Although travel has been somewhat limited over the last year, the Tru-Tension Team like many others, have managed to rack up a lot of miles on the bike. We miss those long summer days during the first Lockdown, where exercise was the remedy to the uncertainty, allowing the body and mind to escape the confines of the home for a blissful few hours. Whether you’ve hopped on the turbo trainer indoors or braved the wintery roads over the past few months we are sure you’re yearning for sunshine, dry weather and more welcoming conditions.
With the roadmap out of the UKs Lockdown being laid out for us, it has become abundantly clear that we should embrace the environment on our doorstep before considering hopping on a plane to a sunnier setting. It is far more realistic for us to stay local this summer; to enjoy the beauty that the UK has to offer and discover places previously overlooked. The Team have come up with a list of their top UK routes they’re looking forward to riding this summer.
Cambrian Mountains
For Gravel Riders and Mountain Bikers the Cambrian Mountains in Mid-Wales offer sprawling ridges, deep descents and challenging climbs that will test your ability. Be prepared for fast-changing weather and road conditions, your hard work becomes worth it when you get a chance to enjoy the views. Although not a specific route, we feel this area offers uncompromising riding that continues to impress us.
Richmond Park, London
For the fixie/single speed riders out there, Richmond Park in London has a huge appeal, no wonder it is one of the city’s most popular cycle destinations. Ideal for riders of all abilities, the park is somewhere to test yourself; with circuits that climb Broomfield Hill or the more formidable Dark Hill, it is a destination we long to return to. The beauty of this location also lies within it’s social aspect; the ability to meet friends and ride a circuit together as there is something for everyone, to enjoy some well-needed social time somewhere across the 2500 acres of land and to take in the skyline of the city from a distance.
Snowdonia 3 Valleys Circular
Snowdonia in North Wales boasts some of the most picturesque landscape in Wales, headed by the Snowdon Massif and surrounding valleys that encompass much of the National Park. A circular loop we discovered on CycleSeven, encompassing Snowdon’s 3 surrounding valleys, Nant Gwynant, Nant Peris, Nant y Betws, is high on our list of road rides. At 30 miles this route is accessible in length, however some accescent may be rather testing for the average rider – make sure to try those brakes! Surrounded by mountains and the quintessential Welsh countryside, we cannot wait to ride this in the springtime.
The Camel Trail, Cornwall
Situated between the Cornish towns of Bodmin and Padstow the Camel Trail links these 2 towns along the lines of a dis-used railway line. This 18 miler is a great day out with the family and can be completed by all abilities, being relatively level and fully pedestrianized. Skirting the Camel Estuary and further outward towards Bodmin Moor the gentle views of the natural environment greet you with open arms. Bring on the sunshine, the sea and the ice creams – not long now!
Hayfield to Jacob’s Ladder, Peak District
For our more northern riders, we know you will be aware of Jacob’s Ladder. This classic Dark Peak Route attacks Jacob’s Ladder, Rushup Edge and Roych Clough descents. A tough route but a favourite for the gnarlier members of the team, this ride has multiple technical descents and hard climbs. Descending Jacob’s Ladder itself, with it’s super rocky top section followed by a fast overland track, with jumps heading into the woods at the end makes for a pretty epic ride.
Applecross via Bealach na Bà, Scotland
A Bucket List ride for the roadies among us, the Bealach na Bà (or Pass of the Cattle in Gailich) is one of the UKs most exciting climbs. Sitting at the highest mountain pass in Britain (626meters to be precise), this ride is riddled with switchbacks and shadowed by thundering mountains, you could be in the Alps – weather permitting, it is Scotland afterall! 9kms of riding over the pass is worth it upon reaching the summit, the views out to the Isle of Skye are unforgettable. Married with the satisfaction of completing the climb and beginning the descent into Applecross, you’ll undertake a solid day’s riding. If you’re interested in riding in Scotland, head on over to GCN and check out Si and Mark’s race around the North Coast 500 here.
Bristol to Bath
On our doorstep, the Bristol to Bath cycle route is an iconic 15 mile route familiar to cyclists across the Bristol/Bath area. This traffic free route boasts unspoilt views of the rolling landscape that connects Bristol to Bath, an enjoyable day out for all ability levels. Many members of the team have fond recollections of this trail, undertaking the ride at a young age – it is guaranteed to make memories. When spending time with loved ones at the moment can be tricky, the team have enjoyed trips out with family and friends along this route, providing a safe space for all abilities of riders to come together and enjoy traffic-free riding. Perhaps not as epic as other routes, but certainly as enjoyable.
Bicycle Maintenance Tools & Products with Tru-Tension
Here at Tru-Tension, we specialise in designing and manufacturing a wide range of high-quality bicycle maintenance tools and products. If you’re looking to get more out of your bike and ensure it is ready for riding in the rain, be sure to browse our product range today.