Canal Commuting

mikeitup

TheFoolio888 wrote:

Hi all...

I'm just about to start a new job and my commute is going to take me along 2-3 miles of canal towpaths. I quite looking forward to getting off the roads and away from the loony tin can drivers. Just wondering how people find this?

I think I'm more concerned about being mugged or pushed in the canal by some ruffian rather than anythng else as some of the route is through some shady areas. Does anyone ever have any problems?

never had any probs myself. Make sure you download and print off a British Waterways Cycling permit. They are free and it isn't unknown for them to do spot checks.

Tariq

This might sound like an insane idea, nonetheless I'd appreciate any constructive advice.

I've been cycling on canal tow-paths for three years and I want to cycle along the Grand Union Canal from Birmingham to London, with 3-4 overnight stops in hotels.

Is this feasible? In particular, I would welcome information on any part(s) of the route which are impassable on a bike.

tomfoolery

I reckon that'd be great Tariq, although it could be slow going in places. There are good books/booklets out there for cycling along canals. If you get a recent one specifically for the Grand Union that'll tell you all you need to know. http://www.waterscape.com has a little bit on towpath quality for each canal which might start you off.

SmellTheGlove

johnnyc71 wrote:

I find you can cruise at 15 mph, no problems.

Given the earlier discussion I think care should be exercised when cruising on towpaths :?

prj45

SmellTheGlove wrote:

Given the earlier discussion I think care should be exercised when cruising on towpaths :?

Especially, at 15mph, on a pushbike!

Tariq

Thanks Tom(foolery), I've got the maps and read a few books but still a little unsure of the journey. I guess I will try it out this summer.....and I have my Scwalbe marathon plus tyres in place!