Beginner on London to Brighton 2013

Bootle888

Hi
This summer I wanted to set myself a challenge so me and my dad have entered the BHF London to Brighton. I am 14 years old and don't really have much cycling experience. I have a Carrera Valour mountain bike with specialized road tyres fitted to it.
I was just wondering if anyone could give me any advice on how much training I need to do for it and if anyone has any advice or tips for the day itself. I am looking forward to it but am also quite nervous about not being able to finish it!
Thanks a lot
Sam

Gazzaputt

There will a lot of walking up the hills!

Seriously though if you can manage 30-35 mile ride you'll do L2B no problem.

Gradually build up to completing distance goals say 10, 20, 30 miles.

Eat and drink enough on the day and take a break when you feel you need it.

Good luck and enjoy.

Bootle888

Gazzaputt wrote:

There will a lot of walking up the hills!

Seriously though if you can manage 30-35 mile ride you'll do L2B no problem.

Gradually build up to completing distance goals say 10, 20, 30 miles.

Eat and drink enough on the day and take a break when you feel you need it.

Good luck and enjoy.

Cheers, definitely walking up ditching beacon! Saying that, apparently it's impossible to cycle up with all the congestion anyway. Thanks for the advice

Nick Cod

Ditching is the only real challenge, but as long as you keep turning the pedals you should be able to do it easily on a MTB. Good ride every cyclist should do at some point

See you on the beach for fish and chips

andrewmontgomery

I'd agree with that. When I did L2B in 2008, my only training was the 16km commute to work (which I certainly didn't manage every day). I did the odd longer ride in Richmond Park.

Just take your time on the day. It's all pretty relaxed. And have fun!

simonhead

Only thing i would add is dress comftorably, you dont need to go and spend a fortune on lycra but a decent set of shorts would be worth investing in.

Bootle888

Yes, I will do, and maybe a padded saddle cover too!

northpole

Apart from making sure you engage in regular exercise I'd recommend you get a pair of padded cycling shorts (even if you decide to wear them below baggy shorts); chamois creme (seems very odd if you aren't familiar with it, but you'll be glad if you use it!); padded gloves - mtb grips can be very harsh on your hands over a longish ride. Depending on the condition of your bike, I'd recommend you have it serviced a month or slightly less before the event - that will ensure any glitches have been made good beforehand. Slightly less techy - make sure you and your dad have a load of porridge for breakfast on the day - great for providing energy.

Peter