Messages

1

Routes / Great Divide and a lot of questions

« on: January 26, 2006, 12:32:51 pm »

I did the route 2 years ago as part of the Adventure cycling organised tour.

There are a few basic precautions you need to follow, I believe they are in the book (hanging food etc).  The precautions are a preventative habit to minimise the chances of bad things happening.  
I'd sum it up by saying its something to be aware of, not something to worry about constantly.

I know plenty of people that have ridden it solo.  It is perfectly do-able as long as you ride within your limitations.  One or two companions fell and picked up injuries on my trip, kind strangers always stopped to help.  In reality, theres only 2 or 3 places on the whole route that I really felt were desolate.  Anywhere else I was confident that people were always within reach.

August *should* be fine to start, the earlier the better.  If you start in August you will HAVE to do North to South (most people do anyway).  Of course, mother nature always has the final say

It's certainly a special route, enjoy it.

2

General Discussion / Cycling Holiday

« on: January 26, 2006, 12:18:17 pm »

I cycled from John O Groats across the North coast of Scotland a few years ago.  I cant remember in detail but I do recollect that in general the gradients were quite benign.  In fact, surprisingly flat for a coastal area.

The weather will play a big role in the perceived difficulty of the trip.  It could be a pleasure or a nightmare depending on what you encounter.

The north of Scotland is probably as remote as you get in the British Isles.  Plan your stops / food carefully.  
I stayed in youth hostels on my trip.  They are basic but clean and well located up there.  Worth looking in to as they generally have storage for bicycles and drying rooms etc.