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

With the clocks going back on Saturday night you know the hazy days of summer are finally consigned to memory, and, whilst we have had a good run of warm weather recently and dry trails to boot, it’s an all-too-quick transition to mud and gloop out there in the hills at this time of year. Sunday gave us a glimpse of what sadly will probably be the form for the next few months.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 25 October'.

Ride report: Wednesday 22 October - Spooky

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during October 09.

So far there's 3 comment(s) on this post.

With heavy rain predicted for last night I had this sense of foreboding that it wasn't going to be a great ride. But after a bit of rain on Tuesday night, Wednesday was mild and dry all day so I guess Sod's law means I'll be getting wet on my Friday morning commute instead!

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 22 October - Spooky'.

Ride report: Sunday 18 October - Circles

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during October 09.

So far there's 3 comment(s) on this post.

Yesterday morning dawned cold, with a sharp frost on the ground – a foretaste of things to come that's for sure. So it was back to the eternal confusion over what to wear. Summer gloves and shoes, a trusty Helly Hansen base layer and my Gore Phantom jacket covered most of the bases, plus I knew I could rely on my Kyle Strait knee pads to keep my legs warm!

Somewhat thrown by the frosty ground I donned my usual summer riding top as a mid-layer too. I didn't need to do that.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 18 October - Circles'.

Ride report: Wednesday 14 October - Box Hill and Headley

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during October 09.

So far there's 5 comment(s) on this post.

I haven't been on my bike since the D2D on 4 October for one reason or another. Initially, I just didn't want to, having been worn out by my efforts; more recently family has got in the way and a niggling doubt about getting a cold. But it hasn't materialised so maybe it was just the effects of the dust at Thetford.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 14 October - Box Hill and Headley'.

Ride report: Sunday 11 October - Newlands Corner

Originally posted by Tony.

Filed under 'Rides' during October 09.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

After sitting around with no cycling for 9 weeks, watching our glorious late summer pass by, I'm super pleased to be out on the bike. So with my first Sunday morning Moles ride since my fateful trip to Swinley coming up, I was somewhat less than delighted to open the curtains this Sunday morning to find it raining.

However I'm still so keen to be riding, a monsoon probably wouldn't have put me off.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 11 October - Newlands Corner'.

2009 Marin Dusk til Dawn (D2D) at Thetford - a summary

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during October 09.

So far there's 12 comment(s) on this post.

Now updated with race times

This weekend as you know was the D2D at Thetford, our first team race although a handful of us have raced bikes in the past. I'm not one of them.

Continue reading '2009 Marin Dusk til Dawn (D2D) at Thetford - a summary'.

Ride report: Wednesday 30 September - Tony's return

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during October 09.

So far there's 3 comment(s) on this post.

With an active weekend ahead, I didn't post up last night's ride, preferring the idea of a gentle pootle to spin the legs and not wanting to disappoint anyone who turned up expecting a more arduous ride. Of course, at the time I didn't realise Tony was planning to join us…

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 30 September - Tony's return'.

Ride Report: Purbeck Killer Loop, 16th September

Originally posted by Lee.

Filed under 'Rides' during September 09.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

With an alarming sense of panic setting in over our forthcoming sojourn to deepest darkest Thetford (on the back of what has been a rather barren spell in the saddle recently) combined with a well timed family holiday in Dorset, I was recently able to take full advantage and indulge myself with one of my favourite rides; a Purbeck Killer Loop.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Purbeck Killer Loop, 16th September'.

Ride report: Sunday 28 September - Leith and Holmbury Hills

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during September 09.

So far there's 3 comment(s) on this post.

Sunday was our last day ride before the Dusk til Dawn that you may have heard we're entering this year. Talk about a build up! We've had some concerted miles from riders, various exotic kit purchases and a lot of anticipation for what is, basically, a jolly. If we can sort out a phone connection we may even manage a bit of Live Blogging from the event in true Web 2.0 fashion. It's a big if.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 28 September - Leith and Holmbury Hills'.

Ride Report - Sunday 23 September - Effingham loop

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during September 09.

So far there's 3 comment(s) on this post.

You know, those trails are pretty dry out there at the moment. Which means it's pretty easy to keep up a good pace and enjoy yourself at the same time, one of the reasons autumn is my favourite season of the year.

Continue reading 'Ride Report - Sunday 23 September - Effingham loop'.

Ride Report - Sunday 20 September - Pitch Hill

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during September 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

What a difference it makes having an upcoming event to focus the mind! With Dusk til Dawn soon upon us it's fair to say a good number of us have been unusually active on our bikes recently.

Dave's been assiduously racking up the miles with multiple rides including some trail centre and Fe-mole appearances, Jem's hit the rollers when he can't get on the bike and I've banged in a few singlespeed sessions to work and back. Even Mark, by his own admission has snuck out for some solo night-time mileage.

Continue reading 'Ride Report - Sunday 20 September - Pitch Hill'.

Ride Report - Wednesday 16 September - China Pig beckons

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during September 09.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

It seems the Surrey Hills have turned into quite a dangerous place recently, what with Colin and Mark both fighting off badger attacks. Perhaps Andy really is onto something when he muses that they're fighting back against the mole hegemony. Or perhaps it's not just coffee he's taking on board first thing in the morning!

Whatever the reason, it wasn't without a certain trepidation that we ventured out last night on our regular ride…

Continue reading 'Ride Report - Wednesday 16 September - China Pig beckons'.

Ride Report - Sunday 13 September - Leith Hill capers

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during September 09.

So far there's 11 comment(s) on this post.

Today was a good day for a ride. Mild (about 17°), very dry and with the summer vegetation, just, just starting to die back a little. We started later than usual due to my wife needing to drop relatives at the airport so for the first time in ages we met at Bockett's at 9:00.

Continue reading 'Ride Report - Sunday 13 September - Leith Hill capers'.

Ride report: Sun, Sea and Cycling in Cyprus

Originally posted by Andy.

Filed under 'Rides' during September 09.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

The sun was already hot as I emerged from the pool after a pre-breakfast dip, drying me off nicely before I sorted out my cycling gear and prepared for the long drive ahead to the Troodos (pronounced Tro-o-dos) mountains. These mountains are in the centre of that 'jewel of the Mediterranean', Cyprus, where ¾ of my family were spending a week in the sun.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sun, Sea and Cycling in Cyprus'.

Ride report: Wednesday 9 September - Ranmore/Horsley/Sheepleas loop

Originally posted by The Stig.

Filed under 'Rides' during September 09.

So far there's 7 comment(s) on this post.

What did I comment after Badger-gate last Wednesday night? "some uneventful rides would be good…"

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 9 September - Ranmore/Horsley/Sheepleas loop'.

Ride Report: Sunday 6 September - Newlands Corner and some

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during September 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

Phew! Another large turnout saw 15 riders heading off on a decent cross country ride with some lumpy bits thrown in. At the end of it I eventually crossed the line at home to record 28 miles – not bad but not as much as some today.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 6 September - Newlands Corner and some'.

Ride report: Wednesday 2 September - a river runs through it

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during September 09.

So far there's 5 comment(s) on this post.

As with Stig recently, I was faced with a number of choices for the title of last night's ride report, not least of which 'Badger Baiting' springs to mind.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 2 September - a river runs through it'.

Ride report - 30th August

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during August 09.

So far there's 10 comment(s) on this post.

With my weekly mileage ending up on 82 miles and Matt's on zero this is going to be one hell of a new logo he's working on! Either that or he's clocking up the miles undercover!

Continue reading 'Ride report - 30th August'.

Ride report: Wednesday 26 August - We Three Moles

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during August 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

With Matt busy slaving over the new logo... or as we call it, throwing another sicky, the inclement weather had cut our numbers in a true show of sorting the moles out from the boys.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 26 August - We Three Moles'.

Ride report: Epsom to Shoreham-by-Sea via the Downs Link

Originally posted by Jez.

Filed under 'Rides' during August 09.

So far there's 9 comment(s) on this post.

It’s easy to obsess about the latest kit being dangled before us and the level of choice available now is extraordinary. Have you seen how many tyres are for sale on some of the bigger bike websites? I can’t tell you because I fell asleep counting but I reckon it’s above 400. Folding, tubeless, dual compound, snake bike protection, the variations go on. Wanna new grip? Try picking from over 250.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Epsom to Shoreham-by-Sea via the Downs Link'.

Ride Report: Sunday 23 August - Leith via Brockham

Originally posted by The Stig.

Filed under 'Rides' during August 09.

So far there's 20 comment(s) on this post.

Today's route: North Downs killer loop on bikely

I’m a little spoilt for choice in deciding on a punch line to sum up the Sunday ride, some of which are self-explanatory and others will be explained later. Lets try:

• And then there were…17
• Killer Loop
• Stop Thief
• Saved by an ice cream

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 23 August - Leith via Brockham'.

Brechfa Enduro

Originally posted by Andy.

Filed under 'Rides' during August 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

Muddy Moles are prize winners at Brechfa!

But more of that later, as we had not got off to a good start that Sunday morning. We were late and it was raining, and it was 9.40 when we arrived at Llansawel Rugby Club, with registration closing at 9.30 and the riders briefing at 9.45. I parked the car while my daughter Ellie checked in, having borrowed the “Team Muddy Moles” tag for the day.

Continue reading 'Brechfa Enduro'.

Ride report: Wednesday 19 August - Abinger and Ranmore

Originally posted by The Stig.

Filed under 'Rides' during August 09.

So far there's 5 comment(s) on this post.

There really were no excuses for me not to join the night ride on what was probably the nicest day since the mini heatwave way back in June. In fact, I was well up for it, this being my comeback ride from injury and an attempt to get my mileage back on track. The waistline is starting to advertise my low mileage of late.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 19 August - Abinger and Ranmore'.

Ride report: Wednesday 12 August - Malhamdale loop

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during August 09.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Well, I'm long overdue a report round here and since I've been away on family holiday, what better than a write up about a jaunt I did around Malhamdale in the Yorkshire Dales?

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 12 August - Malhamdale loop'.

Ride report: Sunday 16 August - And then there were 3 (almost)

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during August 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

It was close.

I very nearly followed in the footsteps of Colin and Tony!

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 16 August - And then there were 3 (almost)'.

Ride Report: Sunday 9 August

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during August 09.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

Weather was looking up as a small but determined group head out into the hills

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 9 August'.

Ride report: Sunday 2 August - Swinley, oooff!!

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during August 09.

So far there's 14 comment(s) on this post.

It all started so well. Sunny skies after days of rain, 16 riders and Swinley singletrack to play in.

You can see where this is going can't you?

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 2 August - Swinley, oooff!!'.

Ride Report: Wednesday 29 July - No Jacket Required

Originally posted by Jem.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 09.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

Paul(Irish)'s indecision as to wear his waterproof jacket was the topic at the rendezvous point prior to the ride. Is it going to rain or not? (it must rain a lot in Ireland). Luckily for Tony we were running late, he turned up later than usual in his rustly waterproof shorts. With a swift feel of the fabric on the thigh, Dave and I thought the same, Ulrika-ka-ka-ka!

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Wednesday 29 July - No Jacket Required'.

Ride report: Sunday 26 July - Leith and Holmbury

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 09.

So far there's 10 comment(s) on this post.

Today was quite a day with a number of new faces as well as an appearance from at least a couple of riders who have recently been absent. Bockett's Farm saw a gathering of riders that included Tony, DaveW, DaveC, Jez, Jem, Philip, Erick, Jenny and Barrie, totalling ten including myself. Later on we rendezvous'd with Paul and Joe at the Rookery bringing the number to 12 riders. Not bad at all!

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 26 July - Leith and Holmbury'.

Ride report: Wednesday 22 July - Then there were three + 1

Originally posted by Jem.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 09.

So far there's 9 comment(s) on this post.

Last nights ride was a fast one. The Posse consisted of Dave, Irish Paul, Andy (Leeds) and Jem with 3 x full susser's and one single speed driven by team Diesel Dave.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 22 July - Then there were three + 1'.

Ride Report - 19th July - Short and nasty

Originally posted by Tony.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 09.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

On what looked like it could be a wet morning 6 riders (Tony, Diesel Dave, DaveW (DoMTB), Jem, Ian, Darren) met up at Bocketts farm car park for the usual MuddyMoles ride. As normal there was a fair bit of, chat, visual bike fondling of the new machinary - Jem's eBay special full susser - and discussion of routes before we set off. Dave had "something different" in mind. Gulp.

Continue reading 'Ride Report - 19th July - Short and nasty'.

Ride report - Wednesday 15 July - Abinger again

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 09.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

With Chief Mole Web Guru and Master of the Passwords feeling sorry for himself in bed, it was a small dedicated band of Moles that turned out for an unpublished ride.

Continue reading 'Ride report - Wednesday 15 July - Abinger again'.

Ride report: Sunday 12 July - Leith Hill

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 09.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

With mixed weather looking like it might spoil the ride a total of nine riders gathered for today's ride.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 12 July - Leith Hill'.

Ride report: Wednesday 8 July - Newlands Corner

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 09.

So far there's 3 comment(s) on this post.

Yes you read that title correctly. We actually managed a Newlands Corner run on a night ride, albeit a long dry summer evening. I've been thinking for a while it was do-able and so it proved even if we finished a bit later than usual.

Our riding group was just the right size to let us move along at the right kind of pace, with Dave, AndyC, AndyLeeds, JohnR, Tony and myself; only diesel Dave had the fuel economy settings dialled in but he kept on rolling.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 8 July - Newlands Corner'.

Ride report: Sunday 5 July - Gatton Park

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 09.

So far there's 5 comment(s) on this post.

It was an XC kind of day. With perfect weather, I turned up at the car park as usual to find 11 other riders ready for a tour of the Surrey Hills. If my memory for names is accurate the list included Dave, Colin, Jem, Jez, Barrie, AndyC, Neill, Darren, Ian, Mark, Paul and myself. Surprisingly, only one Dave!

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 5 July - Gatton Park'.

Ride report: Wednesday 1 July - Mickleham and Brockham

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 09.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

It was Lee's fault! Sometime during yesterday, as I was pondering a route for the evening's ride I got an email from Lee suggesting the Brockham descent. Which kind of dictates the rest of the route too. I was happy enough to go along with it but I did warn him there might be some fall-out.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 1 July - Mickleham and Brockham'.

Ride report: Sunday 28 June - Sticky backed plastic and a pair of Val's old knickers

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during June 09.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

The Sunday ride wasn't what it had been. With newborns, concerts and probably a fair degree of divorce threats after last weeks "f*cking epic" we were down to three men.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 28 June - Sticky backed plastic and a pair of Val's old knickers'.

Ride report: Wednesday 24 June - Abinger Roughs

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during June 09.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

Summer time and the riding is easy. Well, sort of I guess unless you happen to be running my Orange Five with fork and shock pressures 'not quite right' and tyres at 20psi. It made for squirrelly progress that's for sure.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 24 June - Abinger Roughs'.

Ride Report: Sunday 21 June - Leith and Holmbury

Originally posted by The Stig.

Filed under 'Rides' during June 09.

So far there's 5 comment(s) on this post.

How apt that on a day when we were blessed with the (otherwise thoroughly enjoyable) company of a few individuals who approach their flatulence with that old addage "better out than in", we chose to head to Leith Hill and ride Windy Willow, to name but one of the many fab trails on today's route.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 21 June - Leith and Holmbury'.

Ride report: Thursday 19 June - Fast and furious

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during June 09.

So far there's 3 comment(s) on this post.

Last night was a bit of a shock to the system. It was brought to you by the words 'fast' and 'dusty' which at times threatened to overwhelm the riders at the back of the group. At one point there was more dust in the air than dry ice at a Whitesnake gig.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Thursday 19 June - Fast and furious'.

Ride report: Sunday 14th June - Leith Hill

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during June 09.

So far there's 7 comment(s) on this post.

After a mixed week of rain and sun it was great to have a pretty perfect morning to ride in. With no plan as such the pack settled on a ride over to Leith hill to do the usual stuff.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 14th June - Leith Hill'.

Ride report: Wednesday 10 June - Chalk and clay

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during June 09.

So far there's 5 comment(s) on this post.

So it goes. Last week I got a load of abuse for picking a route that involved climbing a few hills, this week, with damper conditions it was time to be abused by a smaller group over the amount of mud around. Well, no apologies from me.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 10 June - Chalk and clay'.

Ride report: Saturday 6 June - Swinley on my mind

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during June 09.

So far there's 15 comment(s) on this post.

Well that doesn't happen very often. Not only a full day of riding for the Moles but an evening curry to finish it all off. And after 26 miles round Swinley (Swinley pictures, courtesy of Neil are on Flickr), finished off we most certainly were.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Saturday 6 June - Swinley on my mind'.

Ride report: Wednesday 3 June - Brockham loop

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during June 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

Last night started differently so it made sense to throw in a bit of a different route too. Although at times my route planning skills were called into question (being the only rider on a fuss sus machine), I think it worked out pretty well in the end.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 3 June - Brockham loop'.

Ride report: Sunday 31 May - Ranmore, Abinger and Box Hill loop

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 09.

So far there's 13 comment(s) on this post.

So that was May, and what a month of riding it has been. It's been hot, it's been dry, it's been gloopy, it's been wet. We've covered Leith Hill, Pitch Hill, Holmbury Hill, Newlands Corner, Headley, Reigate and Box Hill but in all that time we've never had an 'incident'. By that I mean something where potentially injury was involved. Until today that is…

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 31 May - Ranmore, Abinger and Box Hill loop'.

Ride report: Thursday 28 May - And then there were three

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 09.

So far there's 7 comment(s) on this post.

I'll tell you right now. There's a moral to this story that's worth listening to if you plan to ride in the dark on unfamiliar trails. But that's for later, first of all a bit of scene setting.

Last night we planned to go over to Pitch Hill for a ride and a pint. Unusually, we were heading out on a Thursday since Mark and I were required at his 8 year old's birthday party on Wednesday.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Thursday 28 May - And then there were three'.

Ride report: Sunday 24 May - Bookham to Gatton Park

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 09.

So far there's 5 comment(s) on this post.

What a day for a ride! With temperatures topping 24° by the afternoon it was clear from early in the day that conditions were perfect for mountain biking. In fact, for the first time in ages I left the house without a long sleeve top or base layer, knowing that even during our usual cake stop it wasn't going to get chilly. So it proved.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 24 May - Bookham to Gatton Park'.

Ride report: Wednesday 20 May - Stop and start

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 09.

So far there's 5 comment(s) on this post.

With the weather improving markedly from Sunday's cold and damp conditions we had quite a decent turnout for last night's ride, despite core members Lee, Dave, Colin and DaveP being absent for a variety of reasons. Actually, we did briefly see Colin as he passed with his daughter on the tag along – he'd got in a swift ride over the hills while she enjoyed herself at Brownies!

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 20 May - Stop and start'.

Ride Report: Sunday 17th May - Newlands Corner

Originally posted by The Stig.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 09.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

We have been truly spoiled of late, as underlined by the changed weather for the Sunday ride.

With the Met Office selling us a dummy, Jem, DaveC, DaveW, AndyC, Lee, Tony, Paul and myself got a thorough drenching in what turned out to be a 25 mile drudge through the best clag the North Downs has to offer, once water was added.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 17th May - Newlands Corner'.

Ride report: Wednesday 13 May - Puncture school

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 09.

So far there's 5 comment(s) on this post.

After our mammoth ride on Sunday, where we all managed a minimum of 26 miles over to Leith and Holmbury Hills—and some riders quite a bit more—it was time to rein in our sights for last night's ride. With the weather people repeatedly suggesting a drenching was on the cards it was also time to stay closer to home. So Box Hill and Headley it was then.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 13 May - Puncture school'.

Ride report: Sunday 10 May - Leith and Holmbury Hill

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 09.

So far there's 8 comment(s) on this post.

After a bit of confusion over where, when and with who we'd be riding with today, our usual meeting point at Bockett's delivered a solid turnout with Dave, Tony, Colin, Jem, Davebus, John, Keith, Barry and myself being joined by Paul en route to Leith Hill for a day of fine riding. As things transpired though, we were far from the most attractive people out in the woods today; in fact maybe this report should be subtitled Babes in the Wood?

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 10 May - Leith and Holmbury Hill'.

Ride report: Wednesday 6 May - Pitch (Hill) and a Pint

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 09.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Anyone seeing our motley crew walk into the Hurtwood Inn at Peaslake after our Wednesday night ride might have been forgiven for thinking that mountain bikers are at least one sandwich short of a picnic.

After 2 hours of hard night riding across Pitch Hill we were all gabbling very loudly about the highlights of the ride. Things weren't helped by the sight of AndyC turned out in a moleskin jacket (natch), white socks and black brogues teamed with his baggy cycling shorts. Now that's how to make a sartorial statement! He was lucky (as are you all) that I didn't have a camera with me.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 6 May - Pitch (Hill) and a Pint'.

Ride report: Sunday 3 May - Leith Hill

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 09.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

Our first ride in May seemed like a great opportunity to head back toward Leith Hill. After missing the last two weekend rides with, err possible alcohol issues, it was a relief just to make it out onto the trails, now properly dry again and with a much increased amount of leafery as spring progresses.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 3 May - Leith Hill'.

Ride report: Wednesday 29 April - Ranmore, Horlsey and Effingham

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 09.

So far there's 3 comment(s) on this post.

Having missed the perfect riding day that was last Sunday I was determined to get out Wednesday night. It was to be my first ride on my 'pink bike' and despite it being intended for winter use it seems to have turned into my bling bike at the same time.

With the rain earlier this week it was inevitable that the Inbred was going to get muddy and I was going to get twitchy in pretty much equal measure.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 29 April - Ranmore, Horlsey and Effingham'.

Ride Report: Sunday 26th April - Over to Leith Hill

Originally posted by The Stig.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 09.

So far there's 7 comment(s) on this post.

Thankfully, the only thing in common us Moles had on Sunday with the 25,000 or so crazy folks running the Flora London Marathon was that fact that we covered 26 miles.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 26th April - Over to Leith Hill'.

Mixed blessings - Friday commute to work

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 09.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

My Thursday morning was a frustrating mix of no clean shirt ironed, a visit from the gas man over a leaking radiator, a late start to work followed by my car making a very worrying clankety flap noise by the time I'd reached Dorking which turned out to be a de-laminating drive belt. At which point I turned tail, limped home and had the garage say 'Don't drive it!!'

Continue reading 'Mixed blessings - Friday commute to work'.

Ride report: Sunday 12 April - Swinley Forest

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 09.

So far there's 10 comment(s) on this post.

So we finally made it en masse to Swinley after a couple of reconnaisance sorties in the past few weeks. The advance raiding parties brought back favourable reports, tempting 12 of us to get up ridiculously early on a Sunday morning to get there (and back) at a reasonable time.

Picture: Anthony (minibloke on Flickr)

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 12 April - Swinley Forest'.

Ride report: Wednesday 15 April - Ranmore, White Down and Norbury

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 09.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

Before I get into yesterday's ride just a short note of apology to anyone who's commented in the last couple of days. We've just migrated to a slightly more butch server for the website and in the process found comments stalled for a while. Back on track now though so if you have something to say, go on and say it!

But back to the serious business of riding bikes. Last night saw DaveP, Nick(Easynow), Jem, Dave, Tony (Roadie-Dendron) and myself gathering to take on the North Downs Hills, not knowing quite what we would find. Our last ride on Sunday was wet and startlingly slippery so I was a bit unsure where to head for last night.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 15 April - Ranmore, White Down and Norbury'.

Ride report: Sunday 12 April - White Down and Box Hill

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 09.

So far there's 1 comment(s) on this post.

Easter weekend inevitably served a curve ball into our midst. Starting with Lee and Al (congratulations on the birth of your first mini-Mole!) and continuing with Colin and Tony going for the Swinley based brownie-point option on Saturday it was perhaps to be expected that Easter Sunday would see a depleted turnout.

In the end though, things weren't too bad. Dave, John, Darryl, Neil, DaveP and myself met at Bockett's as usual for a 21 mile ride across the Surrey Hills. As I arrived, everyone asked where we were going – err, good question, that was something I'd been wondering myself as I rode up to the car park.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 12 April - White Down and Box Hill'.

Ride report: Saturday 11 April - Swinley Forest

Originally posted by The Stig.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 09.

So far there's 3 comment(s) on this post.

Determined to do something different with my week off work, and inspired by Dave and Jem’s highly successful ride over at Swinley last weekend, I decided my Saturday ride (not even I could live with the guilt of disappearing on Easter Sunday morning) would have to be there, even if it meant going solo.

Fortunately, Tony also declared himself a Saturday-only rider this weekend and joined me for a hideously early departure in order to get back by lunch.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Saturday 11 April - Swinley Forest'.

Moles dig up Swinley Forest

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 09.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

So while the Mole pack cut up the root to Newlands, Jem and I headed over to Swinley on the pretense of taxi duties. It wasn't so much a pretense as an opportunity that was too good to miss. Our other halves we booked on a DirtDivas training day at Crowthorn, a mere three miles form the Look Out car park at Swinley.

Continue reading 'Moles dig up Swinley Forest'.

Swinley Forest trails on Mini DVR1 helmet cam

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 09.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Having threatened for some time to get over to Swinley, Dave and Jem managed to break ranks on Sunday under the pretence of driving their other halves to a skills day, of which more from Dave in due course. Having made the trip it would be rude not to try the trails themselves wouldn't it?

Here's the resulting helmet cam that Dave filmed (using a Mini DVR1) – it all looks pretty good to me and well worth us making a more concerted effort in the near future.

There's more of our footage over on Vimeo if anyone is interested. We're slowly building up some evidence that we ride as well as talk about bikes!

Ride report: Sunday 5 April - Bookham to Newlands Corner

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 09.

So far there's 14 comment(s) on this post.

It all sounds so simple on paper. Get on the bike, ride to Newlands Corner and back covering a distance of 26 miles or so; job done. But what that sentence conceals is the trials, tribulations and effort of taking ten riders, including three newbies across some testing North Downs terrain. Fortunately we all lived to tell the tale.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 5 April - Bookham to Newlands Corner'.

Ride report: Wednesday 1 April - Ranmore, Horsley and Bookham

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 09.

So far there's 7 comment(s) on this post.

I don't know how to describe this ride after enthusing about last Wednesday's night ride — I'm out of superlatives. Really it was a cracking ride. After hearing about the 'new' trails we rode in the Horsley area last week, Jem suggested I showed him and the others the same route tonight. Of those riding (Colin, Jem, DaveP, Matt, Lee and myself) I was the only rider who was on the original ride last week.

You can see where this is going can't you?

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 1 April - Ranmore, Horsley and Bookham'.

Ride Report: Epsom Downs Loop, 29 March

Originally posted by Lee.

Filed under 'Rides' during March 09.

So far there's 8 comment(s) on this post.

With the rather early Spring sunshine of the past few rides deserting us temporarily at times during last week, it was great to wake up on Sunday with a healthy dose of rays streaming through the blinds. Judging by the trees populating neighbouring gardens, the strong northerly wind had also died as per the weatherman’s predictions, so, bar the remnants of a fairly heavy frost, the scene was set for another enjoyable ride around the North Downs.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Epsom Downs Loop, 29 March'.

Ride report: Wednesday 26 March - Ranmore, Horsley and Effingham

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during March 09.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Wow! Like, really wow! Sometimes a ride becomes greater, far greater than the sum of its parts. Tonight's ride was exactly that. Technical singletrack? Nope. Monster miles? Nope. Testing conditions? No, none of that either, just a reasonably fast blast around Ranmore, down to East Horsley and back via Effingham and Bookham Common.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 26 March - Ranmore, Horsley and Effingham'.

Ride report: Friday 20 March - Holmbury and Pitch Hill night ride

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during March 09.

So far there's 7 comment(s) on this post.

At the end of Friday's ride Colin nominated me for the ride report, asking if I could get it done before the morning! To be honest though, I was bombed out after 13 miles across Holmbury and Pitch in the dark, followed by faffing in the rapidly cooling car park and a pint at the Volunteer. I was seriously tired and in the throws of an unpleasant post ride sugar dip. And I'm only just starting to recover!

Continue reading 'Ride report: Friday 20 March - Holmbury and Pitch Hill night ride'.

Pre-Ride Report: Fri 20 March - Holmbury and Pitch Hills

Originally posted by The Stig.

Filed under 'Rides' during March 09.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

What's this, a ride report before the ride! Have I taken leave of my senses? No, but the sun is shining, the trails are sublime and I'm like a dog with two dicks in anticipation of another blast tonight, along with a nice pint afterwards. What a nice change from a post ride energy bar!

Continue reading 'Pre-Ride Report: Fri 20 March - Holmbury and Pitch Hills'.

Ride report: Wed 18 March - Pottering Around the North Downs

Originally posted by The Stig.

Filed under 'Rides' during March 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

Does it get any better than this? First Sunday's excellent blast over to and around Leith and then tonight, a varied and speedy route made all the more enjoyable by the glorious weather and dry trails.

Attendance this evening was a little down on recent numbers with Jem, Tony, DaveP, Nick and myself heading out from Bookham. With no Matt to take the reigns and everyone else seeming quite happy-go-lucky, I suggested a route that met with approval.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wed 18 March - Pottering Around the North Downs'.

Ride report: Sunday 15 March - Bookham to Leith Hill

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during March 09.

So far there's 9 comment(s) on this post.

Well what a day for a ride. Fine spring weather, generally dry trails and a big group of us heading out to ride some great Singletrack round Leith Hill. How big? Well, the roll call at Bocketts included Colin, Jez, Jem, Tony, Dom, DaveW, Rob, Scott, Dave, Lee, JohnR and myself. And it's possible I may have missed someone out, apologies if I have! Oh, and pictures of our Leith Hill ride are on Flickr.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 15 March - Bookham to Leith Hill'.

Ride report: Wednesday 11 Mar - Ranmore and Box Hill

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during March 09.

So far there's 1 comment(s) on this post.

At one point yesterday I wasn't quite sure who was going to be around for the night's ride, with Dave, Colin, Lee and Mark all unavailable and Tony looking doubtful. As it turned out though, I shouldn't have worried and come ride time Tony and myself were joined by DaveP, Matt, JohnR and JezW (who was joining us for the first time). Together we formed a compact and well matched half dozen riders heading up on to the Downs.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 11 Mar - Ranmore and Box Hill'.

Ride report: Sunday 8 March - Ranmore and Abinger Roughs loop

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during March 09.

So far there's 8 comment(s) on this post.

Today's ride was brought to you by the words 'complicated' and 'tiring'. In DaveW's case 'puncture', followed by some other choice words would no doubt apply.

The ride was complicated because we decided to hook up with a group of DoMTB riders who were starting out from Ashtead at 8:00 and tiring is the only word you can use after covering 23 miles in blustery conditions in just three hours without a tea shop in sight.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 8 March - Ranmore and Abinger Roughs loop'.

Ride report: Wednesday 4 March - Norbury loop

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during March 09.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Last night we got out for a ride round what seems to be becoming one of our standard winter routes, probably because it's compact, stays relatively mud free and finishes with a flourish at the end.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 4 March - Norbury loop'.

Ride report: Sunday 1 March - Holmbury and Pitch Hill

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during March 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

So we're into March and it was one of those rides. I didn't want it to end; but it had to, not least because I was knackered after 14 miles over Holmbury and Pitch Hills for an excursion around parts of our lovely Surrey singletrack.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 1 March - Holmbury and Pitch Hill'.

Cwmcarn and Afan Road Trip

Originally posted by The Stig.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 09.

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A break-away faction of Moles joined up with many of the Diary of a Mountain Biker crew for the first road trip of the year. Before any of you with road-riding sympathies get too excited, by road trip I mean hit the road to ride mountain trails!

Continue reading 'Cwmcarn and Afan Road Trip'.

Ride Report: Sunday 22 February, Newlands Corner loop

Originally posted by Lee.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 09.

So far there's 7 comment(s) on this post.

Although today lacked the clear blue skies and comparative warmth of Saturday, there were glimpses on today's ride that Spring is in the air and not far from taking centre stage across these green and pleasant hills. Today saw bare legs from myself and Andy at least (other Moles have stoically battled through the Winter with shorts it should be noted!) and, by and large, the trails were mud free. Not completely dry, but dry enough to keep up a fairly zippy pace and put the bike straight back in the garage when I got home.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 22 February, Newlands Corner loop'.

Ride report: Sunday 15 February - Bookham to Leith Hill

Originally posted by Lee.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

As I stood at the junction with Ranmore Common Road and the track to Yew Tree Farm and saw it had gone 1pm, I knew it had been an 'involved' ride; my legs and lungs were telling me that on their own whilst my GPS was just rubbing my nose in it. Today's ride had certainly been an adventure and wasn't short of incident, or sadly punctures, but more of those later.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 15 February - Bookham to Leith Hill'.

Ride report: Wednesday 11 Feb - Norbury loop

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 09.

So far there's 1 comment(s) on this post.

Figuring it would be wet and muddy out, most of the Moles bailed out of the prospect of a night ride across the Surrey Hills when they could be nice and warm at home or, in Dave and Tony's case, trying to detonate a latex filled tyre in Dave's garage.

But that would have been to miss out on what turned out to be a nice, short leg spinner of a ride in conditions that really weren't that bad.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 11 Feb - Norbury loop'.

Ride report: Sunday 8 February - Bookham to Reigate Hill

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 09.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

It was a day for spinning, not singlespeeding. It was also a day for the committed and when it turned out only Lee and myself had made it to the starting line, we wondered if being committed to an asylum would have been a more sensible option.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 8 February - Bookham to Reigate Hill'.

Ride report: Norbury Park and Box Hill in the snow

Originally posted by Tony.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 09.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

They say that only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun. Well it was a sort of subtle difference today as Jem and I went out in the midday snow.

It has dumped down here the most snow for 20 years so like a couple of big kids Jem and I decided to make the most of it and see what it was going to be like to ride in the snow. How hard could it be? After all this was Surrey not the Iditarod.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Norbury Park and Box Hill in the snow'.

Ride report: Sunday 1 February - Ranmore and Leith Hill loop

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 09.

So far there's 11 comment(s) on this post.

Well we're in to February which can be no bad thing. Today's ride can best be described in terms of stats I think – 10 riders, 24 miles, four punctures, one broken chain, one big crash and one late finish. Quite an eventful ride then.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 1 February - Ranmore and Leith Hill loop'.

Ride report: Wednesday 28 Jan - Ranmore and White Down loop

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 09.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

It wasn't my fault, honest! Last night we headed out for our regular Wednesday night ride, mindful of the heavy rain we've had recently. Nobody expected it to be mud free but last night proved to be some of the muddiest conditions we've had for some time. The Moles got properly muddy for a change!

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 28 Jan - Ranmore and White Down loop'.

Ride report: Sunday 25 January - Holmbury and Pitch Hill

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 09.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

It was supposed to be a XC dash to Newlands corner to include Abba Zabba and Blind Terror 2 but the rain came down and one by one the excuses 'flooded' in (did you see what I did there?). Some of them were quite genuine although we will be expecting a Doctors note for Colin to prove he really has a broken finger.

Some confusion 'reigned' as well and Jem had to divert to Holmbury at the last minute as there'd been some confusion with some guys, who we know are better than us, who thought they wanted to meet us over there this week. So knowing all of this I caught Tony at the end of his road and sent him to Jem's and off we trekked over to Holmbury to meet up.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 25 January - Holmbury and Pitch Hill'.

Ride report: Wednesday 21 Jan - Headley MTB loop

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 09.

So far there's 3 comment(s) on this post.

As usual, Metcheck got it spot on. Normal service has resumed and last night's ride was wet, muddy, relatively mild and very tiring. After last week's huge turnout, this week we were down on numbers with just DaveP, Jason, Matt, Tony, Lee and myself heading up onto the hills.

But first, Happy Birthday to Jem, who was taking the opportunity to celebrate in the pub, with DaveP and Jason determined to join him as soon as possible.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 21 Jan - Headley MTB loop'.

Ride report: Sunday 18 January - Holmbury and Pitch Hill

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

Let's do the summary first. It seems GPS systems still have a way to go. And you can see pictures of our Holmbury and Pitch Hill ride on Flickr.

Today's ride took Toby, Dave, Jem, Andy, Lee and myself over Holmbury and Pitch Hills, starting from Holmbury at 9:00. We started with the intention of following Colin's Bikely route in an attempt to cover some of the best bits of Holmbury and Pitch Hills. The trouble is, without Colin and his hard won local knowledge, we struggled.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 18 January - Holmbury and Pitch Hill'.

Ride report: Wednesday 14 Jan - Norbury and Headley MTB loop

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 09.

So far there's 8 comment(s) on this post.

It seems Upcoming works then. Last night we had 12 (count them, 12!) riders turn up for our regular night ride, possibly on the basis of Upcoming although there was a fair bit of coincidence involved too.

A lot of riders who've threatened to come out for a while actually did for a change. For the record we had Dave, Colin, Nick, Graham, Jeremy, Jem, Tony, John, DaveP, Lee, Mark and myself.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 14 Jan - Norbury and Headley MTB loop'.

Ride report: Sunday 11 January - Bookham to Epsom Downs loop

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 09.

So far there's 12 comment(s) on this post.

Another day, another hard frost overnight—although not as hard as the previous day which saw hoar frost riming the trees all day—meant another fast ride in near summer conditions of grip.

I was in my element. Nine of us set out from Bocketts Farm (if you will then, Dave, Jem, Jez, Lee, Tony, Andy, Toby, Chris and myself) for an early meeting with Alsation, this time as a gruelling climb rather than Wednesday's quick decent. Not much fun and I didn't see many of us smiling as we slogged up. But the weather was cold and the ground frozen which was something at least.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 11 January - Bookham to Epsom Downs loop'.

Ride report: Wednesday 7 Jan - Norbury Park MTB loop

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 09.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

With the weather continuing cold, last night claimed a few victims of the fair weather variety. Actually, that's a bit harsh as most seemed to be pretty busy elsewhere but it did mean that we had a depleted turnout for our regular night ride.

So it was that Dave, Lee, Felix and myself were the only ones to venture up onto the hills. I'd planned a nice compact route so we had the option of bailing early if it proved too cold or conditions too dicey but as it happened we were rewarded with a great 14 or 15 mile ride.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Wednesday 7 Jan - Norbury Park MTB loop'.

Ride report: Sunday 4 Jan - Bookham to Gatton Park loop

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 09.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

I can't claim any originality for this ride. Colin mapped it a few weeks back with the Diary of a Mountain Biker crew and reckoned it was worth repeating, so much so that we took him up on his offer.

The original plan was to rendezvous with the repeat DoMTB ride but they eventually started too late for us and from Ashtead too which meant by the time they reached a suitable meeting point I'd be running out of man–points rather too quickly in the year for my wife's liking. A shame really as I'd have liked to meet up with Rich and the guys.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 4 Jan - Bookham to Gatton Park loop'.

Afan in December - Head in the clouds

Originally posted by Tony.

Filed under 'Rides' during December 08.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

On Sunday morning I got up early(ish) and drove down to Afan from my in–laws, about 50 miles. A lot nearer than Surrey and a good incentive to go visiting! The closer I got the weirder the weather got.

Continue reading 'Afan in December - Head in the clouds'.

Ride report: Sunday 21 December

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during December 08.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

The year is drawing to a close, and an eventful one at that. With mild weather and no rain for a couple of days at least we got out for a tramp around the Surrey Hills, which turned out to be a nice good ol' cross country mix around Headley and Norbury Park.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 21 December'.

Mountain biking in Dorset - beyond our backyard

Originally posted by Lee.

Filed under 'Rides' during December 08.

So far there's 5 comment(s) on this post.

I often have to remind myself quite how lucky I am to live in an area which has such an embarrassment of riches for the discerning mountain biker. Around fifteen minutes from most of our front doors are the beginnings of some of the most revered trails in the South East of England.

Understandably, it is the hills of Leith, Holmbury and Pitch for which the area is best regarded by locals and visitors alike, and whilst they may lack the rugged, pre–historic aggression of the Peaks or Lakes, the miles of sweet testing singletrack more than compensates for any huge lung–busting climbs or eye-bleeding descents.

Photo by treehouse1977.

Continue reading 'Mountain biking in Dorset - beyond our backyard'.

Ride report: 7 December

Originally posted by Lee.

Filed under 'Rides' during December 08.

So far there's 6 comment(s) on this post.

After a couple of weeks off the bike I went to bed on Saturday night hoping for anything but rain and snow the next morning. Luckily a few hours later I was presented with a classic wintry scene of heavy frost and watery sunshine. A perfect start to the day.

Continue reading 'Ride report: 7 December'.

Ride Report: 23 November

Originally posted by Lee.

Filed under 'Rides' during November 08.

So far there's 10 comment(s) on this post.

With the sight of snow falling as I peered through the blinds this morning I knew it heralded a testing ride; for body as well as soul. Although to some degree, I took comfort that the night’s harsh frost would have left crunchy and crisp trails for us to plunder. However as I left the house, with snow now making way for hard sleety rain, I did stop and wonder whether I might be better off back in bed.

Continue reading 'Ride Report: 23 November'.

Clear night

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during November 08.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

Last night was a rare thing. A dry, clear night with broken cloud cover which after the soul destroying past few weeks came as a welcome relief to all involved. It was a real pleasure to be out on semi dry trails with a carefully chosen route to avoid some of the notorious mud holes in the area.

Continue reading 'Clear night'.

Ride report: Sunday 26 Oct

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during October 08.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

With Metcheck predicting rain it was perhaps no surprise that Sunday saw us getting wetter than a sackful of cod. It rained, persistently and without let up for most of the ride, providing hazardous riding conditions and testing our general resolve.

Continue reading 'Ride report: Sunday 26 Oct'.

Ride Report: Sunday 20th Oct

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during October 08.

So far there's 1 comment(s) on this post.

Bucking the trend of recent weeks I managed to join our ride (Dave, Rich, Jem, Jez, John, Lee and myself) yesterday for 23 miles of riding across Ranmore, White Downs, Box Hill and Mickleham. And there was I thinking I was just the person who talked about mountain biking rather than actually doing it!

Continue reading 'Ride Report: Sunday 20th Oct'.

Riding the South Downs Way (SDW)

Originally posted by Jez.

Filed under 'Rides' during October 08.

So far there's 1 comment(s) on this post.

By the reference to nice weather you may guess that this was written much earlier in the year but has been gathering dust on my hard drive…

The South Downs Way is a 100 mile route from Winchester to Eastbourne and I finally got around to giving it a go. A mate and I chose to ride the route over two days, which seemed enough of a challenge without being stupid hard. How wrong we were.

Continue reading 'Riding the South Downs Way (SDW)'.

First ride off-road

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during September 08.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Yesterday morning I took my first ride off-road after breaking my collarbone back in July — July 13th if we're counting, which I am! When I say off-road, that's a relative statement. Put it this way, it was only partially on tarmac which is 'A Good Thing'.

Continue reading 'First ride off-road'.

Morning ride

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during September 08.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

I left the house at 6:25 this morning. All was quiet with just a couple of newspaperboys sharing the road and the odd car driven by an unlucky soul with an impractical commute ahead of them or an absolute need to be at work early.

Continue reading 'Morning ride'.

Wed 17th Night Ride

Originally posted by The Stig.

Filed under 'Rides' during September 08.

So far there's 12 comment(s) on this post.

Usual place, usual time - Hylands Garage, Bookham @ 7:30pm.

Continue reading 'Wed 17th Night Ride'.

Raves, Rings and offs

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 08.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

Well it was a ride of two halves as the saying sort of goes. Regrettably it ended up involving 3 vehicles from the Ambulance service as well....

Continue reading 'Raves, Rings and offs'.

Pitch and a Pint Night Ride

Originally posted by The Stig.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 08.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

So this week’s ride did go ahead after all. Once again Lee joined us, this time for his first ever night outing. Four hardcore gnarly types (!) wouldn’t let the foul English summer weather put us off and Lee’s determination to ride came from having just invested in some Ay-Up led lights (great purchase btw and hopefully Lee will add a review soon).

Continue reading 'Pitch and a Pint Night Ride'.

Bike Envy

Originally posted by The Stig.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 08.

So far there's 4 comment(s) on this post.

OK, envy is probably the wrong word, more like admiration. On today's excellent ride (more on that later) we were joined by Lee on his second ride out with us.

Continue reading 'Bike Envy'.

Pitch (Hill) Perfect

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 08.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

Summer's here!

And with all these long, warm evenings we've been making a semi-regular pilgrimage over to Pitch Hill, starting from the Peaslake Stores, heading off for some great evening rides and finishing off at the Hurtwood Inn for a sweet pint.

Continue reading 'Pitch (Hill) Perfect'.

On my knees

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 08.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

Perhaps in hindsight, heading off down a new piece of trail consisting of a combination of greasy mud and chalk, sharp flints, rooty ladders and little hops over fallen saplings, stretching out over a mile and a half of ribbon wide, looping singletrack that contoured beautifully down toward Juniper Bottom in the fading light, after a day of heavy rain was not the best idea of last night's ride.

Continue reading 'On my knees'.

Group ride with Diary of a Mountain Biker

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 08.

So far there's 1 comment(s) on this post.

So Sunday as usual at Bockett's Farm? Well, kind of. It wasn't until reasonably late in the day that I realised we were meeting up with a whole bunch of riders from Diary of a Mountain Biker to show them round 'our' stretch of the North Downs.

Continue reading 'Group ride with Diary of a Mountain Biker'.

Thoughts on this weeks night ride

Originally posted by The Stig.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 08.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

The Muddymoles night ride last night really seemed to put a line in the sand in many ways.

Continue reading 'Thoughts on this weeks night ride'.

Blind terror on the North Downs

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 08.

So far there's 1 comment(s) on this post.

What great weather we're currently enjoying for mountain biking. It's almost enough to make up for the terrible summer we had last year, with firm dry ground, clear skies and sparkling, frosted surroundings still covered in last autumn's fallen leaf cover.

Continue reading 'Blind terror on the North Downs'.

When to Brake

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during November 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

I realise the title implies that I might know something about this pastime, but it's more a case of process of elimination.

Matt and I were out on Sunday, pounding the trails on what now seems to be our 22 mile regular ride, when we tackled a short descent that we'd not done for maybe a couple of years. It's a chalky, stoney, steep little descent that had a 90° right hander just at the steepest bit, with the added fun of a rather large gully.

This is something that had kept us entertained one summer with notable efforts from our dear friend Simon who has been responsible for taking out a few saplings during a dismount on the way down.

Continue reading 'When to Brake'.

Reflections on the Trail

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during November 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

So for once I've managed to keep my leg over on a regular basis while others around me have fallen or refused at the first hurdle!

The trails are heading towards wintery and for me it can't happen soon enough. I hate this thin layer of mud that is currently sitting over the still hard base layer of soil or chalk. The leaves don't make it easy either, covering a multitude of hazards.

Continue reading 'Reflections on the Trail'.

Easy come, easy go

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during October 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

It's happened again.

I've been ambushed by the trail pixies who in the past have managed to separate me from my bike lights, last week caused me to unclip spectacularly painfully on the Land Rover descent and now have run off with my cycling glasses.

Continue reading 'Easy come, easy go'.

And now the end is near…

Originally posted by Mark.

Filed under 'Rides' during October 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Since buying my new On One frame I have planned to make my old 1999 Marin Nail Trail out for one last Valkarian ride, and then take it out behind the barn and quietly shoot it. Like most 'last things' this turned out to be more difficult than planned and as disappointing as these things always turn out to be (like the last doughnut before going on your diet, or the last shag with your girlfriend before she becomes your wife).

Continue reading 'And now the end is near…'.

Autumn perfection

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during September 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Occassionally, everything comes together to make a cycle ride greater than you could have ever hoped.

Sunday was just such an experience. After weeks (months) of depression grey skies, Sunday was bright, crisp and blue and followed on from a couple of weeks of rain-free weather. The result just goes to show what we have missed out on all summer, tinder dry, dusty trails and an extra shot of enthusiasm from the riders.

Continue reading 'Autumn perfection'.

Voodoo Wanga and On-One Inbred go head to head

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during September 07.

So far there's 2 comment(s) on this post.

A beautiful day in early September gives Jem and I an opportunity to ride from Fetcham to Newlands Corner on our singlespeeds. It's Jem's first ride on his New Voodoo Wanga.

Continue reading 'Voodoo Wanga and On-One Inbred go head to head'.

I live in a strange world

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during August 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

If you're someone who likes to combine the delights of a hot summer sun with Mountain Biking fun, this year has not been the best. Ok, so the weather has rarely been bad enough to stop us going out but barring a biblical shower of frogs we've had just about every climatic condition possible. Coming straight after the dire drought predictions of early Spring, this Summer has been a disappointment to say the least.

Continue reading 'I live in a strange world'.

Summer lovin'

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during August 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

I don't like it.

After weeks and weeks of disgruntled moaning from the UK population in general (those that haven't just floated off into the sunset) and the Mountain Bike community in particular, something seems to be afoot.

Continue reading 'Summer lovin''.

Washed out trails

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Last night Dave, Nicola and myself headed out on a ride.

Just for a change, it was raining, although not much more than a light drizzle and in any case the weather was warm. Thankfully we're not in the same boat as most of Gloucestershire (it seems literally) so it's a bit churlish to complain but if we could just have a dry run from here to, say December I'd be very happy.

In fact, I keep telling anyone who will listen not to worry, at this rate we'll be sun-bathing on Christmas Day!

Continue reading 'Washed out trails'.

A trip round Leith And Holmbury Hills

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Sunday, and wonder of wonders, plenty of sun. Having decided a couple of weeks back to take a trip over to Leith Hill the fact the weather was fine was the icing on the cake.

Figuring it was best to make the most of it before The Flood returns, we started at Staveall car park and pointed our bikes down the Mother toward Holmbury Hill. What a wake up call! I haven't been down there for some time and had trouble just seeing where I was going as the heavy rains have washed loads of rubble and loose stones down the track, added to which my contact lenses were struggling to stay in contact with my eyeballs.

Continue reading 'A trip round Leith And Holmbury Hills'.

Mountain Biking - there's always an alternative

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Last night's ride proved that no matter how much you plan something, it doesn't always work out the way you hoped.

First of course there was the persistently poor weather to contend with, yet another wet ride in muddy conditions. Yay!

Then we had trouble all getting together. Dave discovered he was double booked and had to pull out during the day whilst Jem and Dave P were out Wednesday night instead. Hannah was unwisely sent to meet us in an obscure part of Leatherhead (don't ask!), so that left just Mark, Nicola and me to venture out into the wilds of the Surrey Hills.

Continue reading 'Mountain Biking - there's always an alternative'.

Whatever the weather

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

To paraphrase T.S. Eliot, June was the cruelest month, what with all the rain, wind and mud.

Yesterday was the third Sunday in a row when we got properly wet and muddy out on the trails (it may have been four, I can't remember the last time it was sunny) and the mid week rides have been pretty frustrating as well. Trails that were hard packed and dusty during April and May have turned into slick root-infested nightmares, making it hard to get into a decent flow.

Continue reading 'Whatever the weather'.

Bedgebury, three thoughts from an MTB rider in Kent

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during June 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Whilst I stood with Matt, sheltering from the rain outside the refreshment area, looking out onto a calm but pock marked lake where only ducks feared to venture and Swifts swooped low, two observations came to mind.

1. It was wet. Very wet.
2. Portion Control was poor.

A third observation joined these slightly later;

3. Wind in the gents was very strong...

Continue reading 'Bedgebury, three thoughts from an MTB rider in Kent'.

Bedgebury Forest return

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during June 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Just back from a morning at Bedgebury Forest and it seems all this venturing beyond the Surrey Hills appears to be habit forming!

With Wimbledon about to start and Glastonbury in full swing, any sane person would have realised that there was more than a fair chance that it might rain. And boy did it rain!

I can confidently say that I have never, ever been wetter or muddier over 18 miles of forest singletrack than I was today at Bedgebury. The rain just fell down, stair-rod style for almost the entire time we were there, adding extra centimetres of water to the already soaked trails.

Continue reading 'Bedgebury Forest return'.

Girls and Mountain Biking

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Mark and I were out at the weekend, covering a good 23 miles of the Surrey Hills in what turned out to be a fine Sunday for riding. We left Bookham behind and made our way over to Ranmore, then Westcott and back up to Ranmore before the descent through Denbies vinyard and the slog up Box Hill for our scheduled cake stop and the chance to hang out with the roadies.

Now as Mountain Bikers we are often faced with the uncomfortable fact that it's a male dominated activity. We have resigned ourselves to this over the years and nowadays face it with a Stoic acceptance that would have been greatly admired in Ancient Rome. With young families we can even understand it, to a point, when someone has to stay behind to look after the kids (sorry that sounds chauvanist. It's not meant to and despite my best efforts Quid Pro Quo operates in our house).

Continue reading 'Girls and Mountain Biking'.

Singlespeeding

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Last week's night ride was a less relentless pace to the previous week. With the gears on my Inbred continuing to play up, preventing me selecting the granny ring, I started to toy with an idea I alluded to in my 11 things for Mountain Bikers post.

Singlespeeding.

Continue reading 'Singlespeeding'.

Bouncing bike lights

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

I appear to suffer much misfortune when it comes to bike lights, particularly my rear light.

Over the past three years I have gone through at least two per winter, invariably losing them at some undetermined point in a ride in the middle of night with no chance to ever finding them again. I believe they may be secretly hoarded by a particular type of nocturnal trail pixie that's running a pixie brothel and needs the red lights to drum up business.

Continue reading 'Bouncing bike lights'.

I made my bike meow

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Last night's mid week night ride took us over toward Ranmore and the White Downs at a furious pace.

We were joined by some of Jem's friends and Nicola which brought the group to eight riders. It quickly became apparant that fitness levels covered a broad spectrum, with most of Jem's mates in the top half of the group. I managed to hang on to them (just) and at dusk found myself hooning down the descent off the White Downs toward Westcott at high speed.

Continue reading 'I made my bike meow'.

Down to earth with a bump

Originally posted by Mark.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

As I am the only Mole who didn’t get a name check in Matt’s post about our outing to Holmbury Hill, (probably due to the fact I made it the whole way round without falling off or breaking my Mountain Bike), I thought I might post a few words about last night’s ride.

It was a really pleasant evening ride, right up to the point that I took a tumble off the bike.

Continue reading 'Down to earth with a bump'.

One bike and two men down!

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

Sunday saw us travelling over to Holmbury Hill for some fun on the dusty dry trails that have suddenly appeared everywhere.

The plan was to make the most of Dave and Jem's new Orange Fives and have a morning of Mountain Biking fun in the Surrey Hills singletrack.

Continue reading 'One bike and two men down!'.

Surrey Hills riding conditions

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during March 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

My commute into work takes me along the A24 to Dorking, past Box Hill and the Denbies vinyard and escarpment.

Driving in this morning, the weather is warm and dry, the hawthorn hedges are just about to burst into life, the sun is shining and the sky is blue. Perfect conditions in fact to put some zest back into tired legs.

When I got into work, one of the first things my colleague said to me was 'bet you'd like to be out riding today?'

Yes, is the short answer! Anyone who has some time on their hands today should head for the hills.

The changing face of riding

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 07.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

After an extended break I made it out onto the trails at the weekend in the company of Dave, Jem and Neil.

Continue reading 'The changing face of riding'.

Night riding

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during August 06.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

So the nights have started to draw in again, not immediately obvious perhaps given that's it's only mid August, until you try to get out on the bike in the evenings. Starting at 7:30 it doesn't take more than an hour before there's an obvious need for lights out on the trails.

Continue reading 'Night riding'.

Good times

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during July 06.

So far there's 0 comment(s) on this post.

So I'm back in the saddle. Not literally as I type* although that would be a clever trick, but metaphorically, as a way of saying I'm back riding the trails again and more importantly, enjoying it.

Continue reading 'Good times'.

Aches – or it seemed like a good idea at the time

Originally posted by Mark.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 06.

So far there's 1 comment(s) on this post.

Over the last 8 weeks I have managed to get out on my bike about twice. For various reasons, my routine has been very disrupted, so in total I have not actually ridden more than about 15 miles.

Continue reading 'Aches – or it seemed like a good idea at the time'.

Leith Hill

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during May 06.

So far there's 1 comment(s) on this post.

A story about how much I hate Wolverns Lane, cycling with teenagers who have too much energy, helmet camera trials, meeting friends not seen for a long time and massive energy crashes! A tale of everyday riding you might say!

Continue reading 'Leith Hill'.

In the shit

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 06.

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I had a number of titles that came to mind while riding home.

Continue reading 'In the shit'.

Gaiters

Originally posted by Mark.

Filed under 'Rides' during April 06.

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According to the Oxford English Dictionary gaiters are: -

Continue reading 'Gaiters'.

At last, 'real' winter riding

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 06.

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After the nasty shock of the alarm I ambled into the kitched to hear the sounds of rain on the roof. Real winter riding is back!

Continue reading 'At last, 'real' winter riding'.

A cold winter ride

Originally posted by Matt.

Filed under 'Rides' during February 06.

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I rode into work this morning, 12 miles of mainly off-road fun along the North Downs to Reigate. Unfortunately it was not without it's niggles.

Continue reading 'A cold winter ride'.

What is an average ride like?

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during January 06.

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It struck me that anyone stumbling upon the "new" blog might wonder what sort of ride is "average" for us on a Sunday.

Continue reading 'What is an average ride like?'.

Quite chilly really!

Originally posted by Dave.

Filed under 'Rides' during December 05.

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With both Sundays over the Christmas period being covered with notable days we had to organise a midweek ride to ensure some fat was burnt off. We had a new boy join us...

Continue reading 'Quite chilly really!'.