South Downs Way - Need some opinions!
A group of us are considering cycling the South Downs Way this summer, having done some research it recomends that the cycling should take 3 days at a reasonable pace, but other people have done it in a day.
Please could I have a 'no BS' assesment as to what really is possible. We're all pretty fit with varying cycling abilities but August bank holiday is far enough ahead that we can do some training to make it easier.
We're based a couple of miles from QE Park so could use that as a starting point if its not deemed possible to ride the whole thing. Planning on leaving at around 5am (dawn) to make the most of the day.
Who has done it? I need some info!
Please could I have a 'no BS' assesment as to what really is possible. We're all pretty fit with varying cycling abilities but August bank holiday is far enough ahead that we can do some training to make it easier.
We're based a couple of miles from QE Park so could use that as a starting point if its not deemed possible to ride the whole thing. Planning on leaving at around 5am (dawn) to make the most of the day.
Who has done it? I need some info!
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Also bear in mind that your overnight stops will probably be some distance from the route itself - and again involve coming off the ridge and climbing back up first thing the next day (not ideal after a full English!). While the route itself probably looks doable in 2 days, when you add on these extra bits I think 3 is better, especially as there might be some wet weather, which will make it tougher.
Having said all that, if you start from QE park, I think 2 days should be fine. Hope that helps!
Gary Fisher HKEK (for commuting)
You could however plan a couple of fabulous day rides from your QE park base and include much of the SDW from there - I'd really go for this option if you don't want to book more accomodation etc. There are some great books available with 3-4 hour routes around there, and it should be easy to link some of these, while QE park has some great trails too. Also worth checking in with a couple of the local bike shops, who'll probably have some useful suggestions, or even a couple of route maps they could send you.
Best of luck!
Gary Fisher HKEK (for commuting)
8)
trek 1.5 2010
Orbea Alma H70
The British Heart Foundation runs an annual SDW ride from WInchester and lots of people do it in a day so it is achievable. The super-fit do the 'double (there and back) in under 24hrs :shock:
If you looking for websites, this one is quite useful - Bikedowns