Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.9, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # WillCycle Because you deserve some adventure in your life ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.willcycle.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Posts](https://www.willcycle.com/posts/) - The future’s so bright Adventure Draft Route Guide DayCycle, Traffic-free Adventure TransAm, by Paul K W Dunt Book Review Central Park Devon Fairy Trails Better world Plymouth Cycle Route Network Adventure Revelstoke Drive Devon WillCycle Mapping Adventure Bay to Bay Multi-use path Cornwall, DayCycle - [River Wey Navigation traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/river-wey-navigation-traffic-free/) - The Wey Navigation follows the River Wey, from where it flows into the Thames through Guildford, to link up with the Down Link. Blissful, serene towpath cycling - [Couch to Cycle Camping](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/couch-to-cycle-camping/) - Couch to Cycle Camping is simply a way to help you go for your first cycle camping experience. Full of tips, it will help simplify that first adventure! - [Kit Review - TyreKey](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/kit-review-tyrekey/) - The battle of getting tight tyres onto a rim It's easy to see where the TyreKey got it's name from - it looks much like a large key. There are two versions of the TyreKey, and I was given the newer version to try, which was redesigned to cope better with fatter tyres and wider - [A suggested cycle touring pack list](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/cycle-touring-pack-list/) - A deeper look at a cycle touring pack list, with a starter cycle touring pack list. A cycle touring pack list helps you not forget something crucial. - [Cycle touring - the little things](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/cycle-touring-the-little-things/) - You've probably seen plenty of cycle touring packing lists before but are you aware of these rather important small items that so many such lists don't include? - [Is cycle touring dangerous?](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/is-cycle-touring-dangerous/) - Is cycle touring dangerous? Let's examine the risks objectively. Some of the risks we can compare it to will leave you surprised yet you never worry about those - [Cycling Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/cycling-irelands-wild-atlantic-way/) - Irelands fabulous Wild Atlantic Way is but a ferry and perhaps 2 train rides away from the UK, and cycling the Wild Atlantic Way is a wonderful adventure! - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 12](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-day-12/) - Yesterday's post ended with me having reached Tralee. Before I continue the tale, I really need to point out that my journey is a snapshot in time, filtered through my personal views. A personal journey If I passed though a place 30 minutes earlier, or 30 minutes later, my experiences and perceptions may have been - [Colliers Way traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/routes/somerset/colliers-way-traffic-free-cycle-route/) - Colliers Way is a 9 mile cycle route along a disused railway, in Somerset. It offers blissful traffic-free cycling and is suitable for even young kids. - [The Stover Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/the-stover-trail/) - The Stover Trail links Newton Abbott with Bovey Tracey along a mostly traffic-free route that can be suitable even for children. It makes for a great day out - [Bugle Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/bugle-trail/) - Bugle Trail is part of the Cornish Clay Trails network. Combined with the Par Beach Trail & an on-road link from St Blaizey you can cycle to the Eden Project - [Wye Valley Greenway](https://www.willcycle.com/routes/gloucestershire/wye-valley-greenway/) - The Wye Valley Greenway is a stunning, 5 mile route that is not only useable by trikes, cargo bikes and more, but is also wheelchair-friendly. - [Revelstoke Drive](https://www.willcycle.com/routes/devon/revelstoke-drive/) - Revelstoke Drive is a beautiful, and very popular walking route around the Noss Mayo peninsula, in the South Hams part of Devon. - [Central Park](https://www.willcycle.com/routes/devon/central-park/) - This 1.7 mile route through Plymouth's Central Park is perfect for kids, as well as new and nervous cyclists. With 2 cafés and sea views, it has a LOT to offer! - [The future's so bright](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-futures-so-bright/) - I haven't posted anything new on WillCycle for what feels like an eternity. I haven't been slacking though. No, I've been extremely busy on the back-end of the site. New features WillCycle now has what I can honestly describe as a superb mapping system. It started off as an idea, quite some time ago, to - [Basingstoke Canal – Saturn Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/basingstoke-canal-saturn-trail/) - The Saturn Trail follows the Basingstoke Canal. This guide include a short section of the river Wey towpath. At just about 9 miles, this is a very scenic route. - [Camel Trail, Wenford branch](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/daycycle-camel-trail-boscarne-junction-to-wenford-14-flat-traffic-free-miles/) - Cycling the Camel Trail is something many have done, but most people ignore the Wenford branch of the Camel Trail. This guide covers that stunning segment. - [TransAm, by Paul K W Dunt](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/transam-by-paul-k-w-dunt/) - This is the story of when Paul Dunt and his friend Terry cycled the USA coast to coast. It's an amazing story, of an amazing adventure, along an amazing route. - [Project Rebuild: The result](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/project-rebuild-the-result/) - The 2nd part of the posts on rebuilding my bike, including a slider, with before/after photos. - [Alban Way cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/alban-way/) - Overall rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Alban Way is a six mile long, traffic-free, family-friendly cycle route along a disused railway line, linking St Albans with Hatfield. - [The Wray Valley Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/daycycle-the-wray-valley-trail/) - The Wray Valley Trail is a mostly traffic-free and very stunning cycle route that links Bovey Tracey with Moretonhampstead, and it makes for a gorgeous day out. - [Fairy Trails](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/fairy-trails/) - Fairy Trails are additional, GPS-enabled, mini adventures, aimed at kids 3 to 5 years old, and help make adventures become magical experiences. - [Family-friendly Cycling On The Granite Way](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/granite-way-dartmoor/) - All you need to know about cycling the Granite Way, incl where refreshment stops are, weather forecast, an interactive map and a video of the route, plus more! - [The Strawberry Line cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/strawberry-line/) - The Somerset Circle is a 10-mile, mostly traffic-free cycle route in Somerset. It's easy to reach by train and runs through the grounds of Thatchers Cider. - [The Gloucester Canal Path](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/gloucester-canal-path/) - The Gloucester Canal Path runs for 16 miles between Gloucester and Sharpness. As expected of a canal towpath, it's flat, but not all of it is easy to cycle - [Prestatyn to Rhos-on-Sea Traffic-free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/prestatyn/) - A stunning 15 mile traffic-free cycling route, from Prestatyn to Rhos-on-Sea, with the option of returning by train, along the beautiful orth Wales coast - [Trans Pennine Trail - Altrincham to Warrington](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/trans-pennine-trail-altrincham/) - The Trans Pennine Trail is a coast to coast route. This route guide is for the 7.2 mile traffic-free segment connecting Altrincham to Warrington. - [The Waskerley Way traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/waskerley-way/) - Waskerley Way is a 10 mile traffic-free cycle route along a former railway. It's part of the long distance Coast 2 Coast route, from Whitehaven to Sunderland - [The Wirral Way traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/wirral-way/) - Overall rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - The Wirral Way is a 12-mile, family-friendlymostly traffic-free cycle route on the Wirral, near Liverpool. - [Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/staffordshire-worcestershire-canal/) - Everything you ever wanted to know about cycling the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal! Details on the surface, cafés, toilets, barriers, the forecast & more - [South Tyne Trail cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/south-tyne-trail/) - The South Tyne Trail is a 14-mile, mostly traffic-free gravel route in Northumberland, and takes in some spectacular scenery. - [The Shropshire Union Canal cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/shropshire-union-canal/) - The Shropshire Union Canal, between Nantwich and Ellesmere Port, is within Cheshire and runs through the heart of Chester. It's a stunning but challengingroute - [The Roman Road (Cambridge)](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/roman-road-cambridge/) - The best cycle route guide for the traffic-free Roman Road in Cambridge. It tells you the route surface, refreshments stops, toilets, and even the weather! - [The Swiss Valley Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/swiss-valley-trail/) - The Swiss Valley Trail is a stunning 13 mile traffic-free cycle route that starts on the beach in Llanelli, and it links up with the Millennium Coastal Path - [The Lighthouse Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/lighthouse-trail/) - The Lighthouse Trail is a 13 mile traffic-free cycle route along the far north-west coast of England, and visits 7 lighthouses. This guide has ALL you need! - [Great Central Way - Leicester to Cossington](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/great-central-way-leicester/) - This route guide actually covers more than just the Great Central Way, and includes some towpaths, and other traffic-free paths, to extend the route to 11.7 miles, ending in Cossington. It makes for a gorgeous, almost entirely traffic-free day out. Great Central Way cycle route overall rating: (Colour explanation: blue = good, yellow indicates some - [Tarka Trail - Ilfracombe to Willingcott](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/tarka-trail-ilfracombe/) - This 3.5 mile segment of the Tarka Trail, between Ilfracombe and Willingcott, is very scenic, but uphill almost all the way, from the start. - [Longendale Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/longendale-trail/) - The Longendale Trail is an 8-mile, traffic-free cycling route in the Peak District. Get the forecast, where to park, info on refreshment stops & more here! - [Treasure Hunt: A Cycling Adventure You Can't Plan For](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/treasure-hunt-a-cycling-adventure-you-cant-plan-for/) - Somewhere, on a traffic-free cycling route, a treasure is hidden. It won't appear on any map. Nobody is going to tell you where it is. Can YOU find it? - [Bay to Bay Multi-use path](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/bay-to-bay-multi-use-path/) - The Bay to Bay path runs for 2.3 miles, from Penzance to Marazion, in Cornwall, and offers ample café stops, and stunning views, on a traffic-free route. - [Tarka Trail - Barnstaple to Braunton](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/tarka-trail-barnstaple-to-braunton/) - Spend a beautiful day of serene cycling along this part of the Tarka Trail. between Barnstaple and Braunton and enjoy stunning estuary views on a flat route. - [Family-friendly Cycling on Drake's Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/drakes-trail-2/) - Here's everything you need to know about cycling Drake's Trail, from Plymouth to Tavistock, incl a route map, extra info and even an up-to-date weather forecast - [Secret Plymouth - Plumtown](https://www.willcycle.com/secret-plymouth/secret-plymouth-plumtown/) - Secret Plymouth routes are part of the Secret Cities series of cycle route guides. This one sets off from Coypool Park & Ride, to go explore some roads and lanes in Plympton that you probably never even knew existed. Why is this route called Plumtown? Plympton is considered to have taken it's name from the - [Introducing The Travelling Ouballies](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-travelling-ouballies/) - Travelling Ouballie rides are multi-day cycle tours, and for you to be able to call yourself a Travelling Ouballie, you must join me on such a ride - [Downs Link Traffic-free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/downs-link/) - The Downs Links is 36 miles of almost completely traffic-free cycling bliss. Built primarily on the route of a disused railway, most of the route is very flat, though there are a few paces where you'll be faced with inclines that may be steeper than you'd like. The Downs Link officially starts in Guildford, and - [Destroying that which we love](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/destroying-that-which-we-love/) - So, you love the wild places? I can see why? Who doesn't like travelling to exotic places, to experience it for themselves. Who doesn't want to go explore Machu Picchu, go cycle the Ho Chi Minh Trail, or scale Everest? Not to mention visiting Patagonia, or Lake Baikal in Siberia? After all, it's a beautiful, - [Cycling with kids: How to make rides fun and safe](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/cycling-with-kids-how-to-make-rides-fun-and-safe/) - Kids love cycling and a good bike ride is quality family time, but how do you ensure such rides are both fun AND safe? This article will help! - [Brampton Valley Way traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/brampton-valley-way/) - The Brampton Valley Way is a stunning, traffic-free route along a disused railway, connecting Northampton with Market Harborough. - [Bikes On Trains - UK 2026](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/bikes-on-trains-uk/) - Bikes on trains! All the answers you need for taking your bike on trains in the UK, covering all rail companies, plus tips for saving money, updated for 2026! - [Tissington Trail Family-friendly Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/tissington-trail/) - The Tissington Trail is a stunning, 13-mile, completely traffic-free cycle route in the heart of the Peak District, offering serene, family-friendly cycling. - [Marriott's Way Traffic-free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/marriotts-way/) - Do some traffic-free cycling along Norfolk's Marriott's Way. 26 miles of flat, rural bliss along a route suitable even for younger cyclists - [Taff Trail traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/taff-trail/) - The Taff Trail runs for 56 miles, from Cardiff Bay to Brecon, and offers some spectacular sights along the way. This guide offers you all you need to know! - [Chiseldon to Marlborough Railway Path](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/chiseldon-to-marlborough-railway-path/) - This scenic 7.7 mile path mostly follows the track of the old Midland and Southwestern Junction Railway, linking Chiseldon and Marlborough. It's a shared path, and also a bridleway, so expect to encounter horses at times. Chiseldon to Marlborough Railway Path cycle route overall rating: (Colour explanation: blue = good, yellow indicates some warning, and - [The Beginner's Guide to Designing a Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/the-beginners-guide-to-designing-a-cycle-route/) - How to design a GOOD cycle route, tailored to your specific tastes and needs. The concept is simpler than you realised, provided you use the right tools. - [Chester Millennium Greenway](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/chester-millennium-greenway/) - The Chester Millennium Greenway is a 10.7 mile almost completely traffic-free cycle route, built mainly on a disused railway line. - [Sorry - no routes done here yet](https://www.willcycle.com/routes/west-midlands/sorry-no-routes-done-here-yet/) - I haven't yet managed to publish route guides for this area. Please can you help?Use the Contact form below to tell me about traffic-free routes in this area. Just so you know, currently I prioritise longer routes, and working my way down to shorter routes. Please will you tell me about the route surface? Simply - [Bowes Railway Path Traffic-free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/bowes-railway-path/) - The Bowes Railway Path is a disused railway, just south of Newcastle, offering 10 miles of almost entirely traffic-free cycling along a surprisingly hilly route - [Alton Water cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/alton-water/) - Route rating: ⭐⭐⭐ - Alton Water is a reservoir in Suffolk, and this 7.5 mile, mostly traffic-free cycling route encircles the reservoir, for easy family cycling - [DayCycle - Tavistock & Princetown Loop](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/daycycle-tavistock-princetown-loop/) - As any cyclist living in or near Plymouth can tell you, we're spoilt for routes down here! A firm favourite, amongst fast club riders and more social cyclists, is a Tavistock - Princetown loop. My version of that is detailed below. The starting point will be Coypool, where there is ample free parking available. At - [DayCycle - Seaton and the Rame peninsula](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/daycycle-seaton-and-the-rame-peninsula/) - If you live in Plymouth, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to gorgeous cycling routes. From coastal vistas to high moorland and much more are within reach, so it always surprises me that so many people cycle the same route again and again. To me (well, this is my blog after all) a good - [DayCycle - Grand Western Canal](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/daycycle-grand-western-canal-a-stunning-flat-traffic-free-15-mile-route/) - Grand Western Canal cycle route overall rating: (Colour explanation: blue = good, yellow indicates some warning, and red indicates issues to be aware of)In 1961, a Canberra RAF plane suffered an engine failure, and crashed in the canal. Apparently, quite recently they removed some of the remaining wreckage. Sadly, neither the pilot, nor the navigator - [Planning that cycle touring route](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/planning-that-cycle-touring-route/) - Some people ruin things through over-planning, but can you do that when planning a cycle-touring route? Let's look at the pros & cons of detailed route planning - [Why one map is never enough](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/why-one-map-is-never-enough/) - If you rely on just a single map provider to plan cycling routes through areas you don't know well, you're setting yourself up for trouble. - [DayCycle - Dawlish to Exeter St Davids](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/daycycle-dawlish-to-exeter-st-davids-14-miles-mainly-flat/) - The mostly traffic-free path from Dawlish to Exeter is a stunning cycling route. This route guide tells you all you need to know, incl weather & much more! - [Forth and Clyde Canal Traffic-free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/forth-and-clyde-canal/) - Go cycling the Forth and Clyde Canal, which spans almost the width of Scotland, and is tarred for most of the 35 miles between Dunbarton & Falkirk - [Cambridge Guided Busway](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/cambridge-guided-busway/) - The Cambridge Guided Busway links the Cambridge North train station with St Ives, 12.6 miles away along a traffic-free route that is wide, with a good surface. - [Union Canal Traffic-free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/union-canal/) - The Union Canal offers traffic-free cycling from Falkirk to the centre of Edinburgh. It starts at the Falkirk Wheel, and joins with the Forth and Clyde Canal - [Hornsea Rail Trail Traffic-free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/hornsea-rail-trail/) - Looking at the Hornsea Rail Trail, linking the city centre of Hull with Hornsea, mostly traffic-free. Part of the WillCycle DayCycle route guides. - [Cuckoo Trail Traffic-free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/cuckoo-trail/) - Cuckoo Trail Cycle Route Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ The Cuckoo Trail runs from Heathfield to Polegate, passing through Hellingly, Horam, and Hailsham. The trail got its name from an old tradition of releasing a cuckoo at the Heathfield Fair, and offers 14 miles of traffic-free bliss in East Sussex. This is a disused railway, and so - [Two Tunnels Greenway](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/two-tunnels-greenway/) - The Two Tunnels Greenway forms a link (some b on quiet rural lanes) between the Bristol & Bath Rail Path and Colliers Way. Combined, it's a gorgeous day out - [Cloud Trail Traffic-free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/cloud-trail/) - Traffic-free cycling almost from the middle of Derby, along the Cloud Trail, on a route suitable for beginners and seasoned cyclists alike. - [The Cinder Track Traffic-free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/the-cinder-track/) - The Cinder Track is a 21-mile shared track along the disused railway between Scarborough & Whitby. It's an "adventure" ride, due to the in-places poor surface. - [Bristol and Bath Railway Path](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/bristol-and-bath-railway-path/) - The Bristol & Bath Railway Path is the very first cycle trail Sustrans built and it remains their flagship route. 16 miles from Bristol to Bath, traffic-free. - [Middlewood Way Traffic-Free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/middlewood-way/) - The Middlewood Way is a traffic-free cycling route in Cheshire, linking Macclesfield with Marple. It's a very flat route, through peaceful surroundings. - [Port Talbot to Kidwelly Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/port-talbot-to-kidwelly/) - This route, from Port Talbot to Kidwelly, is mostly traffic-free, and offers some spectacular views. - [Peak Forest & Ashton Canals](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/peak-forest-ashton-canals/) - Stretching for 14 miles from Marple into the centre of Manchester, the Peak Forest Canal and Ashton Canal combine to form a delightful traffic-free route. - [Grand Union Canal - Paddington Branch](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/grand-union-canal-paddington-branch/) - The Paddington branch of the Grand Union Canal offers surprisingly serene cycling, while being in the middle of London. See London like never before! - [Lon Eifion Cycleway](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/lon-eifion-cycleway/) - Lon Eifion Cycleway is a 12.5 mile traffic-free route, from Caernarfon to Bryncir. Offering a range of views, from rich woodland to spectacular mountains - [The Waterrail Way traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/the-water-railway/) - Waterrail Way Cycle Route Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ The Waterrail Way is a traffic-free cycle route of 16 miles, linking Lincoln with Kirkstead. It was built on the course of a disused railway, from which it got the name. The trail is sandwiched between the river Witham and the South Delph drain. The route as shown - [Lincoln to Fledborough cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/lincoln-to-fledborough/) - The disused railway from Lincoln to Fledborough offers almost 12 miles of traffic-free cycling, half of which is on a tarred surface & the remainder on gravel - [Lagan and Lough Cycleway cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/lagan-and-lough-cycle-way/) - The 23 mile long (I added on a bit) Lagan and Lough Cycleway is a (mostly) traffic-free route, running from Jordanstown, though Belfast, to Lisburn. - [Hayling Billy Line traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/hayling-billy-line/) - Hayling Billy Line cycle route overall rating: ⭐⭐⭐ The Hayling Billy Line mostly follows the path of a disused railway, from Havant onto Hayling Island, South East Hampshire. It's quite a short route, at just 5.6 miles, and that includes a short stretch on quiet lanes, to end at the Inn On The Beach. If - [Escape The City](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/escape-the-city/) - Starting near the Thames, and mostly following the Lee valley, this route makes for an excellent day spent escaping the city by bicycle. - [Crab & Winkle Way traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/crab-winkle-way/) - The BEST Crab & Winkle Way route guide, with details about the route surface, the weather, where toilets & cafés are, what barriers you can expect, plus more! - [Cole Green Way traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/cole-green-way/) - The Cole Green Way is a 5 mile route that runs along a disused railway line. The route as shown below starts at Hertford East train station, so you can easily get there by bike. Just be sure to first read my Bikes on Trains post. The route shown below includes some cycling on (usually) - [Consett & Sunderland Railway Path](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/consett-sunderland-railway-path/) - Consett & Sunderland Railway Path Overall Rating: ⭐⭐ The Consett and Sunderland Railway Path, as the name suggests, is a former railway line which was the Stanhope and Tyne railway. It is also the route of NCN 7 which forms part of the long distance Coast 2 Coast route which runs from Whitehaven in Cumbria - [Two Rivers Cycleway](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/two-rivers-cycleway/) - The Two Rivers Cycleway runs for 8 miles between the river Wear, in Sunderland, and the river Tyne, in South Shields. It's a stunning, mostly traffic-free route - [DayCycle - Tarka Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/daycycle-tarka-trail/) - Get all you need for cycling the Tarka Trail with this FREE guide incl a full route video, forecast, interactive map, details about bike hire, toilets & more - [High Peak Trail traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/high-peak-trail/) - Overall rating: ⭐⭐⭐ - The High Peak Trail is a stunning 18 mile traffic-free cycling route & this guide has all the info you may need, incl. weather & bike hire - [Monsal Trail Traffic-free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/monsal-trail/) - The BEST guide to the Monsal Trail, with family-friendly rating, weather forecast, info about parking, toilets, cafés, bike hire & an interactive map! - [Oyster Bay Trail & Northern Seawall](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/oyster-bay-trail-northern-seawall/) - Oyster Bay Trail & Northern Seawall Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐Running for 17 miles between Whitstable and Margate, this route is mostly traffic-free, with some sections along (normally) quiet roads. As a coastal route, you're assured stunning sea views almost throughout. However, there's a price to pay for all that: the route is very exposed and the - [Deeside Way Traffic-free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/deeside-way/) - Deeside Way Cycle Route Overall Rating: ⭐⭐ The Deeside Way runs for 45 miles, mostly traffic-free, from Aberdeen to Ballater, on the edge of the Cairngorm mountains. The route gets its name from the river Dee, and is loosely follows the course of the river for most of the way. It forms part of the - [North Dorset Trailway Traffic-free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/north-dorset-trailway/) - 9 miles of traffic-free cycling along the stunning North Dorset Trailway. Built on a disused railway, the route offers mild gradients. - [Silkin Way Traffic-free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/silkin-way/) - The Silkin Way is a 14 mile long (mostly) traffic-free route in Shropshire, linking Bratton with Coalport, via Telford. There are several on-road segments, along quiet roads, and in Telford also some shared pavements. If you're going to do only half of this route, I'd suggest the southern half, as the northern half has a - [Solar System Greenway](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/solar-system-greenway/) - The Solar System Greenway is a 15 mile, mostly traffic-free route, linking York with Selby. It is possible to get to the start and get back to York by train - [Derwent Walk Cycleway](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/derwent-walk-cycleway/) - The Derwent Walk Cycleway is a 15 mile, mostly traffic-free cycling route, linking Gateshead with Consett. Offering spectacular views, this is a great day out! - [Phoenix Trail traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/phoenix-trail/) - Phoenix Trail Cycle Route Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ The Phoenix Trail is an 8 mile, almost entirely traffic-free cycling route in Oxfordshire, linking Princess Risborough with Thame. With the steepest gradient along the route being less than 2%, we can safely call it very flat (as is often the case with trails built on disused railway - [Thorpe Thewles to Ryhope traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/thorpe-thewles-to-ryhope/) - The family-friendly Thorpe Thewles to Ryhope traffic-free cycle path offers fantastic scenery, along a disused railway, with gentle gradients. - [Par Beach Trail traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/par-beach-trail/) - The Par Beach Trail is a short, traffic-free cycling route from St Blazey right onto Par Beach. It's part of the Cornish Clay Trails routes. - [The Camel Trail traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/the-camel-trail/) - Everything you need to know about cycling the Camel Trail, incl the surface, café stops, toilets, bike hire and even the weather forecast, all in one guide! - [St Austell to Mevagissey traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/st-austell-to-mevagissey/) - Including part of the Pentewan Valley Trail, this mostly traffic-free route takes you from St Austell train station to Mevagissey, over a distance of six miles. - [Whitehaven Rowrah Cycle Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/whitehaven-rowrah-cycle-trail/) - Whitehaven Rowrah Cycle Trail Overall Rating: (Colour explanation: blue = good, yellow indicates some warning, and red indicates issues to be aware of)As shown on the map below, there are some sections that aren't traffic-free in Whitehaven, and at the end. Points of Interest The end of the route is quite close to Ennerdale Lake, - [Bridgwater and Taunton Canal traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/taunton-bridgwater-canal/) - The Taunton & Bridgwater Canal is a 14 mile, mostly traffic-free cycling route. As it's a canal route, it's very flat. This can be a great car-free day out. - [Saltram Loop traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/saltram-loop/) - The Saltram Loop is a surprisingly peaceful, mostly traffic-free route in Plymouth, and is suitable even for novice cyclists and young children - [Princetown Railway traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/princetown-railway/) - This 8 miletraffic-free gravel cycling route follows the course of the old Princetown Railway, from Princetown to Burrator. - [Nun's Cross Trail cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/nuns-cross-trail/) - Overall rating: ⭐⭐ - Nun's Cross Trail links Norsworthy Bridge, Burrator, with Princetown. It is a challenging gravel route, but worth the effort. - [Rutland Water cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/rutland-water/) - Rutland Water cycle route encircles the Rutland Water reservoir. This route guide tells you all you need to know, incl the weather, and interactive map - [Formartine and Buchan Way cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/formartine-and-buchan-way/) - Overall rating: ⭐⭐⭐ - One of the longest continuously traffic-free cycling routes in the UK, overall, the Formartine and Buchan Way is 53 miles long. - [Deerness Valley Railway Path cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/deerness-valley-railway-path/) - The Deerness Valley Railway Path is a disused railway in County Durham, repurposed as a traffic-free cycling and walking trail & this guide has ALL you need. - [Brunel Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/brunel-trail/) - Overall route rating: ⭐⭐⭐ - Brunel Trail is a 9-mile, tarred and mostly traffic-free cycle route, linking Neyland with Haverfordwest, in Pembrokeshire, Wales. - [The Exe Estuary cycle route to Exmouth](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/the-exe-estuary-cycle-route-to-exmouth/) - The Exe Estuary trail to Exmouth is a stunning, mostly traffic-free cycle route that is 13-miles long. The route offers stunning views over the Exe estuary. - [Lanchester Valley Railway Path](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/lanchester-valley-railway-path/) - The Lanchester Valley Railway Path traffic-free cycle route runs for 12 miles between Consett in the west and Broompark, near Durham in the east. - [Whitehaven to Workington & Camerton Railway Path](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/whitehaven-to-workington-camerton-railway-path/) - Offering spectacular sea views, and an all-year tar surface, the Whitehaven to Workington & Camerton Railway Path forms part of the C2C route. - [Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/exmouth-to-budleigh-salterton/) - Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton cycle route overall rating: (Colour explanation: blue = good, yellow indicates some warning, and red indicates issues to be aware of)The surface is almost entirely tarred, but in some places it can be a bit bumpy. Refreshments There are quite a number of places near the start to get refreshments, many - [Forest of Dean Colliers Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/forest-of-dean-colliers-trail/) - Route guide for Forest of Dean Colliers Trail traffic-free cycle route, incl map, weather, details on route surface, toilets & cafés , where to park & more! - [Dart Valley Cycleway](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/dart-valley-cycleway/) - The Dart Valley Cycleway is a stunning, mostly traffic-free cycle route linking Dartington with Ashprington, via Totnes and makes for a wonderful day out - [Slough Arm of the Grand Union Canal](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/slough-arm-of-the-grand-union-canal/) - The Slough arm of the Grand Union Canal offers easy cycling and the Slough and West Drayton train stations either end makes it easy to turn this into a loop - [Thames Path traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/thames-path/) - The Thames Path offers 23 miles of (mostly) traffic-free cycling, from Weybridge to Putney and the start is easily reachable by train. This is a great day out! - [Centurion Way traffic-free cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/centurion-way/) - Centurion Way traffic-free cycle route overall rating: ⭐⭐⭐ Centurion Way is a 6 mile, mostly traffic-free cycling route that starts in Chichester and runs to West Dean. The South Downs National Park Authority started work to extend Centurion Way through Singleton station, and on towards the South Downs Way. The first stage of that work - [Manifold Way Traffic-free Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/manifold-way/) - Manifold Way is a stunning, mostly traffic-free cycle route of 8.5 miles, with the added bonus of having a stunning cave thrown in for good measure! - [DayCycle - A Redlake adventure](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/daycycle-a-redlake-adventure/) - 20 miles there and back, mostly gravel This route incorporates a significant amount of gravel riding. Not quite extreme off-road, but certainly not easy riding all the way. Gravel riding, especially when carrying luggage on the bike, is considerably slower than riding on tar, and although the Redlake route isn't particularly long, it's equally suited - [Lanterne Rouge Ride](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/lanterne-rouge-ride/) - A Lanterne Rouge Ride is a deliberately slow ride, with ample stops to admire the view, or perhaps smell a flower blooming in the hedgerow. - [The Breakfast Club](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-breakfast-club/) - The Breakfast Club isn't just an 80s movie. It's also a series of bike rides, to have breakfast at some favourite café. Which café will YOU cycle to? - [A Time Of Birds, by Helen Moat](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/a-time-of-birds-by-helen-moat/) - A beautifully-written telling of the story of a mother and child who cycled across Europe, unsupported, and finding freedom from the past along the way. - [The Great North Road, by Steve Silk](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/the-great-north-road-by-steve-silk/) - I recently reviewed another cycle touring book by Steve Silk, and that reminded me I never got round to doing a review for The Great North Road, despite having purchased my copy quite a while ago. Harper Silk is a great fan of the writings of Charles G Harper, who in 1903 published a book - [Surviving the storm](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/surviving-the-storm/) - Power outages during severe winter storms are a real and increasing risk, but if you go camping, you already have much of what's needed to prepare yourself. - [Bigger, better, faster, MORE](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/bigger-better-faster-more/) - Humans challenging themselves to do their best is 1 thing, but when their injuries become acceptable collateral damage to a PR machine, we need to ask questions - [Go West, by Steve Silk](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/go-west-by-steve-silk/) - After reading of a bike ride to Milford Haven, over 100 years ago, Steve Silk set off to replicate that adventure, and this excellent book tells that story. - [Far Sweeter Than Honey - William Spencer](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/far-sweeter-than-honey-william-spencer/) - William Spencer, and his mate Brian, were young men when they decided to set off from 1970s England, and cycle to India. Inspired by what he read about Auroville, in India, Spencer developed a growing interest in meditation (though it wasn't something he could actually do). Newbies The pair weren't very experienced cycle tourers, but - [Ouch! Saddle-sores - the unmentioned curse of cycling](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/ouch-saddle-sores-the-unmentioned-curse-of-cycling/) - If you've ever suffered the horrors of saddle sores, you'd be delighted to know they can be avoided! Yes, even when cycle touring. - [An act of rebellion](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/an-act-of-rebellion/) - You can't accuse me of not nailing my colours to the mast. I loudly and proudly oppose racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, xenophobia, genocide and more. Climate change I understand the severity of the threat climate breakdown poses, and that we're rushing headlong into making this planet uninhabitable for humans. And of course I'm continuously working - [Surrender](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/surrender/) - The word surrender usually conjures up negative connotation, often centred around war, or battle. Surrender means giving up, and that's usually see as a bad thing. But there is one kind of surrender that can change your cycling. Rain The UK is exquisitely beautiful and green. The reason behind all that lush greenery, and many - [The Art of the Five-Minute Ride](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-art-of-the-five-minute-ride/) - The world tells us that journeys need to be big to matter. That the real adventures start where maps start to fade, where days stretch long, and where you lose sight of home. But the humble five-minute ride - the trip to the shop, the detour to the post box, the spin around the block - [All you need to know about cycling on Dartmoor](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/all-you-need-to-know-about-cycling-on-dartmoor/) - Dartmoor is England's last remaining wilderness, and while rugged and hardy, the landscape is also far more fragile than what most people may realise. - [On the bright side](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/on-the-bright-side/) - Bike lights have become a weapons race, with ever-brighter lights being used. But have YOU considered the implications of riding with such bright lights? - [GoCycle Expert Guide - Devon Coast To Coast](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/gocycle-devon-coast-to-coast/) - Simply the most detailed guide for the Devon Coast To Coast cycle route (NCN 27). This is more than just a route guide - it's like having a tour leader along - [GoCycle Expert Guide - Somerset Circle](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/gocycle-somerset-circle/) - Go exploring along the gorgeous Somerset Circle! The UK has many disused railways, and many of these have been converted into shared paths. In fact, Sustrans' very first path was the Bristol And Bath Rail Path, which follows the course of an old, disused railway, and forms part of the Somerset Circle. The Camel Trail in - [GoCycle Guide - Kennet and Avon Canal cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/gocycle-kennet-and-avon-canal/) - The Kennet and Avon Canal cycle route is a wonderful adventure. This detailed guide tells about the route, and the landscape through which you will be cycling - [Four Ferries & Freedom](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/four-ferries-freedom-2/) - Remember all those holidays you had in Cornwall? Remember how stunning the county is? There's a reason why around five million people flock to Cornwall each year! Green rolling hills, quaint seaside villages and stunning beaches are just some of the many attractions Cornwall offers. Your Cornish adventure This year, I'd like you to experience - [Brighton Bimble - finally done!](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/brighton-bimble-finally-done/) - So, you're based in, or near London, and you're looking for a great, ready-made, two or three day cycling adventure? Oh, then I have really good news for you! - [Coospo CS600 smart cycling computer](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/coospo-cs600-smart-cycling-computer/) - The CS600 is the flagship bicycle computer from Chinese manufacturer Coospo. It's not perfect, but packs a mighty punch for its price range, & you might love it - [How to get fit for summer, before summer](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/how-to-get-fit-for-summer-before-summer/) - Many cyclists either stop riding, or greatly reduce their riding during winter. Of course, that's perfectly understandable. After all, it takes a great deal of motivation to step outside and get on your bike when it's sleeting outside! However, winter miles are summer smiles, and those who ride through winter are usually rewarded with a - [The stories hidden in maps](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-stories-hidden-in-maps/) - When you talk to someone about maps, they usually think of paper maps. Paper maps are great (though they have limitations, which we'll look at later). Of course, most maps are actually digital these days, and for valid reasons. What stories? When a map has any way - be that shading, or contour lines - - [Baguettes and bicycles - Steven Herrick](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/baguettes-and-bicycles-steven-herrick/) - This book tells of when Herrick crossed France, from west to east, by bicycle, and managed to bag a few cols along the way, including Ventoux and Galibier. - [Book review - Wild Camping the Wild Atlantic Way](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/book-review-wild-camping-the-wild-atlantic-way/) - An adventurous tale of cycle touring Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. This book is essential reading if you're thinking of cycle touring the Wild Atlantic Way. - [Secret Torbay - Hills and Sea](https://www.willcycle.com/secret-cities/secret-torbay-hills-and-sea/) - This Secret Cities route runs through Torbay, and includes several delightful surprises. You can even download the GPX, and watch the route video from here! - [What does "Leave No Trace really mean?](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/what-does-leave-no-trace-really-mean/) - Throughout this site, you will find regular references to Leave No Trace, but what does it actually mean? Is it simply about picking up your litter, or is there more to it? Actions have consequences In South Africa, there's an area known as Namaqualand. It's barren desert most of the time, but when it does - [The Road Headed West - Leon McCarron](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-road-headed-west-leon-mccarron/) - During the economic crash of 2008, Leon McCarron was in a predicament: jobs were few and far between, and after a 6 month stint of working in New York city, he'd had enough. What he needed was an adventure, and what better adventure than to cycle across the USA? This book tells the story of - [But travel is for the rich...](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/but-travel-is-for-the-rich/) - Many people think that travel and adventure is something only rich people can afford. For those people, I have news, and it's all good! - [Cycling Home From Siberia - Rob Lilwall](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/cycling-home-from-siberia-rob-lilwall/) - Rob Lilwall cycled home from Siberia, but took the extra long way. 30 000 miles, over 3 years, through some amazing (and challenging) terrain. - [A cycle tourer’s guide to stargazing in the UK](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/a-cycle-tourers-guide-to-stargazing-in-the-uk/) - For cycle tourers, stargazing isn’t just a bonus - it’s part of the adventure. The UK offers surprisingly good opportunities to connect with the cosmos. - [SheCycles - Julie Coldwell](https://www.willcycle.com/women/shecycles-julie-coldwell/) - This SheCycles post introduces Julie Coldwell. Julie is a long-distance cycle tourer and blogger (and will have a book out about some of her adventures) - [Cycling Horoscopes: Zodiac on Two Wheels](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/cycling-horoscopes-zodiac-on-two-wheels/) - The Cyclist's Zodiac you never knew you needed, until now. And now you've seen it, you cannot help but re-read yours. And that of everyone you know! - [A Dartmoor Gravel Adventure](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/a-dartmoor-gravel-adventure/) - I had a fair few things go wrong on my cycle camping, overnight adventure along the Princetown Railway and Nun's Cross routes, but it was also oh so right! - [The science of hydration: a cyclist’s guide](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-science-of-hydration-a-cyclists-guide/) - Everyone and their dog will tell you how you should or shouldn't hydrate during a long bike ride. But are they right? What does the science say? - [Colliers Way full cycle route guide](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/colliers-way/) - Colliers Way is a (mostly) traffic-free cycle route in Somerset, linking Frome with Radstock. Entirely tarred, it's rideable all year round on any kind of bike. - [Llama Drama, by Anna McNuff](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/llama-drama-by-anna-mcnuff/) - Anna McNuff is a British adventurer, perhaps best known for her barefoot, long-distance running. She had this idea of using a scooter (the type that you push with one foot) to travel down the length of South America. To accompany her, McNuff enlisted a friend of hers, Faye. When initial testing (in the UK) showed - [Wild camping & cycle camping in the UK](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-camping-in-the-uk/) - All you need to know about how to wild camp successfully in the UK, with links giving you information about the legal status under the new PCSC Bill - [Up where we belong...](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/up-where-we-belong/) - Stop hating hills, and change your mindset, so you can appreciate that hills can be a cyclist's best friend. These tips will help you. - [Kit Review: DJI Neo drone](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/kit-review-dji-neo-drone/) - For such a tiny package, the DJI Neo drone packs a mighty punch. It isn't the perfect drone for everyone, but may well be perfect for you. Read on to see why. - [The Tricky Bit - Peter Charlesworth](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-tricky-bit-peter-charlesworth/) - A father and son team up to cycle through some of the most challenging parts of the world - what could possibly go wrong? Well, quite a bit, actually! - [Pick your sites with care](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/pick-your-sites-with-care/) - One of the fundamental basics of an enjoyable wild camping trip is the ability to pick the right spots to camp, and this post will greatly help with that. - [Burn, baby burn](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/burn-baby-burn/) - Cycling during a heat wave brings with it several risks, and people not accustomed to hot weather may easily miss danger signals. Read this post for clarity - [Back to basics - how to wild camp in the UK](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/back-to-basics-how-to-wild-camp-in-the-uk/) - Wild camping in the UK is easier than you think, provided you do it right. This post tells you about the legality, and rules for wild camping in the UK - [eBike touring](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/ebike-touring/) - Let's dispel some myths around ebikes and look at why you should go cycle touring with your ebike. Answers from battery range worries to other questions! - [Project Rebuild - the beginning](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/project-rebuild-the-beginning/) - Project Rebuild: rebuilding my ageing 2016 Genesis CdA 20 into almost a new bike. Follow along the challenges of this project, starting with the strip-down. - [Roads, cars, road danger, and congestion](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/roads-cars-road-danger-and-congestion/) - Do you think cycle lanes cause congestion and that adding more road lanes will solve congestion? If so, you're entirely wrong, and this explains why. - [But you might die...](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/but-you-might-die/) - Have you ever NOT gone cycle touring because you thought, or were told that it's too dangerous? Let's objectively look at the risks. - [7 signs that you should go cycle touring](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/7-signs-that-you-should-go-cycle-touring/) - Not sure if cycle touring is for you? These 7 give-away signs will very quickly reveal whether or not it's meant for you, so have a look right away! - [Fat bloke on a bike, by Paul J Parsons](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/fat-bloke-on-a-bike-by-paul-j-parsons/) - This book tells the tale of when Paul J Parsons, who is an overweight cyclist, who went cycle touring on his road bike. - [Kit Review: Tyre Glider](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/kit-review-tyre-glider/) - Tyre Glider is a totally re-invented tyre ever, and when it comes to putting a tyre back on the wheel, is totally different to anything else you may have used - [Kit Review: uleFone Armor 25T Pro](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/kit-review-ulefone-armor-25t-pro/) - In this review of the uleFone Armor 25T Pro, I'll show you whyit's PERFECT to cycle touring, camping and other similar adventures. - [Gears for Queers](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/gears-for-queers/) - When Abi and Lili set off to cycle the Rhine to Switzerland, then cycle to Spain, they'd never done any cycle touring before. What followed is inspiring. - [No Normal Coffee](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/no-normal-coffee/) - If you're looking for decent coffee on an ultralight camping trip, I have good news for you, but there are some caveats you need to be aware of. - [The Age Of Wonder](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-age-of-wonder/) - The Age Of Wonder doesn't belong to an era where dapper Victorian explorers "discovered" new (to them) parts of the world. The Age Of Wonder is NOW! Go explore! - [Kennet & Avon Canal - Traveling Ouballies ride](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/kennet-and-avon-canal-a-traveling-ouballies-ride/) - What happens when a bunch of middle-aged men go cycling the Kennet and Avon Canal? Many laughs, and a great adventure, is what! And adventure YOU can do, too! - [The rules of being a tourist](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-rules-of-being-a-tourist/) - Did you know there are rules for being a good tourist? No? Well, there are, and knowing these rules will enrich your life, and make for better adventures! - [Cycling for a cause: Fundraising on 2 wheels](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/cycling-for-a-cause-fundraising-on-2-wheels/) - If you're asking people for a donation so you can go cycling the Inca Trail in Peru "for charity", expect to be disappointed. There are better ways to fundraise - [So you want to cycle the Grand Union Canal?](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/so-you-want-to-cycle-the-grand-union-canal/) - So, you want to cycle the Grand Union Canal? I did, and here are the lessons I learned. It's not an easy ride, but it is a great adventure! - [Top Ten UK Bike Rides](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/top-ten-uk-bike-rides/) - Top Ten multi-day bike rides in the UK. Some of these rides can be done over a weekend, others are more serious challenges. Which one is your favourite? - [Just One Day Less](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/just-one-day-less/) - What if I told you of a simple way you can cut your transport costs by up to 14%, while saving time and possibly getting healthier too? It's all true so read on - [No plan(et) B](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/no-plan-et-b/) - Some simple steps YOU can take to help ensure this planet remains habitable in our lifetimes, and for future generations. - [Reivers Route - UK Coast To Coast Routes](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/reivers-route-uk-coast-to-coast-routes/) - 164 miles - Workington to Tynemouth The Reivers Route gets it's name from the gangs of marauders that used to roam the border between England and Scotland for several centuries. At 164 miles, it's not a short route. More importantly, it passes through some of the most isolated and sparsely-populated parts of England. In simple - [CityCycle](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/citycycle/) - CityCycle routes will be detailed, leisure-cycling, sight-seeing routes for various UK cities, but YOUR help is needed to start building these route guides - [Africa Solo, by Mark Beaumont](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/africa-solo-by-mark-beaumont/) - Africa Solo tells the story of Mark Beaumont's record-setting ride, down the continent of Africa. He rode 6 762 miles, to complete the race (and a race it was) in 41 days, 10 hours and 22 minutes. Beaumont set the round-the-world cycling record in 2008, and set a new round-the-world record again, in 2017. That - [Cycling campaigning starter](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/cycling-campaigning-starter/) - As populism grows, and Big Oil finances campaigns to protect their profits, at all our expense, there ARE things YOU can do. Because we deserve a better world. - [Love, death and bicycles](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/love-death-and-bicycles/) - Your driving around cyclists might be why someone else doesn't cycle, even though they want to. Ensure that you give cyclists 1.5 metres space when overtaking - [Wild camping spots in England](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/wild-camping-spots-in-england/) - Looking for the top wild camping spots in England, are you? Somewhere secret, off the beaten path, but also stunning? Oh, I can assure you there are plenty of those about. But let's not jump the gun here, shall we? The basics of wild camping in England Let's start by clarifying some things. First off, - [The Jennride](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-jennride/) - This is a guest post, by Pete Aylward, about when he cycled the 2025 Winter #JennRide. The JennRide is a charity bikepacking event held in memory of Jenn Hill. - [Reading to Reading, by Tim Millikin](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/reading-to-reading-by-tim-millikin/) - Reading To Reading tell the story of Tim Millikin's 46 500 km cycling adventure, over 3 years, on a budget of just £6 per day. - [Pel Scopes](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/pel-scopes/) - While cycling along the Granite Way, my daughter & I were lucky enough to have met Pel Scopes, an incredible charity fundraiser, and his shopping trolley, Bruce - [The Life Cycle, by Kate Rawles](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-life-cycle-by-kate-rawles/) - Kate Rawles cycled 8000+ miles along the length of South America, often braving extreme conditions, to tell the story of biodiversity loss along the continent - [Best-value helmet cam](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/best-value-helmet-cam/) - Grab a bargain! A 4K, waterproof helmet cam, with anti-shaking, WiFi connectivity and around 2.5 hours of battery, for much cheaper than anywhere else! - [Book review - Eat, Sleep, Cycle, by Anna Hughes](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/book-review-eat-sleep-cycle-by-anna-hughes/) - Anna Hughes' debut book, Eat Sleep Cycle. The book tells the story of when Hughes cycled around the coast of the UK and gives great insight into what it takes. - [My colours](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/my-colours/) - This post is NOT about cycling, but it underpins EVERYTHING on WillCycle. Sometimes the right thing to do is to be diplomatic. Sometimes, the right thing to do is to look the other way. Right now is NOT one of those times. Right now, it's time for me to nail my colours to the mast. - [18 Castles - an introduction](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/18-castles-an-introduction/) - Showcasing some of the very best scenery and superb cycling Devon has to offer, this 163 mile route will delight history and castle lovers. Th - [New year - new bike](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/new-year-new-bike/) - For 2025, I deserve a new bicycle, but I also don't want to replace my current bike. That leaves just 1 option: a full strip-down and rebuild of my bicycle! - [Cycling the South West Coast Path](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/cycling-the-south-west-coast-path/) - You ready for a monster adventure? One that doesn't require you to travel to exotic foreign locations? And has oodles of sights to see? You're in luck, my friend! Cycling the South West Coast Path is just what you're looking for! Isn't it a footpath? Quite right. The stunning South West Coast Path is, for - [Does Your Wild Camping Pass The Test? 7 Things You Can Improve On Today](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/does-your-wild-camping-pass-the-test-7-things-you-can-improve-on-today/) - Does YOUR wild camping pass the test? Or do you make any of these 7 common mistakes? This is essential reading for everyone who goes wild camping in the UK - [#RubbishRide](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/rubbishride/) - Ever been on a #RubbishRide? Not a ride that was rubbish - a ride to pick up rubbish from the side of some trails. Use this handy guide to organise your own! - [Back to Basics - Cycle Helmets](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/back-to-basics-helmets/) - A look at the realities of cycle helmets - what they are designed to protect against and explicitly NOT designed to protect against. You'll be surprised. - [Riding Out, by Simon Parker](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/riding-out-by-simon-parker/) - Just before the 1st lockdown in the UK, Simon Parker set off by bicycle from Muckle Flugga, Shetland, heading for Land's End, then cycled back to Shetland later - [Kit Review: Chilli-Tech Mk II Bullet Cam](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/kit-review-chilli-tech-mk-ii-helmetcam/) - This is a kit review of the new Chilli-Tech Mk II Bullet helmet camera. It's a cheap camera, but there are some gotchas you need to be aware of first. - [Essential winter maintenance for bicycles](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/essential-winter-maintenance-for-bicycles/) - Top tips to help make your winter cycling as trouble-free as you can. Most of these are simple tips, saving you time, effort and money. Most people can do these - [Back to basics - my winter camping gear](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/back-to-basics-my-winter-camping-gear/) - Winter camping in the UK is radically different to summer camping, and not only because of the temperature difference. In the UK, it rains during winter. That means not only cycling, and quite likely pitching your tent in the rain (or sleet) but sleeping on soggy ground. Through trial and error, I fine-tuned my winter - [AI can't ride a bicycle](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/ai-cant-ride-a-bicycle/) - At the dawn of the age of AI, WillCycle will remain proudly human, proudly #AIfree. There are many reasons behind this, all explained in this post. - [Finding the wild](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/finding-the-wild/) - You weren't born to be stuck in traffic. You evolved our MANY 1000s of years. Underneath a thin layer of civilisation is the real you. Embrace your inner wild! - [Round The World On A wheel](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/round-the-world-on-a-wheel/) - In 1896, John Foster Fraser and two friends set off to cycle around the world. This book tells that story, and gives a glimpse into a totally different time. - [Avoiding freezing](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/avoiding-freezing/) - Now autumn's here (in the northern hemisphere, anyway) it's not long before the really cold weather will be here. Obviously, cycling in cold weather is significantly different. For starters, you need a strategy for dealing with the cold. You may need to alter your routes, to avoid the risk of black ice. As for dealing - [Back To Basics - How to pack your panniers](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/back-to-basics-how-to-pack-your-panniers/) - A lesson in how to pack bicycle panniers? Yes, cos cycle touring panniers have a few gotchas, so read these tips to save yourself some drama later on! - [Traffic-free Cycling Route Guide Ratings Explained](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/traffic-free-cycling-route-guide-ratings-explained/) - Star-rated traffic-free cycle routes As you may have noticed, I started grading the route guides I publish, using a star grading system. This grading system is to give an indication of family-friendliness of a route, which is a grading that will also help new adult cyclists, as well as less confident adult cyclists. Some routes - [12 months - 12 commutes](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/12-months-12-commutes/) - Here's a very simple challenge: cycle commute 12 times, in 12 months - 1 commute per month. More commutes per month are encouraged, but only the 1st one counts. - [But baby it's cold outside...](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/but-baby-its-cold-outside/) - Cold can be more than uncomfortable - it can be life threatening. Let's look at strategies for staying warm when cycle touring or cycle camping in cold weather. - [Somerset Circle - revamped and updated!](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/somerset-circle-revamped-and-updated/) - My Somerset Circle route has been revised and updated and is now even better! This stunning route offers great variety of terrain, through a stunning landscape - [Cycling sustainability](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/cycling-sustainability/) - Heard of cycling formula to determine the optimal number of bikes to have, N+1, where N is the number of bikes you currently own? It's a lie, and here's why - [8 biggest Op Snap report mistakes](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/8-biggest-op-snap-report-mistakes/) - Op Snap is the system available in England and Wales, where cyclists can report bad driving by uploading video from their helmet cam. However, not all Op Snap reports are equal - do read this post about making a better Op Snap report, as well as this post about improving it even further. 1. Not - [Making a good Op Snap report](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/making-a-good-op-snap-report/) - A useful guide to help YOU write better reports for Op Snap, when making reports about bad driving you experienced (and have on video) while out cycling - [The Book of Trespass](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/the-book-of-trespass/) - In this review, Nick Hayes' The Book Of Trespass is called the most important book in the UK. There are many reasons why that's true and you simply must read it - [Improving your chances of a successful Op Snap report](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/improving-your-chances-of-a-successful-op-snap-report/) - It's here! A tool to help you improve your Op Snap reports, and help overcome the lack of experience the Op Snap reviewers may have in assessing videos. - [One Man And His Bike - Mike Carter](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/one-man-and-his-bike-mike-carter/) - When Mike Carter was cycling to work in London, following the bank of the Thames, he had a thought. What if he simply kept going, keeping the water to his right? He'd end up cycling to the coast, then follow the coast all around Britain, to eventually end up back in London. From that simple - [Summer holidays adventures with kids](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/summer-holidays-adventures-with-kids/) - No idea what to do with kids over the summer holidays? Don't want to spend a fortune, but still want to offer them a great adventure? I've great news for you! - [Clarks CMD-24 cable disk brakes](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/clarks-cmd-24-cable-disk-brakes/) - Are Clarks CMD-24 mechanical disk brakes worth fitting? They're cheap to buy, and offer decent braking, but there's a catch you really should know about. - [Cycle touring FAQs](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/cycle-touring-faqs/) - If you're thinking of going cycle touring (and you really should go) it's normal to have many questions. This post will answer at least a number of those - [Life Cycles - Julian Sayarer](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/life-cycles-julian-sayarer/) - A cycle courier set out to break the record for cycling around the world. Why? Because the previous record holder had corporate sponsorship. This is his story. - [The Strawberry Line debacle](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-strawberry-line-debacle/) - The Strawberry Line, in Somerset, can be a superb active travel asset, but isn't that at the moment. In fact, it's seemingly deliberately quite discriminatory. - [A Bike Ride, by Anne Mustoe](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/a-bike-ride-by-anne-mustoe/) - What happens when an unfit, overweight head teacher of a posh all-girls school quits her job to cycle around the world? An incredible adventure happens! - [How to waterproof anything](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/how-to-waterproof-anything/) - Ever wanted to waterproof a favourite coat, that may no longer be waterproof, or having a waterproof denim jacket? Learn how to waterproof almost anything! - [The WillCam mount options](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-willcam-mount-options/) - Just a post detailing on how to use the different camera mounts that ship with every WillCam action camera. WillCam is probably the best value 4K camera. - [Potholes and Pavements, by Laura Laker](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/potholes-and-pavements-by-laura-laker/) - Laura Laker's bookPotholes And Pavements: A Bumpy Ride On Britain's National Cycle Network is, without any doubts, the most important cycling book in the UK. - [A 1986-style Devon Coast To Coast](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/a-1986-style-devon-coast-to-coast/) - 1986 was a great year - Duran Duran were a supergroup, and it was my last year of school, in South Africa. In 1986, computers existed - I owned a Sinclair ZX Spectrum - but it was largely the pre-digital era. Mobile phones weren't a thing, so you couldn't phone people as such, only places, - [Le Grand Tour - by Andrew P Sykes](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/le-grand-tour-by-andrew-p-sykes/) - My book review of Andrew P Sykes' latest cycle touring book, Le Grand Tour ...on a bike called Wanda. TL:DR version - you're in for a treat - [#RideForGaza](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/rideforgaza/) - For evil to flourish, all that is needed is for good people to do nothing. The genocide in Gaza is pure evil. Don't stand by in silence. Go on a #RideForGaza - [And they called it puppy love](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/and-they-called-it-puppy-love/) - Going cycle camping, and wild camping at that, with a young puppy changes things a lot. What advice do you have (or need) about doing just that? - [Why do you ride?](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/why-do-you-ride/) - Cycling's a broad church, and a highly personal thing. I disagree with gatekeeping, and believe there's no wrong way to enjoy cycling. Tell me, why do YOU ride? - [Cycle tour destroyer](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/cycle-tour-destroyer/) - If like me, you spend considerable time planning and preparing for a cycle tour, then you'll be excited when the day comes to go cycle touring. Finally, a chance to escape the everyday humdrum of life, and explore the world in the best way possible: on two wheels, and under your own efforts. Because you're - [Upgrade is the new N+1](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/upgrade-is-the-new-n1/) - N=1 is so out of date! Upgrade is the new N+1, and this post will tell you why it's better for you, for your wallet, for your LBS and for the planet! - [UPDATED: Kit review - iGPSport BSC200 GPS unit](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/kit-review-igpsport-bsc200-gps-unit/) - In a slight revisit of my digital navigation strategy, I bought a new GPS cycling computer: an iGPSport BSC200. Here's the warts and all review. - [Peace of mind when solo cycle touring](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/peace-of-mind-when-solo-cycle-touring/) - A 70 year old reader of my newsletter, The Spirit Of Adventure (you are signed up, aren't you?) emailed me, explaining health issues he overcame, and asked the following: "So the question I have is, while venturing out alone, whether cycle camping or touring, what would your top ten tips be for planning a trip - [Just be](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/just-be/) - In a world that's forever expecting you to be different, be better, and be more, it becomes increasingly important to take time out and just be. - [Top ten worst things about cycle touring](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/top-ten-worst-things-about-cycle-touring/) - Cycle touring is a wonderful way to head off on an adventure, but it's not always moonshine and roses. Here's the top ten worst things about cycle touring - [10 Cycle touring mistakes](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/10-cycle-touring-mistakes/) - Cycle touring is great, but here are 10 cycle touring mistakes that are very easy to make, but also easy to avoid. How many of these do YOU make? - [Kit review - Time ATAC XC4 pedals](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/kit-review-time-atac-xc4-pedals/) - Time ATAC XC4 aren't your normal bicycle pedals. In a world dominated by Shimano, Time ATAC XC4 pedals offers several advantages - read on to find out why! - [Cycle Touring - A Guide For Beginners](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/the-beginners-guide-to-cycle-touring/) - Cycle touring is wonderful, but can seem daunting to a beginner. This Beginner's Guide To Cycle Touring has the answers you're looking for, in plain language - [Keeping your cool](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/keeping-your-cool/) - Heat exhaustion & heat stroke can be lethal, so here are some coping strategies (incl a secret tip for cooling down you've not heard from anyone else before!) - [The art of gentle adventure](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-art-of-gentle-adventure/) - You don't have to cycle around the world to have an adventure. Shorter cycle tours in the UK can be every bit as fulfilling. These gentle adventures are great! - [Four Ferries & Freedom](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/four-ferries-freedom/) - The story of when I did a test ride of this route, from Penzance to Plymouth. It's a challenging, but stunning & rewarding ride that you will absolutely love! - [Book review - Quondam - Travels In A Once World, by John Devoy](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/book-review-quondam-travels-in-a-once-world-by-john-devoy/) - Quondam, by John Devoy is an extraordinary tale of an incredible adventure, written by a very talented writer. It tells the story of Devoy's 33 000 km bike ride - [C2C - UK Coast to Coast Routes](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/c2c-uk-coast-to-coast-routes/) - The C2C is the UK's most popular long-distance cycle route, stretching for 137 miles, from the Irish Sea to the North Sea, crossing the Pennines. - [Wet-weather camping](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/wet-weather-camping/) - How do you deal with having to camp in the rain, or worse, multiple days of rain? Here are some rock-solid strategies for helping you enjoy wet-weather camping - [When reality hits](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/when-reality-hits/) - Going on an adventure is great, but we all have a duty not only to ourselves, but also to reduce the likelihood of Search & Rescue teams having to save us. - [Truth matters](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/truth-matters/) - UK police love to hide behind GDPR as an excuse, or simply by saying cyclists who reported close passes weren't victims of crime, but does that check out? - [Kit Review - West Biking Panniers](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/kit-review-west-biking-panniers/) - If you're looking for some decent panniers, at a very good price, you need to read this review of the West Biking 25 litre panniers! - [This Road I Ride - Juliana Buhring](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/this-road-i-ride-juliana-buhring/) - This Road I Ride tells the story of Juliana Buhring's record-breaking round-the-world bike ride, but it's so much more than simply a book about a bike ride. - [Free](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/free/) - Few people get to experience what it is really like to be free. Free from responsibilities and being a slave to a clock. Cycle touring offers you that freedom! - [Next adventures](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/next-adventures/) - We can't all be on adventures all the time. Even the world's most persistent cycle tourer, Heinz Stücke, eventually settled down. However, what we can do is start planning our next adventures! Decide on a timescale Time is the greatest limiter. You can always get more money, but you can never get more time. Your - [WeCycle - Guided cycle camping](https://www.willcycle.com/wecycle/wecycle-guided-cycle-camping/) - Get out of your comfort zone, challenge yourself & grow as a result. Join me on a guided cycling wild camping experience on beautiful Dartmoor! You deserve this - [Kit review: Elite Cycling Project Malmo winter gloves](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/kit-review-elite-cycling-project-malmo-winter-gloves/) - Suffering frozen fingers isn't fun, & when cold weather hits you need decent winter gloves. Read how good the Elite Cycling Project Malmo winter gloves are. - [#NoMoreIn24 - a new challenge](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/nomorein24-a-new-challenge/) - #NoMoreIn24 is a cycling challenge like no other: you're challenged to not buy ANY cycling-related kit during '24, unless to replace broken parts or kit. - [Top Camping tips](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/top-camping-tips/) - Going on our 1st camping trip? How exciting! These tips will help ensure your trip will be an enjoyable, successful and memorable experience! - [Stealth camping in the UK](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/stealth-camping-in-the-uk/) - Stealth camping is wild camping done in such a way that nobody knows you're there. Here are some great tips to help you perfect your stealth camping in the UK. - [Book review - How To Cycle Canada The Wrong Way](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/book-review-how-to-cycle-canada-the-wrong-way/) - A review of Lorraine Lambert's book, How To Cycle Canada The Wrong Way. It'll have you green with envy, shocked at some mistakes she made and loving every page - [Kit Review - Podsac Fork-mounted drybags](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/product-review-podsac-fork-mounted-drybags/) - Good reputation Podsac has built a well-deserved reputation for great kit. Indeed, while cycling the Grand Union Canal, my mate Dom found that Podsacks are so waterproof that they made his bicycle float! As a result, I didn't have any reservations when I ordered these from Planet-X. For clarity, I bought these at full price, - [Digital navigation revisited](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/digital-navigation-revisited/) - There are several options for digital navigation when on a cycle tour. Here's my approach, which is somewhat different to that of most others. - [Kit Review - Profile Design aero bars & risers](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/kit-review-profile-design-aero-bars-risers/) - An honest review of the Profile Designs Legacy II clip-on aero bars. I got these for my touring bike, to allow me a way to get weight off my wrists and hands. - [Use your noodle](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/use-your-noodle/) - Sustained aerobix exercise, which cycling is, is good for your muscles, your cardio-vascular system, your mental health, but also your brain! - [Kit Review - Valehowl sleeping mat](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/kit-review-valehowl-sleeping-mat/) - Kit review of the Valehowl inflatable sleeping mat. In this price range, you'd be hard-pressed to find anything better, but it's not perfect. - [The impact of climate change on cycle touring](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/the-impact-of-climate-change-on-cycle-touring/) - What impact will climate change have on cycle touring, and what can YOU do to reduce your impact on climate change when you go cycle touring? - [Earth, wind, fire and ice](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/earth-wind-fire-and-ice/) - Cycling onto Dartmoor to go wild-camping in freezing cold weather. What can possibly go wrong? Well, besides the gas for my stove being too cold to burn! - [Adventure Journal](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/adventure-journal/) - The WillCycle Adventure Journal I'm excited to announce the WillCycle Adventure Journal. What's an Adventure Journal, you ask? It's a small book that you are meant to take with you on adventures, to make notes in. Some of my best thinking's been done on the bike, and I expect that may be true for you, - [Scrummy recipes for delicious camping meals](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/scrummy-recipes-for-delicious-camping-meals/) - Who said you can't eat yummy food while camping? This list of 20 delicious recipes will give you plenty options for preparing quick and delicious camping meals - [Kit Review - Micronew 3 x 9 shifters](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/kit-review-micronew-3-x-9-shifters/) - A product review of a pair of Micronew 3 x 9 shifters for dropped bars. These shifters retail for just over a third of the price of comparable Shimano shifters - [24 must-cycle routes for 2024!](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/24-must-cycle-routes-for-2024/) - Here's a new cycling challenge for you! How many of these 24 stunning cycle routes can you go ride during 2024? Or in any 12-month period, for that matter! - [Online scratch map](https://www.willcycle.com/mapping/online-scratch-map/) - You've seen those scratch maps you can get, haven't you? They allow you to scratch off the foil covering of places you've visited on a map, revealing more and more of the map underneath. Though they're really cool, they do have drawbacks. For starters, the map is a fixed-scale, and usually the scale is such - [Bliss. On two wheels](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/bliss-on-two-wheels/) - Gentle adventures are good for you. My youngest daughter and I went on one recently, and this post gives you tips to follow for your own gentle adventure - [The Middle-aged Cyclist](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-middle-aged-cyclist/) - Time pauses for nobody, and before you know it - if you're not already there, or beyond it - you too will be middle-aged. That does have implications for your cycling, but it certainly doesn't mean it's the end of your cycling! Over the years, I discovered a few tricks that work for me. Your - [November Digital Detox Campout](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/november-digital-detox-campout/) - Right, here's your mission (and don't give me any of that "I don't accept it" nonsense): go camping in November! I don't care where you go camping, how you get there, or who you're going with. However, there are rules attached! A digital detox Yup, that very much means no phone usage. Sure, you can - [Coffee First, Then The World](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/coffee-first-then-the-world/) - A review of the incredible achievement of Jenny Graham, who set a new world record for being the fastest woman to cycle around the world. - [You are the power](https://www.willcycle.com/tech/you-are-the-power/) - Dynamo lights is 1 of the very best upgrades you can make to your bike. As an added bonus, you can even add on-bike USB-charging, for far less than you think! - [Climbing the Colombier - Part 2](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/climbing-the-colombier-part-2/) - This is the 2nd part of Roy Everitt's guest posts about cycling up the Grand Colombier in France, on a laden touring bike. If you missed it, Part 1 is here. Day 2 – To Lyon I slept okay but awoke early again, and went for a stroll to find a patisserie for breakfast pastries - [Climbing the Grand Colombier - Part 3](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/climbing-the-grand-colombier-part-3/) - The 3rd and final part of Roy Everitt's guest post about climbing the Grand Colombier, on a touring bike. - [Vagabond](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/vagabond/) - All your life you've been taught that vagabond is a negative term. Change that perception! Cycle tourers are vagabonds! Embrace the freedom and be a vagabond! - [Siesta](https://www.willcycle.com/climate-change/siesta/) - A terrifying look at what is not just possible, but likely in the not very distant future in the UK. This will be your apocalyptic legacy to your kids - [Who wants to be a smelly tramp?](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/who-wants-to-be-a-smelly-tramp/) - When cycle touring, especially if wild camping, personal hygiene is important. It's also far easier than you think to avoid smelling like a tramp. - [Climbing the Grand Colombier](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/climbing-the-grand-columbier/) - A guest post by Roy Everitt, telling the tale of when he cycled the Grand Colombier. On a laden touring bike - [Get lost!](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/get-lost/) - Being told to get lost is usually seen as a negative thing, but deliberately getting lost can add musch flavour to a cycling adventure. Try it. Go get lost! - [Keeping the thieves at bay](https://www.willcycle.com/security/keeping-the-thieves-at-bay/) - Nobody want their bike to be stolen, so let's look at your options of reducing the likelihood of your trusty steed getting stolen. - [Kit review: Adventuridge 2-person tent](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/kit-review-adventuridge-2-person-tent/) - A brief look at Aldi's Adventuridge 2-person tent, including testing it out while wild camping. This is a budget tent with a few pleasant surprises - [Security while cycle touring](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/security-on-tour/) - A deeper look at keeping you and your bicycle safe when cycle touring. We look at locks, and other strategies for keeping safe. - [Digital security for cyclists](https://www.willcycle.com/security/digital-security-for-cyclists/) - "Digital security? What do you mean by that? I have a complex password for my email - surely that's all I need? Besides, I'm not anyone famous or important, so nobody will target me, right?" Wrong, actually. Very wrong. Let's have a look at how digital security, and your digital footprint, reaches into your life. - [Kit Review: Fischer 70 lux dynamo headlight](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/kit-review-fischer-70-lux-dynamo-headlight/) - A kit review of the Fischer 70 lux dynamo headlight. Short version, it's excellent value for money, but it has its faults. - [To overcome the monster...](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/to-overcome-the-monster/) - While there's no substitute for cyclg up more hills to get better at it, there's a secret strategy you can us *right now* to improve your hill climbing - [Camping Coffee](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/camping-coffee/) - What are your options to enjoy a good cup of coffee when camping? Though there are more, here are the 4 main options, incl the best option for VERY good coffee! - [Audax, baby!](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/audax-baby/) - For a long time I've been threatening to get into Audaxing. Audaxing, in case you didn't know, is long distance cycling events, run by Audax UK (in the UK). With very short notice, I went and signed up for a 101km Audax event about an hour's drive from where I live. The event took place - [Darkmoor - the return](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/darkmoor-the-return/) - The return of Darkmoor as an Audax ride. Darkmoor is an all-night bike ride that crosses Dartmoor - England's last wilderness. - [Kit review - Zefal T3 top tube bag](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/kit-review-zefal-t3-top-tube-bag/) - Overall rating: ⭐⭐⭐ The Zefal T3 bag attaches to the top tube with Velcro-type fasteners, and has a clear pocket for your smartphone. It's generously-sized, but you need to decide for yourself if that's a benefit, or not. Road-tested I took the T3 bag along when I cycled (more or less) the bottom half of - [Kit Review - Nebo Mycro head torch](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/kit-review-nebo-mycro-head-torch/) - Overall rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Head torches are severely under-rated, and are critical bits of kit. They come in extremely useful when cycle commuting, cycle touring and when camping. On night-time rides, riders who use battery lights are usually able to remove their lights to illuminate parts of their bike, for example when mending a puncture. Us - [The CIA and cycling](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/the-cia-and-cycling/) - You may wonder what the CIA (and its predecessor, the OSS) could possibly have to do with cycling, and especially cycling activism. The answer will surprise you: they literally pretty much wrote the book on campaigning against cycling infrastructure! Don't believe me? Read on! The OSS The OSS (Office for Strategic Services) later pretty much - [Let me introduce you to the UK](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/let-me-introduce-you-to-the-uk/) - There are people who love to slag off the UK, pointing at miserable weather, bland food, and numerous sea-side resorts that are well past their sell-by date. Don't listen to them! Sure, the UK does get a lot of rain, but that's why it's so lush, green and filled with rivers. If you think British - [The Transcontinental Race](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-transcontinental-race/) - The Transcontinental is an ultra-endurance, self-supported bicycle race across Europe. If you thought the Tour de France was tough, wait until see this race! - [Five things you'll love about cycle touring the UK](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/five-things-youll-love-about-cycle-touring-the-uk/) - Some people can only be happy when they things to moan about, and in the absence of valid reasons, they'll invent some. Those people will try and tell you that the UK somehow is an awful place to explore by bicycle. Don't listen to them! The UK is a stunningly beautiful country, and the best - [So it went wrong](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/so-it-went-wrong/) - If a cycle tour didn't quite go as planned, did you fail, or did you still have a great adventure? Mindset determines which you'll choose. - [This is the life you're living](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/this-is-the-life-youre-living/) - This is your only life, so live it well. Instead of worrying about things that you cannot control, focus on what's within your power to control. That's more than what you realise! My heartfelt advice is to forget about your career, unless it will make you feel proud to one day have a tombstone that - [Aero Bars On A Touring Bike](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/aero-bars-on-a-touring-bike/) - Aero bars, also called tri-bars, are attached to your bike's handlebars, with the primary purpose to get your body into a far more aerodynamic position. They're mostly used by riders doing time-trials or triathlons (hence the tri-bars moniker) but they do offer benefits outside of those two fields. I recently ordered a set of aero - [How much more do you need?](https://www.willcycle.com/climate-change/how-much-more-do-you-need/) - All your life, you were taught to be striving for more. More money, more respect and recognition, more achievements, and yes, more consumption. I'm not here to lecture you, but I want to ask you some pointed questions. No, you don't have to share your answers with me, or anyone else, for that matter. However, - [The Grockle's Guide To Devon](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-grockles-guide-to-devon/) - Devon, in case you didn't know, is a county in south western UK, and is astoundingly beautiful. Renowned for its hills, beaches, wildness, and natural beauty, as well as it's great weather (by British standards). All of this makes Devon a perfect holiday destination, and millions of people visit the county each year. Devon is - [The Winner!](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-winner/) - Announcing the winner of John Devoy's fantastic book, Quondam. Picture is John holding the actual pair of shorts he wore in the book, while I'm holding the book - [Just go on and do it](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/just-go-on-and-do-it/) - I'm well aware that Nike has copyright on that phrase, which is why I changed it a tad here, but I expect even the mighty Nike will agree with what I'm saying here: Stop putting it off and just do it! (Strictly speaking, I'm agreeing with what Nike so aptly put in their slogan, and - [Bollox to AI!](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/bollox-to-ai/) - AI (Artificial Intelligence) is big news these days, and it's big business. The makers of one of the best-known AIs, Chat-GPT, claim they spent over US$ 40 million just training their AI. AI is being integrated into search engines, and more. Soon, it will permeate our lives. Keeping it real Various search-engine optimisation sites are - [Wild Atlantic Way - the things that went wrong](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-the-things-that-went-wrong/) - Looking at the array of things that went wrong while cycling Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. When cycle touring, it's important to be mentally prepared for this. - [Wild Atlantic Way - the aftermath](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-the-aftermath/) - Suddenly, almost abruptly, the adventure is over. For over two weeks I've been pedalling ever nearer to Galway. On the final day of any real cycling, I did an urban wild camp in Galway city, close to the banks of Lough Atalia, and not overly far from the Eye Cinema. The getting home part I - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 16](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-day-16/) - My Wild Atlantic Way adventure is, in cycling terms at least, all done. I'm writing this while sat in Galway train station, where I collected my pre-booked ticket to Dublin. Homeward bound Today has been a fairly long day: Doolin to Galway. I'm not a big fan of the entire area from Spanish Point to - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 15](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-day-15/) - I had a sort of enforced rest day. With only 80km (50 miles) left to cycle to Galway, I'm well ahead of schedule. The only constant is change Unfortunately, the person who kindly offered to host me in Galway on Saturday night fell ill and I had to somewhat change my plans. Originally, I'd have - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 14](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-day-14/) - The changes I was forced to make to the route, after my bike started breaking, meant that I ended up well ahead of schedule. That, in turn, means that the last few days of my ride were going to be very short days. As I write this, I'm only 50 miles from Galway - that's - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 13](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-day-13/) - As I'm still well ahead of schedule, today was only ever going to be a short day. Mike the Pies Originally I planned to end yesterday's ride in Listowel, which seems a very nice town. I charged up my phone in a pub called Mike The Pies (yes, that's its name!) When I asked about - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 11](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-day-11/) - I'm still adjusting to suddenly having such short cycling days! I started my day slowly, and that was intentional, knowing the ride from Killarney to Tralee was short an easy. A short, easy day To the west lies the Dingle peninsula, with its mountains. While I had no mountains ro cross, it still wasn't a - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 10](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-day-10/) - I took today off. To be honest, that's a decision taken the day before, while still in Kenmare. Essentially, I didn't know whether or not O'Sullivan's in Killarney would have been able to fix my bike, nor how soon. Worst yet, I didn't know if it'd last to Killarney. If you read yesterday's post, you'd - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 9](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-day-9/) - I will admit to feeling a bit despondent yesterday, what with the bike shop in Kenmare being unwilling/unable to look at my bike. At first I thought about booking into a camp site, but the nearest one was 14km back the way I came. Because I didn't feel like cycling back the 14km, I just - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 8](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-day-8/) - Ireland was back to what I've come to accept as normal today, and the people I met along the way were all very friendly. Good morning! At some point, as I was cycling past a field with cows, as I often do, I shouted out "Good morning!" Yes, I'm one of those odd people who - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 7](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-day-7/) - I make a conscious effort to try and avoid being negative, but the town of Bantry doesn't rate well at all in my opinion. Bantry - best avoided When I arrived in the town, I saw a pizza place and decided to order food from there. It was well before 5pm, but I was bluntly - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 6](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-day-6/) - Today's update also carries more news from yesterday. After waking, and packing up, I took up the offer of coffee made by the two YouTubing couples. Video killed the radio star Now I've always known that obviously there needs to be direction of some sort when making a video, but I gained some first-hand insights - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 5](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-day-5/) - Today was different: for the first time on this ride, I had nobody to meet. Like cycle touring normally is (for me, at least) I was on my own. I could stop whenever I wanted, and go as fast (or slow) as I wanted. That's liberating. Having said that, meeting John Devoy and his wife, - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 4](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-day-4/) - Just an update on my 4th day of cycling Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. Remember, if you haven't been doing so, you can follow my (glacial) progress in real-time (provided I have a data signal!) by viewing the Where's Will Now page. On that page there's a map that shows where I am at that moment, - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 3](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-day-3/) - Today was a mixed bag! It rained last night, and there was soft drizzle when I woke. After packing up, I made my way back to the road, then set off cycling. I spent a good evening in the company of John and Sara Devoy, who kindly invited me to stay over at their home. - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 2](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/wild-atlantic-way-day-2/) - Though this is Day 2, it is actually the first day of proper cycling. More trains! My day started with a bike ride to the station, to catch a train to Cork city. The real cycling started from there, but it was still a short day. I just made it onto the 09:00 train from - [Wild Atlantic Way - Day 1](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-day-1/) - Today was all about getting to Dublin. Cork city, in County Cork. However, things didn't go to plan. I belatedly discovered that there were rail strikes on for today, and that meant my very early train to Birmingham was cancelled. I quickly discovered that my only real option was to travel the day before. To - [Cycle Touring Insurance](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/cycle-touring-insurance/) - In a perfect world, nothing ever goes wrong. Sadly, we don't live in a perfect world, and in the real world, sometimes things do go wrong. This is where insurance comes into play. You? Or your bike? It's really important to understand that you get two types of insurance: 1) Insurance that covers your bike - [An Older Cyclist](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/an-older-cyclist/) - There's a reason why some of the rides I organise are called "Travelling Ouballie" rides. If you don't know what an "ouballie" is, or how to pronounce it, I suggest you go read this post first, as it explains it all. The fact is time marches on relentlessly. We're all getting older - you may - [The Cheshire Ring - a Travelling Ouballies Ride](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/the-cheshire-ring-a-travelling-ouballies-ride/) - Cycling the 100 miles of the Cheshire Ring, wild camping along the way. There were good bits, there were bad bits and there were awful bits. It was an adventure - [Competition - with a twist](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/competition-with-a-twist/) - During my upcoming Irish adventure (May 23) I'll be running a competition, along with John Devoy, where you can win a signed copy of his wonderful book, Quondam - [When there's nothing left to say...](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/when-theres-nothing-left-to-say/) - Creating good content takes time, effort and more mental bandwidth than what I have at times. Here's how things will change (it's all good). - [The Wild Atlantic Way calls](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-wild-atlantic-way-calls/) - I'm planning on cycling some 750 miles of the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland, in '23. This is the start of my planning, and I could REALLY do with your help - [The Wild Atlantic Way prep](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-wild-atlantic-way-prep/) - I'm cycling Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way in May '23, but there's so mucht to do before then. This is looking at some of the prep needed for such a big ride. - [I've seen your future drive-train: Enduo](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/ive-seen-your-future-drive-train-enduo/) - Enduo is backed by mind-blowing stats: the fastest track drive-train, and on cargo bikes, existing chains last at least 3.5 times longer! - [Cycling and weight loss](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/cycling-and-weight-loss/) - Want to know the secret to losing weight instantly? Want weight loss without putting in the effort? Find answers to these questions here. - [Why YOU need to limit YOUR travel](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/why-you-need-to-limit-your-travel/) - What made you think that YOUR few days in the son is reason enough to destroy all our futures? Leisure flying needs to end, and soon! Go make a pledge today! - [We don't want no cycle paths here](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/we-dont-want-no-cycle-paths-here/) - Judy is a cyclist and a song-writer, and I suspect you will enjoy her work. She has an entire YouTube channel that's well worth you visiting. - [GoCycle - Grand Union Canal](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/gocycle-grand-union-canal/) - 144 miles in total, mostly flat, with surfaces ranging from excellent to dire The Industrial Revolution laid the groundwork for the world we live in today, and the UK gave birth to the Industrial Revolution. Nothing in that sentence is contentious. What you may find surprising is that the canal network, and in particular the - [Wild Atlantic Way series - Sustainable cycle touring](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wild-atlantic-way-series-sustainable-cycle-touring/) - Looking at more sustainable, and less polluting travel options to get to the start of my Wild Atlantic Way cycle touring adventure - [What they don't tell you about cycle touring](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/what-they-dont-tell-you-about-cycle-touring/) - Everyone loves to give you a show reel highlighting the BEST parts of cycle touring, but what about the bits people usually don't talk about? - [The unpleasant side of cycling](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/the-unpleasant-side-of-cycling/) - Cycling usually is bliss, but it certainly isnt all bliss, and some bike rides are simply terrifying, because of dangerous drivers. How do YOU deal with that - [It's ALL about the journey](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/its-all-about-the-journey/) - Even if you won the rat-race, you'd still be a rat! Break free! Learn to change your mindset & see that it's ALL about the journey, not the destination! - [Kit Review: TyreKey Narrow](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/kit-review-tyrekey-narrow/) - The TyreKey is a revolutionary new take on tyre levers. If ever you struggled to get a stubborn tyre back onto a rim, you should read this WillCycle Kit Review! - [Wild camping and the new PCSC Bill - a guide for cyclists and hikers](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/wild-camping-and-the-new-pcsc-bill/) - Is wild camping a crime in the UK? Will you get arrested for doing wild camping? Getting answers to these basic questions wasn't easy, but here's the truth - [Cycle touring and Sustrans routes](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/cycle-touring-and-sustrans-routes/) - In the UK, there's a charity called Sustrans, and they're behind something called, perhaps overly optimistically, the National Cycle Network (NCN for short). NCN: a quality lottery NCN routes vary massively in terms of quality - from smooth, sealed, traffic-free surfaces, to swampy quagmires, to busy roads, congested with cars. As a result, many British cyclists - [Solo](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/solo/) - That first time you go cycle camping on your own can be nerve-wracking, but it's such a rewarding experience. This post tells you some of what you can expect. - [When AI writes about cycle touring](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/when-ai-writes-about-cycle-touring/) - Artificial Intelligence seems to be everywhere these days, but can it help with cycle touring? I did an experiment, using ChatGPT... - [Bikes and trains](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/bikes-and-trains/) - A look at what's involved in taking your bike on a train in the UK. It varies from a great experience, to a very difficult one, depending on the train company - [Tips for going cycle camping](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/cycle-camping/) - Thinking of going cycle camping, but unsure where to start? This post has lots of answers to questions you may have, plus a suggested kit list - [A time of hope and dreams](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/a-time-of-hope-and-dreams/) - In a world that demands ever more of you, while drowning you in bad news, being positive can be difficult. Here are some tips that may help a fair bit - [Policing climate change](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/policing-climate-change/) - Policing climate change isn't solely the task of police. It's down to each of us. But what does "Policing climate change" even mean? You may be surprised! - [The spirit of adventure](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-spirit-of-adventure/) - Adventure is found where you look for it. Don't believe me? If you live in a city, go exploring locally, taking photos of graffiti that catches your eye.Try to decipher the message the graffiti is attempting to share. Try and identify the signature (called a tag) used by one graffiti artist, then see if you - [Your next holiday in Devon or Cornwall](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/your-next-holiday-in-devon-or-cornwall/) - It's no secret that Devon and Cornwall are astoundingly beautiful counties. Similar in many ways, yet also quite distinct from each other, with the ever-present Cream Tea War looming in the background. Both counties are full of real people - salt-of-the-earth types - who are friendly and welcoming. Cornwall has a very strong national identity - - [New challenges](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/new-challenges/) - It is often said that outside your comfort zone is where the magic happens, so why don't we set a series of challenges, to see if we can get you out of your comfort zone? The title of this blog is WillCycle, so of course cycling will feature heavily in these challenges. Obviously, you're free - [Camping gear](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/camping-gear/) - "Oh no! You can't go camping with that! You need to buy reliable kit, with a tent costing at least..." Ever heard someone go off like that? I have. Here's the thing: you need an £800, expedition-grade 1-person tent only if you're going on an expedition where your life could depend on your tent not failing. - [Getting cold feet](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/getting-cold-feet/) - Getting cold feet on a winter bike ride isn't fun, but there's an effective, and surprisingly easy way to avoid it. Read on for full details! - [Come on in, the water's fine?](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/come-on-in-the-waters-fine/) - English rivers are drowning in sh*t If you read just a handful of posts on here, you'll see I'm a big fan of having more adventure in your life. Cycling is a great way to do so, but certainly not the only way. Swimming and cycling is a great combination, and better still if it - [Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/sawyer-mini-water-filtration-system/) - The Sawyer Mini is a personal water filtration system. This review looks at it in detail, and also tells you why I selected this over any other filter. - [You got the bike, you got the panniers, now what?](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/you-got-the-bike-you-got-the-panniers-now-what/) - There's a huge latent demand for cycling, and a huge demand for cycle touring. However, a latent demand for something is not the same as a huge amount of it actually happening. In the UK, if you're a new cyclist, you can go on the Let's Ride site and look for group rides in your - [You had me at velo...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/you-had-me-at-velo/) - Valentine's Day. Ah, the sweet joys of unbridled romance. Life doesn't get any better, does it? Well, seeing as you asked, of course it does! You see, you cannot take the person that makes your heart flutter out for a romantic meal, in some little gem of a restaurant, because COVID's ruined all those plans. You - [Charging your phone while cycling](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/charging-your-phone-while-cycling/) - Some consider them a curse, but it's very hard to argue against the very real benefits smartphones bring to our lives. Whether it's accessing social media, or taking a photo, most of us are using our phones all the time, and that simply means it's quite easy to totally drain your phone's battery during a - [When things go wrong](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/when-things-go-wrong/) - Most of the time, you'll go on a bicycle adventure with a smile on your face and the wind in your hair, and that smile will remain on your face all the way. Sometimes, though, the opposite happens, and things go wrong. Most of the time, being prepared for the possibility of things going wrong - [Ask not for whom the bell tolls...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/ask-not-for-whom-the-bell-tolls/) - On Sunday, I went for a lovely ride in the early-spring sunshine. It was gorgeous out! The route I was taking deliberately avoided busier roads, as low sun had often been used to get a driver off without charge, after having driven into a cyclist. COVID lockdown is (supposedly) still in full swing, though the - [Real cycle adventurers fight monsters](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/real-cycle-adventurers-fight-monsters/) - To be a real adventurer, you have to do things like solo trekking through the Amazon basin, scaling the ten tallest mountains of the world (dressed only in beach gear) or wrestling with crocodiles, right? In graphic terms, that belief - sadly quite widely held - is a steaming pile of bovine excrement, and I'll - [Ghost Rides!](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/ghost-rides/) - Kitty Jay's grave I love cycling at night, on otherwise pitch-dark lanes. It's a totally different experience, and the reason why I started Darkmoor. However, not everyone thinks cycling 100+ miles, right through the night, is great fun, and people aren't always able to fit in such rides. Park that there for a moment, and - [WeCycle - a Redlake guided adventure](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/wecycle-a-redlake-guided-adventure/) - I'm offering a guided wild-camping, gravel cycling experience. There are just five places available, so grab yours at just £86 per person, before they sell out. It will be over the weekend of Saturday, 12th of June. Please read the Ts & Cs on the EventBrite event page before buying a ticket, as buying a - [Designing a route](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/designing-a-route/) - Designing a GOOD cycle touring route isn't hard, but there are some important pointers to remember. Follow these steps and you'll end up with a great route - [Come on baby, light my fire](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/come-on-baby-light-my-fire/) - Mastery of fire was arguably the single most important human achievement. It vastly increased our species' ability to survive and prosper, and to this day we are ultra-reliant on fire. It's entirely possible that the device you're using to read this was powered by electricity generated by either coal, or gas-powered power stations, and those - [Green touring](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/green-touring/) - Green touring? As in, touring through a green landscape? Well, no. Green touring is about reducing your environmental footprint while touring. This is the point where people start claiming they care about the planet, always recycle, and what's more, once wrote a sternly-worded Tweet about a certain supermarket's excessive use of plastic, and even tagged the - [Why adventure?](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/why-adventure/) - When was the last time you did something for the first time? Just think about that for a few minutes. Also the next question: why was it so long ago? Do you remember, when you were a child, watching ants march in and out of their underground homes, sometimes spending ages, in pure fascination? Do - [T-shirts and more](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/t-shirts-and-more/) - After a close-shave with a printing company that seems to be a horrific, and entirely untrustworthy bunch - see my post about Teezily and whatever you do, never do business with them - I have switched back to my old T-shirt printers. Yes, the prices are higher, and don't include postage, but that seems fair, given - [It's the freedom](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/its-the-freedom/) - There's a lot to be said for package holidays to an all-inclusive resort, though most of what I'd have to say about such holidays wouldn't be particularly flattering. Oh sure, you don't have to worry about getting there (other than getting to the airport - more on airports a bit later) and once at the - [Cream Tea Wars](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/cream-tea-wars/) - This post will undoubtedly upset some people, but it's important that the truth is made known. I would also urge you to read the full post, including the small print at the end. For those unfortunate souls who might not know this, a cream tea is a light refreshment, consisting of a scone, with clotted - [Know your place!](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/know-your-place/) - We just lost the right to wild camp on Dartmoor - the last place in all of England & Wales where it was legal. What happens now? - [Ultimate Guide to Planning Your 1st Cycle Tour](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/ultimate-guide-to-planning-your-1st-cycle-tour/) - Cycle touring is a wonderful adventure, but it can be nerve-wracking planning your 1st cycle tour. Here are a lot of answers to help you have a wonderful tour. - [The Ugly Truth About Cycle Touring](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-ugly-truth-about-cycle-touring/) - The ugly truth about cycle touring? Well yes, there is an ugly truth. Read on and you'll discover what it is. - [Why YOU should use RideWithGPS](https://www.willcycle.com/mapping/why-you-should-use-ridewithgps/) - RideWithGPS offers some great new route functionality, and that plays VERY nicely with the circular route guides I produce. Go have a look! - [The Rail-Hike-Camp map](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-rail-hike-camp-map/) - The Rail-Hike-Camp map is aimed at hikers, but offers great value to cycle tourers who plan on taking their bikes on the train. Have a look - it's really useful - [So this is Christmas...](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/so-this-is-christmas/) - If you'll forgive the John Lennon earworm I just gave you, please do read this very Christmassy post? - [Crash card](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/crash-card/) - Crash Card is something you hope you'll never need, but is VERY useful to have after a crash, when you'll still be in shock & will help you not overlook things - [Kit Review: A Trangia-copy spirit stove](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/kit-review-a-trangia-copy-spirit-stove/) - A review of a spirts-burning stove I got as backup, in case it's too cold for my gas stove, or in case I ran out of gas. This is a very good copy of a Trangia - [Can you hear the road is calling...](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-road-is-calling/) - Can you hear it? The call of the road, summonsing you to load up your bicycle, and go off on an adventure. Will you answer the call of the road? - [A car diet](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/a-car-diet/) - Why do we restrict ebikes to 250w, but think nothing of allowing cars capable of 200mph, and allow cars to get to the size of Sherman tanks? - [More route functionality](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/more-route-functionality/) - The GoCycle multi-day cycle touring route guides from WillCycle now come with added benefits - free upgraded functionality for the RideWithGPS app (which I use) - [Dirty diesel versus clean cargo bikes](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/dirty-diesel-versus-clean-cargo-bikes/) - Cargo bikes are set to become the norm for inner-city deliveries, and in London, there are rumours of a scrappage scheme, swapping dieselvans for cargo bikes - [The threat to wild camping on Dartmoor](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/the-threat-to-wild-camping-on-dartmoor/) - The right to wild camp on Dartmoor is under threat from a rich landowner. This post explains why it matters, and what YOU can do about it. - [Spreading the Christmas cheer](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/spreading-the-christmas-cheer/) - Struggling to buy a good Christmas present for the cyclist in your life? Or perhaps you're fed up with socks for Christmas & need to give someone more ideas? - [Fear regrets, not failures](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/fear-regrets-not-failures/) - We all live in fear The difference is what you fear. Some people fear the dark, some unfortunate souls fear open spaces. Many of us fight Imposter Syndrome on a daily basis, and fear being found out. Some fear being inadequate. Most fear death. A surprising amount even fear success. Almost everyone fears failure. And that - [Cycle camping](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/cycle-camping-2/) - Cycle camping is great: Just pack all your camping kit on your bike and cycle to that great camping spot for a simply superb adventure. This guide tell you more - [WillCycle Adventure Fund](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/willcycle-adventure-fund/) - I'm setting up the WillCycle Adventure Fund, which will be a crowdfunded annual award of (hopefully) £250. Applicants to the fund will need to submit their request as a comment to this post, detailing why they should receive the money. I will publish all the applications in a future post, and ask you to vote on your - [Every adventure counts](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/every-adventure-counts/) - It's YOUR life. Live it on YOUR terms. Have an adventure, even if only a small one. You may be surprised to read that adventures are healthy, and necessar - [Gravel !](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/gravel/) - Traffic-free gravel routes! I'm expanding my list of traffic-free cycle routes to also include gravel routes, so click here to get your share of rough stuff - [Crowd-sourcing traffic-free route guides](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/crowd-sourcing-traffic-free-route-guides/) - Let's create route guides for traffic-free cycling routes in the UK. If you can, please help? And if not, please share with others, so they can help? - [Coffee Ride 2023](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/coffee-ride-2023/) - A Coffee Ride (note the caps) is a ride where you stop to brew up some coffee, anywhere outside. Do something different: go on at least 1 Coffee Ride per month - [The trouble with canal routes...](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-trouble-with-canal-routes/) - Ah, the blissful, scenic cycling along a canal simply can't be beaten, can it? But are you aware of the risks? And no, not the risk of falling in, either! - [Book review: The Slow Road To Teheran](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/book-review-the-slow-road-to-teheran/) - Frustrating, nail-biting, compelling and ultimately, unputdownable. This my review of Rebecca Lowe's book, The Slow Road To Teheran. - [Book Review - Signs Of Life, by Stephen Fabes](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/book-review-signs-of-life-by-stephen-fabes/) - Signs Of Life tells the story of when Stephen Fabes quit his job as a medical doctor to cycle around the world. Like any good travel journal, Fabes doesn't simply give a blow-by-blow account of the journey, which took him six years to complete. In fact, there are entire countries he cycled through that almost don't - [Book review: Along The Med On A Bike Called Reggie, by Andrew P Sykes](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/book-review-along-the-med-on-a-bike-called-reggie-by-andrew-p-sykes/) - I've reviewed two other books by the same author before - his 1st book, and his last book. This review is for his second book, which I only fairly recently purchased and read. Sykes is on Twitter as @CyclingEurope, so give him a follow and he has a podcast, with full details available at his - [Book review: Spain To Norway On A Bike Called Reggie, by Andrew P Sykes](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/book-review-spain-to-norway-on-a-bike-called-reggie-by-andrew-p-sykes/) - I've reviewed one of Andrew P Sykes' books before - the first book he published, but for some reason or another didn't get around to reading any of his other books. Since my last review, he's published several more books. He's on Twitter as @CyclingEurope, and he has a podcast, with full details available at - [Book review - Slow Coast Home, by Josie Dew](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/book-review-slow-coast-home-by-josie-dew/) - This book came highly recommended, and it was with much anticipation that I started reading it. What struck me immediately is that the author is the kind of person I like: she's not overly organised, prefers wild-camping, and feels at home while cycle touring. Consistently, throughout the book, Dew's irrepressible sense of humour shines - [Book review - Riding In The Zone Rouge, by Tom Isitt](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/book-review-riding-in-the-zone-rouge-by-tom-isitt/) - In 1919, some madman decided to hold a race called Circuit Des Champs De Bataille - the Tour Of The Battlefields. The battlefields in question were that of World War One, and the route was deliberately designed to run through 2 000 kilometres of carnage. This incredible book tells the story of that race. The - [Book review - The Man Who Cycled The World, by Mark Beaumont](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/book-review-the-man-who-cycled-the-world-by-mark-beaumont/) - Mark Beaumont set a new Guinness World Record for circumnavigating the world by bicycle in 2008, and this book tells the tale of that event. It sounds so simple, doesn't it? "Oh, he cycled around the world, and?". Let's put that in perspective: have you ever cycled 100+ miles in one day? If so, how - [Book review - Endless Perfect Circles, by Ian Walker](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/book-review-endless-perfect-circles-by-ian-walker/) - Dr Ian Walker is quite well known on Cycling Twitter, being an ardent advocate for cycling, and usually being the voice of reason. Though an obviously very intelligent man, the impression Ian Walker mostly creates is that of a humble and kind human being. For reasons I cannot begin to understand, these are strong characteristics - [Book review - Where There's A Will, by Emily Chappell](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/book-review-where-theres-a-will-by-emily-chappell/) - Where There's A Will, by Emily Chappell tells the story of how she won the Trans-Continental Race, losing her friend Mike Hall, and more. An astounding book - [Book review: Crossing Europe...](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/book-review-crossing-europe/) - No, sadly this post isn't about a forthcoming long-distance cycling holiday. Instead, it is about a book I recently read. I've never done a book review before, so forgive me if this one is a tad clumsy. This book is called Crossing Europe on a bike called Reggie and tells the story of Andrew Sykes' cycle - [WillCycle on the Fediverse](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/willcycle-on-the-fediverse/) - Why I switched to Mastodon, and a plain-language explainer to help you make the switch too. It's easy after you read this - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/traffic-free-cycling-routes-uk/) - Interactive Map This is a growing collection of traffic-free cycling routes in the UK. To find a route guide, simply click on the various coloured lines on the interactive map. IMPORTANT: This is VERY far from complete, and your help would be wonderful. If there are any routes I've not yet listed, please simply add a comment - [Ads? Are you selling out??](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/ads-are-you-selling-out/) - I started running ads on here, and am asking you to please turn your adblocker off for WillCycle. This posts explains the valid reasons for all this. - [New traffic-free cycling route guides?](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/new-traffic-free-cycling-route-guides/) - Why the need for a complete, online and detailed collection of traffic-free cycle routes in the UK, and how YOU can help make that happen sooner - [Will's Caveat](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/wills-caveat/) - You've heard of Sod's Law, Murphy's Law, and Occam's Razor, plus a myriad other laws, suppositions and more. Well, today, I'm adding to it. Allow me to introduce to you Will's Caveat. At this point, I'll briefly deviate, to say that I like hills. So much so, that I have a life philosophy, which started - [November Coffee Ride](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/november-coffee-ride/) - Every month of the year I'm doing a Coffee Ride - just a ride somewhere for no purpose other than making and enjoying a good cup of coffee. Join me! - [Go for a Coffee Ride!](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/go-for-a-coffee-ride/) - Admit it - you love coffee almost as much as you love cycling. After all, the 2 are a perfect match.Learn what a Coffee Ride is, then go organise your own. - [Travel to the Bronze Age](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/travel-to-the-bronze-age/) - No bikes, for a change This week, my mate Caspar and I went hiking on Dartmoor. For those that don't know, Dartmoor is the last wilderness left in England. Situated entirely within the county of Devon, it is also the only place in England where wild-camping is perfectly legal. In search of history... The part - [Camel Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/camel-trail/) - Recently I cycled part of the famous Camel Trail, specifically the bit between Wadebridge and Padstow. Now the Camel Trail is decribed by Cornwall County Council as "arguably the most successful recreational multi use trail in the UK" and I would certainly describe the estuary part as surrounded by stunning scenery. They go on to - [Book review - All Downhill From Here](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/book-review-all-downhill-from-here/) - All Downhill From Here, by Paul Waters This book tries to be both a "hilarious" account of the author's JOGLE (John O'Groats to Land's End) ride, as well as a "How to" guide, for those aspiring to do the same. Waters' writing style will be enjoyed by some, but I'm not in that crowd. Instead, - [Autumn blues](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/autumn-blues/) - Do you suffer from autumn blues? That feeling of melancholy when the leaves turn red and the sun grows weak. I'm taking steps this year to combat autumn blues. - [Coleman Performance Gas review - best avoided!](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/coleman-performance-gas-best-avoided/) - Coleman's Performance Gas failed me badly, at a temperature above what it's rated to operate at. They claim it will work at -5 C, but it stopped working at 4 C - [Cycling tattoos](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/cycling-tattoos/) - Get inked! Tattoos are a highly personal, and sometimes emotive subject. Some abhor them, some love them. I'm in the latter group, but of course it's OK for you to not like tattoos. However, we all like cycling, don't we? And what better way to celebrate cycling than with a collection of cycling-related tattoos? Cycling - [The quest for power](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-quest-for-power/) - When off-grid cycle touring, there's no access to mains power, so you either have to carry power with you, or find a way to generate it. - [SheCycles - Sarah](https://www.willcycle.com/women/shecycles-sarah/) - SheCycles is a growing series of posts highlighting women who cycle. In this SheCycles post, we meet Sarah and see some photos of her cycling in the mountains - [Penzance - Plymouth Pootle - a Travelling Ouballies Ride](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/penzance-plymouth-pootle/) - The south coast of Cornwall is exquisitely beautiful, and cycling all of it, from Penzance to Plymouth, is a ride I always wanted to do. - [Back to basics: Map reading](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/back-to-basics-map-reading/) - Being able to navigate using a map & compass can be a life-saving skill. This post aims to clarify some of the mysteries that surround it and yes, YOU can do it - [Back to basics: Navigation](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/back-to-basics-navigation/) - "The sun never sets on the British Empire" To a degree, the story of navigation is the story of the British Empire. Don't believe me? Well, read on! Today, maps from around the world use a system of longitudes and latitudes. These are imaginary lines all over the earth, with longitudes running from the north - [What do you want?](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/what-do-you-want/) - Like most people, I suspect you never sat down to figure out what you REALLY want from life. Stop chasing things that society expects you to & live for yourself - [Back to basics - winter cycling](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/back-to-basics-winter-cycling/) - Every year a bunch of people start cycling in the spring or the summer, and are determined to carry on cycling through winter. Every winter there are loads of cyclists who give up cycling. Let's have a look at what you can do to keep you riding through winter. Wet Let's deal with the elephant in - [There's more to cycling than just club rides](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/theres-more-to-cycling-than-just-club-rides/) - Club rides are great - head down, arse up, going as fast as possible - but they certainly are NOT the be-all and end-all of cycling. Here's why. - [Eurovelo touring](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/eurovelo-touring/) - Eurovelo routes Eurovelo routes are a series of often amazing, long-distance cycle touring routes, criss-crossing the continent of Europe. Some of these you may already know (or at least have heard of) like the Danube Route, or the Rhine Route. Those two follow two big rivers in Europe. The Eurovelo network is brought to you - [Beginner's Guide To Planning A Cycling Tour](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/beginners-guide-to-planning-a-cycling-tour/) - You heard stories of others going cycle touring, and you'd like to do the same, but you're unsure about how to start, right? This is a good place to start! - [Brighton Bimble - a Travelling Ouballies ride](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/brighton-bimble-a-travelling-ouballies-ride/) - If you're looking for a challenging adventure ride, then this is the route for you. Read my tale of joy and pain - all part of cycling the Brighton Bimble - [Brighton Bimble - the start](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/brighton-bimble-the-start/) - Time to go test the latest GoCycle cycle touring route I designed. This one's a 100-mile circular route, looping through Brighton and using quietSussex lanes - [When police fail you...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/when-police-fail-you/) - Almost any cyclist has a story about being let down or fobbed off by police. You don't have to accept that. There ARE more options open to you! - [The Rhine - a logistical nightmare](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-rhine-a-logistical-nightmare/) - I've long had this dream of cycling the Rhine, from source to sea. Sadly, reality intruded in a big way and there are many obstacles preventing me from doing so - [Old is the new new](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/old-is-the-new-new/) - Don't be fooled into thinking new is always better. Here's a secret: old is the new new. Repair, re-use and repurpose is where it's at. You should try it - [Footprints](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/footprints/) - Some footprints should be temporary, like when camping. Some should be permanent, like when spreading happiness. CO2 footprints should be TINY! - [Are YOU ethical in your adventures?](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-ethics-of-adventure/) - Adventure is great, but you still have a responsibility to make ethical choices, and that includes not only how you behave, but also the kit you use - [But what about your privacy!!?](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/but-what-about-your-privacy/) - Is live-sharing your location good, or is it bad? The answer isn't as simple as you'd hope for, and varies from "It's very bad" to "It's rather good - [Bampton Cycle Shelter](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/bampton-cycle-shelter/) - What is a Bampton Cycle Shelter? Well, there's only one, just outside Bampton (clue is in the name) and if you do cycle touring and wild camping you'll LOVE it! - [Welcome To My Garden](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/welcome-to-my-garden/) - A new concept in camping. Sign up - for free - either as a guest, or a host and meet likeminded people who share your love of cycle touring. - [Carry On Camping - quest for better campsites](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/carry-on-camping-quest-for-better-campsites/) - Cycle touring is big business, but far too many UK camp sites are unaware of the benefits it offers them. We are NOT the same as people arriving by car! - [Lungs recover, bones heal, but mental health is important](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/lungs-recover-bones-heal-but-mental-health-is-important/) - There's a stigma attached to mental health, which is silly - we all have mental health. Looking after your mental health is as important as your physical health - [Giveaway - Food For The Road](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/giveaway-food-for-the-road/) - Here's your only ever chance to win a copy of Food For The Road - a cookbook just for cycle touring and cycle camping! 19 delicious, single-pot recipes - [With great power comes...](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/with-great-power-comes/) - ... great complexity? If you're a regular visitor here, you'll know I have a hub dynamo on my bike, and rely on that to help keep my gadgets charged when out cycling. Especially on multi-day, off-grid rides, with wild camping along the way, your options are either to be self-reliant, or to have all your - [Preparing for a longer cycle tour](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/preparing-for-a-longer-cycle-tour/) - Is going on a longer cycle tour really that much different from shorter tours? Here we look at some of the differences, and some strategies to help with that - [Book review - Miles From Nowhere, by Barbara Savage](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/book-review-miles-from-nowhere-by-barbara-savage/) - Miles From Nowhere, by Barbara Savage The very short version is that this is a book about a round-the-world bike ride. That description, while true, doesn't come remotely close to doing this book justice! Published in 1983, it tells the story of how Barbara Savage and her husband Larry Savage, set off to first ride - [Am I good enough?](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/am-i-good-enough/) - How many times in your life did you shy away from doing something, purely because you thought that somehow you weren't GOOD enough? - [Mass campout postponed](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/mass-campout-postponed/) - Best-laid plans, and all that On Sunday, I had a gorgeous ride. Unfortunately, some 2 miles from home, things changed rapidly. While cycling downhill, along a very narrow rural lane, I crashed. From the state of my bike's front wheel, it seems something must've gotten stuck in the spokes, breaking at least 10 spokes an - [The WillCycle Mass Campout](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/the-willcycle-mass-campout/) - A mass campout that's distributed geographically, and YOU are invited! Click the link for full details of what's involved - [Creatures of the night...](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/creatures-of-the-night/) - Have you ever cycled in complete darkness? Night cycling is a totally different experience, and judging by rides such as the Dunwich Dynamo, it's popular, too. And yet, so many people have never gone night cycling. There's something magical about cycling at night. No, I'm not referring to urban night cycling, along roads with streetlights. - [Do you chart a course by the stars?](https://www.willcycle.com/mapping/do-you-chart-a-course-by-the-stars/) - While being able to navigate using the night sky is a great skill to have, there are far better options available to you, starting with a simple map. I freely, and even proudly admit that I'm a map geek. I've always been one, since I can remember. Maps, you see, tell stories, and if you wanted - [Devon Coast To Coast - A Travelling Ouballies Ride](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/devon-coast-to-coast-a-travelling-ouballies-ride/) - A Travelling Ouballies ride, covering (most of) the Devon Coast To Coast route, and includes sleeping over in a forbidden, haunted castle! - [Dynamo!](https://www.willcycle.com/tech/dynamo/) - UPDATE: You may want to read this newer blog post, about charging your devices while cycling For years I've been threatening to upgrade to a dynamo hub as the idea of generating the power you need to light your way yourself has always appealed to me. Add to that the fact that I enjoy all-night - [The making of a GoCycle route guide](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-making-of-a-gocycle-route-guide/) - Making a GoCycle route guide is far more involved than you may have guessed & takes far longer than you may realise. This posts explains why they're so good - [Cycle commuting for beginners](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/cycle-commuting-for-beginners/) - With fuel prices through the roof, as well as climate change, there's never been a better time to start cycle commuting. This post has some helpful tips - [The £100 Cycle Touring Challenge](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-100-cycle-touring-challenge/) - Will you be brave enough to take up this cycle touring challenge and go cycle touring, while remaining under the budget of £100? - [Sub 24-hours Overnighter](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/sub-24-hours-overnighter/) - What is a S24O? Adventure is to be found where you look for it. In a hectic, modern life, it can be so easy to lose sight of that though. We are under constant pressure at work, and often at home, too. So how do you find time for adventure? Sub 24-hours Overnighter A Sub - [In a Now world, learn the value of slow](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/in-a-now-world-learn-the-value-of-slow/) - Cheetahs are the fastest land animal, can run at 60+ mph & live for around 12 years. Giant tortoises has a top speed of just 0.3 mph, but they live to 190 years - [WillCycle Adventure Fund Winner](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/willcycle-adventure-fund-winner/) - And we have a winner! You lot voted, and one winner was overwhelmingly picked by you. Hope they have a fantastic adventure and that the money helps towards it - [WillCycle Adventure Fund Entries](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/willcycle-adventure-fund-entries/) - Here are the entries to the WillCycle Adventure Fund. For obvious reasons, I've removed people's names from the entries. Voting is now open, and on the 9th of May I'll announce the winner. I will never repeat the WillCycle Adventure Fund, as entry numbers were disappointingly low. Still, we have a total of £95 raised - [The Power Of Travelling Slowly](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-power-of-travelling-slowly/) - Have YOU discovered the benefits of cycling slowly? Life is fast-paced enough and there's no need for you to add to the rushing when you can go slow - [The American Dream](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-american-dream/) - The UK has long held a special attraction for may Americans. If you're an American cyclist, and looking for your next cycle touring destination, look no further - [10 good reasons to go cycle touring](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/10-good-reasons-to-go-cycle-touring/) - Here's a list of ten great reasons to go cycle touring. Go on, you will absolutely love it! - [Your first cycle camping trip](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/your-first-cycle-camping-trip/) - Excitement! The night before you set off on your first ever cycle wild camping trip on your own, you will probably be nervous. And more than a little excited! It's a big thing you're doing - stepping out of your comfort zone, and into the unknown. Of course, when we're nervous, we're most likely to - [Tips for staying warm while camping](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/tip-for-staying-warm-while-camping/) - Concerned about being cold while camping? Does that prevent you from going camping unless it's guaranteed warm weather? Here are tips to help you stay warm! - [Disaster on the Grand Union Canal](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/disaster-on-the-grand-union-canal/) - The tale of my first, aborted attempt at cycling the Grand Union Canal. This was back in Aug 20, after lockdown was relaxed enough & is a story of many mishaps - [April 2022 Cycling T-Shirt Giveaway](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/april-2022-cycling-t-shirt-giveaway/) - Want to win a FREE cycling T-shirt? These awesome designs aren't available elsewhere, so read the rules, and get your entry in right away! - [But Will, you never cycled around the world!](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/but-will-you-never-cycled-around-the-world/) - You don't have to go cycling around the world to have an adventure! Little adventures are great fun too, and you can do them far more often! I'll show you how - [Book Review: Travels With Rosinante, by Bernard Magnouloux](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/book-review-travels-with-rosinante-by-bernard-magnouloux/) - Travels With Rosinante tell the story of when Bernard Magnouloux set off to cycle around the world. He's a peculiar character you soon discover when you read it - [The Truth](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-truth/) - Just like love, cycle touring is for everyone. However, just like love, most people seem to think it's reserved for a special few. It really isn't! - [The Impact We All Can Have](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/the-impact-we-all-can-have/) - We are all free. We are free to make up our own minds. We are free to make our own decisions. We are not free from the consequences of those decisions. - [Is cycle touring right for you?](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/is-cycle-touring-right-for-you/) - Cycle touring offers a degree of freedom that most people aren't accustomed to. Choose freedom - get on your bike and go cycle touring! You'll LOVE it! - [C2C to see what there is to see](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/c2c-to-see-what-there-is-to-see/) - Crossing England from sea to sea The island of Great Britain is longer than it is wide, meaning there are lots of opportunities to cycle a "coast to coast" of some sort, crossing the island (mostly) from east to west, or vice versa. There are many well-known cycle touring routes that cross northern England, with - [Giveaway - Quondam, by John Devoy](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/giveaway-quondam-by-john-devoy/) - I've partnered up with John Devoy, the author of Quondam - Travels In A Once World, to give away a signed copy of the book. In case you've not previously heard of it, I've done a review of it here, and it remains one of the very best travel books I have ever read. I - [March 2022 Giveaway](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/march-2022-giveaway/) - We all like a freebie, don't we? Well, during 2022, I'm doing 12 freebies! That's right - I'm doing ONE T-shirt giveaway per month. How to enter Entering is simple, but requires a Twitter account. Just follow WillCycle on Twitter, then browse through the T-shirt designs available and pick your favourite. Next, click the link - [Tyre-Glider](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/tyre-glider/) - The good people at Tyre-Glider gave me two Tyre-Gliders, so I can do a review. I only need one, and will happily post the other to one of you, provided you will also do a review on it (to be published on here, along with my own). Incidentally, the pic of a Tyre-Glider is straight - [Spring in the air](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/spring-in-the-air/) - Different people measure the start of spring in different ways, so I expect there will be a fair few who dispute that spring is here. Sure, storms Dudley and Eunice hammered the UK this past week, but that doesn't alter the fact that spring has arrived early. Look around you: the obvious signs, like daffodils - [Monthly challenge: February](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/monthly-challenge-february/) - I thought I'd spice things up a bit for you, by setting you a monthly challenge, starting this month. These challenges will vary considerable - some will involve cycling, and some will involve walking. Most would involve being outside, but certainly not all. Why should you do it? Simple: to add some fun to your - [February 2022 Giveaway](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/february-2022-giveaway/) - We all like a freebie, don't we? Well, during 2022, I'm doing 12 freebies! That's right - I'm doing ONE T-shirt giveaway per month. How to enter Entering is simple, but requires a Twitter account. Just follow WillCycle on Twitter, then browse through the T-shirt designs available and pick your favourite. Next, click the link - [Cheshire Ring - the beginning](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/cheshire-ring-the-beginning/) - The Cheshire Ring - for canal boaters The Cheshire Ring is well-known to canal boaters, forming a very rough triangle, and is made up from six different canals in Cheshire: the Ashton Canal, Peak Forest Canal, the Macclesfield Canal, the Trent and Mersey Canal, the Bridgewater Canal and finally, the Rochdale Canal. The Cheshire Ring - [Dynamo lights, again](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/dynamo-lights-again/) - I used to ride with battery lights, and built the battery pack myself, using 18650 cells I harvested from old laptop batteries. My main light was a 5 x Cree T6 monster. Now, a single Cree T6 chip outputs between 700 and 1200 lumen, depending on a number of factors, including the chip itself, external - ["Act as if our home is on fire. Because it is"](https://www.willcycle.com/climate-change/act-as-if-our-home-is-on-fire-because-it-is/) - “Act as if our home is on fire. Because it is” *These are the words of the incredible Greta Thunberg, a 16 yo climate activist from Sweden, who has single-handedly done more to highlight this extinction-level issue than most politicians combined. That in itself is a damning indication of just how miserably politicians are failing their - [Emergency!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/emergency/) - I recently read about a cyclist based in Edinburgh, who crashed after hitting black ice. She both broke and dislocated her elbow, and couldn't even stand up, due to the pain she was in. She was riding with another cyclist, who also crashed and was also injured. The crash happened at around 11h30, and from - [The miracle treatment!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-miracle-treatment/) - What would you say if I told you I found a miracle treatment for stress, anxiety, depression, and a number of other ailments? A treatment that's scientific, and proven through peer-reviewed research? Would you want to have it prescribed? I've long believed that cycling is not only good for my body, but also for my - [Making a route guide](https://www.willcycle.com/mapping/making-a-route-guide/) - What actually goes into making a route guide? For me, it begins with research - what sort of route am I thinking of? Do I want a traffic-free and family-friendly route, a fast, hilly and challenging road route, or a leisurely slow route, perhaps with a picnic at the end? Once I know that, I - [Top Cycle Touring Tips](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/top-touring-tips/) - The beauty of cycle touring is the freedom is gives you, and that freedom includes how you tour. Some may choose foreign destinations, while others stay more local. Some may ride with everything but the kitchen sink, while others ride from hotel to hotel, carrying almost nothing on the bike. Broadly speaking, there simply is - [Cold-weather camping - a new frontier to me](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/cold-weather-camping-a-new-frontier-to-me/) - I've done lots of wild-camping in my life. Interestingly, wild-camping is a term I only learned after moving to the UK. In South Africa wild-camping is what you mean when you say you're going camping. My wild-camping experiences include only carrying a small daypack, with water and food and almost nothing else, and simply sleeping - [I'm not anti-social - I'm pro-solitude](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/im-not-anti-social-im-pro-solitude/) - I lived decades of my life believing I'm anti-social, that I simply don't possess the social skills others have. Some of my happiest memories are of me as a kid, in South Africa going off - all on my own - into the mountains on the edge of town. Just a barefooted boy, having an adventure. Confusingly, - [Walking back to happiness, woopah, oh yeah, yeah](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/walking-back-to-happiness-woopah-oh-yeah-yeah/) - You've always wanted a bit more adventure in your life, but something's always held you back. But guess what? I know what that something is, or more accurately, I know who it is. Yes, it's you! We all hold ourselves back, but usually we're not comfortable with admitting that, so we come up with a great - [No Girls Allowed - a post aimed squarely at men](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/no-girls-allowed-a-post-aimed-squarely-at-men/) - A few days before International Women's Day, this post is aimed just at men. Like you, I'm a man, and as a man, I have limited insight in what it means to be a woman. However, even as a man, I can see the severe inequality that exists in the world, and I recognise that - [Things YOU can do for International Women's Day](https://www.willcycle.com/women/things-you-can-do-for-international-womens-day/) - Happy International Women's Day! The single biggest reason why we still so desperately need International Women's Day is simple: sexism remains rife in everyday society. Now, there's a saying that goes like this: "If it's to be, it's up to me". Like all change, every one of us need to do our part. Remember, it isn't - [SheCycles - SuziQ](https://www.willcycle.com/women/shecycles-suziq/) - SheCycles is a series of posts in which I ask women some questions, and I post their responses. All women are asked the same questions, and are obviously free to answer as much, or as little, as they please. The very first SheCycles was about Annie Kopchovsky, who was the first woman to travel around - [Book review - Getting Hold Of A Gun Is Easy, by Alwin Wiederhold](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/book-review-getting-hold-of-a-gun-is-easy-by-alwin-wiederhold/) - This book hit home for me. So much so, that I had to wait quite some time after I finished reading it, before writing this review. I need to explain that: I grew up in South Africa, during the Apartheid years, and many things touched upon in this book are things I lived through. If - [Camping cooking](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/camping-cooking/) - I'm not much of a foodie, and doing a post on food isn't exactly how I envisioned myself spending a number of hours. Having said that, the fact remains that - regardless of how much, or how little you enjoy food - your body will need fuel to power each pedal stroke of your cycle - [The Primrose Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-primrose-trail/) - In the late 1960s, the UK engaged in a staggering act of self-harm, during a process that became known as the Beeching Cuts. Under the scheme, spearheaded by Dr Beeching, the UK's very wide rail network was decimated, while roads building was massively ramped up. As has been repeatedly demonstrated, induced demand is a real - [SheCycles - Naomi Freireich](https://www.willcycle.com/women/shecycles-naomi-freireich/) - When doing a SheCycles post about a historic figure, such as Annie Kopchovsky, I only have what is written about her to go on. When writing about someone now, I have the benefit of asking questions, and mostly, I'll ask exactly the same questions of these inspiring women. Some women, like Naomi, will have had - [Oh, just a little bike ride](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/oh-just-a-little-bike-ride/) - This Easter weekend, I went and tested my Somerset Circle route. COVID restrictions remain in place, but as from the 29th of March, effective relaxation of the restrictions meant I could wild camp, without falling foul of those restrictions. My day started early, and I was on the road, cycling the 11 miles to Plymouth - [SheCycles - Lori](https://www.willcycle.com/women/shecycles-lori/) - SheCycles are a series of posts highlighting women who cycle, in their own words, asking them a series of questions about themselves. I ask the same questions, and the women are free to answer only those questions they want to, and to interpret the questions in any way they want to. The aim of SheCycles - [SheCycles - Helen](https://www.willcycle.com/women/shecycles-helen/) - In this SheCycles post, I'd like to introduce you to Helen. Helen is a lifelong Londoner and lover of bikes, swimming and Liverpool FC, and here she talks about her experiences on two wheels. Helen's on Twitter as @Coshgirl, and you should definitely follow her. In case you didn't know, SheCycles is a series of - [SheCycles - Anne Ramsey](https://www.willcycle.com/women/shecycles-anne-ramsey/) - In this SheCycles post, I get to introduce you to Anne Ramsey (she's on Twitter as @anneramsey740 - do follow her). Anne is a regular cycle commuter, who often posts videos of her rides. In case you didn't know, SheCycles is a series of posts highlighting a range of women, all different, and all awesome - [My bike - a 5-year review of a Genesis CdA](https://www.willcycle.com/kit-review/my-bike-a-5-year-review-of-a-genesis-cda/) - I used to commute 15 hilly miles each way on a daily basis, on a road bike. 700c x 25 tyres may be light and fast, but they sure aren't designed to take the knocks that rural Devon lanes offer, especially on a cold, dark, and often wet winter commute. My road bike has rim - [Do electric cars dream of saving the world?](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/do-electric-cars-dream-of-saving-the-world/) - We are painfully slowly heading to the end of the oil era (seriously, if you had any shares in oil companies, which I sincerely hope you don't, now is the time to dump those shares). Large car manufacturers realise this, which is why you can now buy electric panzerwagons and even electric American "muscle cars". - [Grand Union Canal - a bit of an obsession](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/grand-union-canal-a-bit-of-an-obsession/) - Some ten years or so ago, I was visiting a friend who lived in Warwick, and obviously I took my bike with. He did the neighbourly thing and showed me a local tourist attraction, Hatton Locks. At the time, I knew canals existed, and that people lived on narrowboats, but that's about as far as - [I can't change anything! I'm just a single person](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/i-cant-change-anything-im-just-a-single-person/) - One of the objections you'll often hear about climate change is "But I'm just one person - nothing I do will make any difference". You may even have used that excuse yourself, and if you did, you probably believed it, too. Let's fix that, right here, right now, shall we? You are not just a leaf - [Some more thoughts on navigation](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/some-more-thoughts-on-navigation/) - I'm an unashamed, proud map-geek, and I generally find navigation easy to do. I also provide digital route guides for a growing number of routes. Over the bank holiday weekend at the end of May, I went cycling the Grand Union Canal, along with a friend of mine, Dom (@Tdr1nka on Twitter). I've spent considerable - [SheCycles - Robyn Jankel](https://www.willcycle.com/women/shecycles-robyn-jankel/) - In this latest SheCycles post, we get to know Robyn Jankel, in her own words. If you're unfamiliar with SheCycles, it's a serious of posts in which we're introduced to a range of perfectly normal, completely different and absolutely awesome women, in their own words. Click here to read all the SheCycles posts. That's enough - [HeCycles?](https://www.willcycle.com/women/hecycles/) - If you're upset because I do a SheCycles series of posts, but not a HeCycles series, we need to talk. Sexism remains a common element in the world, and in the UK, women are on average paid just over 80% the wages men receive for the same job. As the Sarah Everard tragedy showed, and - [SheCycles - Niamh Lewis](https://www.willcycle.com/women/shecycles-niamh-lewis/) - I'm delighted to bring you yet another SheCycles post. In case you didn't know, SheCycles is a series of posts in which a range of different female cyclists answer the same questions, in their own words. You should read all the SheCycles posts, by clicking this link. This post introduces Niamh Lewis - she's on - [Cycle touring in a new age](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/cycle-touring-in-a-new-age/) - COVID has changed the world, probably in a permanent way, but there are bigger changes on the horizon. I am of course referring to man-made Climate Change, which is undeniably real and terrifying. The heart of the matter is transport-related emissions need to radically fall, and that has clear, and direct implications for how we - [Coffee - nectar of the gods](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/coffee-nectar-of-the-gods/) - In life, there are two kinds of people: those who choose to drink coffee, and those that don't. I' firmly in the former category, and a good coffee is one of life's essentials to me. Coffee is a rich source of caffeine, which is common knowledge. Perhaps less commonly known is what caffeine does to our - [Book review: Eric Newby - Round Ireland in low gear](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/book-review-eric-newby-round-ireland-in-low-gear/) - This book was recommended to me as a detailed cycle touring book, with the added bonus of being about Ireland, somewhere I know little about, but would love to go cycle touring. Eric Newby was a journalist who published several travel guides, and apparently was asked to write the book. It was first published in - [Live-sharing your tour](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/live-sharing-your-tour/) - One of the best things about cycle touring is simply escaping the hustle and bustle of the world, while you're blissfully isolated from so much that may be happening in the world. This gives you the time to focus on the little things, that ultimately matter so much, like some wild flowers growing in a - [Register your bike](https://www.willcycle.com/police/register-your-bike/) - Bike theft is real, and growing, with thieves getting more audacious by the day. By and large, if your bike was stolen, you report it only to police to get the crime number that the insurance company will ask for, and you know police will most probably have no further involvement. Very occasionally, police catch - [ACAPS Dining Society](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/acaps-dining-society/) - Hear ye, hear ye, hear ye! You are hereby formally invited to the ACAPS - DS event! ACAPS, as you should know, is the abbreviation for the Adventure Cycling And Philatelic Society, while DS is the abbreviation for the ACAPS Dining Society. IMPORTANT: There is a dress code for all ACAPS DS events, and that - [SheCycles - Jane](https://www.willcycle.com/women/shecycles-jane/) - Yes, another SheCycles post! In case you still don't know, SheCycles is a series of posts about completely different women, each one amazing in her own way, telling us in their own words about how cycling fits into their lives, and what it means to them. Read all the other SheCycles posts, by clicking this link. - [This is outrageous!!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/this-is-outrageous/) - You're being played for a fool, and that's simply unacceptable! You have rights, you treat people right and you expect the same in return, and now they're doing this!!? No, this is simply indefensible, and yet, they keep doing it, and they keep getting away with it! At what point will it end? Having said - [The meaning of life](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/the-meaning-of-life/) - This won't be a a very deep post, and certainly not a spiritual one. Oh, and there's a very valid reason why this post has a pic of Lemmy! (Pic of Lemmy is from Wikipedia, under Creative Commons licence) I believe the meaning of life is far simpler than what most people realise. As a - [Slow](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/slow/) - Speed. It's exhilarating. Addictive, even. Exciting. Dangerous, too, of course, but that only makes it more exciting. I know. I've been there. My personal speed record on a bicycle (with 700c x 25 skinny wheels, while dressed only in Lycra) is 53mph (85kph), during a descent off Peak Hill, when riding a sportive called the - [When the Puncture Fairy visits...](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/when-the-puncture-fairy-visits/) - A surprising number of cyclists are quite superstitious in at least one aspect: they're so terrified of punctures that they won't even say the word, and I find that extremely amusing. I'm not superstitious at all, and have no misgivings about using the word puncture, nor referring to the Puncture Fairy. For the uninitiated, a - [Book Review: Pedal Power, by Anna Hughes](https://www.willcycle.com/book-review/book-review-pedal-power-by-anna-hughes/) - Pedal Power is a very unusual book, from the pen of the very talented Anna Hughes. I reviewed an earlier book of hers, Eat Sleep Cycle before. What makes this book unusual? It's non-fiction, but that's not unusual. The unusual part is it tells the stories of over 80 people who were pedal powered, and - [Is justice blind?](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/is-justice-blind/) - The vast majority of cyclists in the UK will tell you that the courts are exceedingly lenient towards drivers who endanger, or even injure or kill cyclists. Even when convicted, drivers regularly plead "exceptional hardship" and are therefore permitted to keep driving. At this stage, it's easy to get angry at the Crown Prosecution Service - [Book review - Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle, by Dervla Murphy](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/book-review-full-tilt-ireland-to-india-with-a-bicycle-by-dervla-murphy/) - In 1963, Europe had one of the coldest winters, and 1963, during winter, was when Dervla Murphy set off to cycle from her native Ireland to faraway India. Along the way, she kept a diary, and this book is the result of that diary. The world was a totally different place in 1963, as you'd - [Post-crash blues](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/post-crash-blues/) - Back in 2016, I was involved in a crash. Two weeks before the Dartmoor Classic sportive, I was probably fitter than at any other time in my life, and was comfortably confident of getting a gold medal. Cycling to work, as I did daily, I used to leave earlier, and take the longer route, treating - [Back to basics - Saddles](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/back-to-basics-saddles/) - A very common complaint about cycling is about pain or discomfort caused by the saddle. Let's get the obvious point out in the open right away: we are all different, and our bodies are different. What this means in practice is that a saddle that's extremely comfortable to you might be excruciating for me to - [The foreigner's guide to cycle-touring in the UK](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-foreigners-guide-to-cycle-touring-in-the-uk/) - Time for a tongue-in-cheek look at foreigners cycle touring in the UK. Now the UK is exquisitely beautiful and it's no wonder it receives so many tourists. The main island itself is small, and is little over 800 miles from end to end, making it perfect for cycle touring. Indeed, one of the most iconic of British rides is the End To End. This ride either starts in the south (Land's End) and finishes in the north (John O'Groats) when it's abbreviated as LEJOG, or it starts in the north and finishes in the south, when it's referred to as JOGLE. - [Preparing for a cycle tour](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/preparing-for-a-cycle-tour/) - How do you prepare for a cycle tour? How do you prepare yourself, so your cycle tour is pleasure, not punishment? No, this post will not turn into a detailed, structured training plan (though it does contain a link to a simplified training plan). If you were preparing to tackle the Hour record, I'd expect - [Facts and perceptions](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/facts-and-perceptions/) - There's a massive difference between fact and perception, but as a species, we mostly operate on perceptions. Add to the mix the fact that psychology teaches us that humans tend to first form an opinion, then look for reasons to support that opinion, and things can rapidly get messy. For many thousands of years, humans - [SheCycles - Nadine](https://www.willcycle.com/women/shecycles-nadine/) - In this latest SheCycles post, we hear from Nadine Ansorg - she's Nadine_Ansorg on Twitter, and you should definitely follow her. Nadine offers insight of being a woman who cycles, both in the UK and in Europe, especially Germany, where she's originally from. SheCycles is a growing series of posts in which a wide array - [LEJOGLE Relay](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/lejogle-relay/) - LEJOG is a British cycle touring rite of passage. It is short for Land's End - John O'Groats, and refers to cycling between the two destinations. Prevailing winds mean most people start at the bottom and cycle up, but a fair number cycle it in the opposite direction, when it's referred to as JOGLE. The - [There's a long, long trail a-winding...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/theres-a-long-long-trail-a-winding/) - A simple question: Which is the UK's longest traffic-free cycle path? The UK has quite a collection of traffic-free cycle paths. Some are better known than others, and some are far longer than others. Some have smooth tarred surfaces, while others have unsealed, and often muddy surfaces. Some are simply obviously better than others, but - [Money? You want money? Are you selling out?](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/money-you-want-money-are-you-selling-out/) - "Hey, Will, what's with T-shirts and route guides for sale on your site? Have you sold out?" I'm glad you asked - grab a pew and I'll explain. No, however much I might love it to, my site will never bring in much more than a small amount of pocket money. In fact, income from - [2021 in review](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/2021-in-review/) - 2020 was a bastard! There's no way of pretending it was anything else - so how did 2021 measure up? Obviously, '21 remained dominated by COVID, and as I'm writing this, upward of 146 000 people have died from COVID in the UK alone this year. Undoubtedly vaccine rollouts have massively reduced deaths, but as - [January 2022 Giveaway](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/january-2022-giveaway/) - We all like a freebie, don't we? Well, during 2022, I'm doing 12 freebies! That's right - I'm doing ONE T-shirt giveaway per month. How to enter Entering is simple, but requires a Twitter account. Just follow WillCycle on Twitter, then browse through the T-shirt designs available and pick your favourite. Next, click the link - [Snowdrops](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/snowdrops/) - Near where I live the daffodils - harbingers of spring to many people - often start blooming in mid-December, so they are clearly not a (locally) reliable indicator of when spring has started. And talking of spring, there are several different ways to interpret the seasons, including spring, of course, but I tend to go - [The 1st WillCycle Community Story](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-1st-willcycle-community-story/) - This will be a community-written story, and we will have 31 days to complete it. Here's how it works: I've written a short bit, to get the story started. YOUR job is to write the next part of the story, and add that as a comment. At the end of each day, or possibly very - [What is a touring bicycle?](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/what-is-a-touring-bicycle/) - The cycling industry isn't all noble, despite what the marketing might try and convince you of. Bicycle manufacturers are mainly large corporations, trading for profit, with dividend-hungry shareholders lining up, and it's in their best interest (but not yours and mine) to have as many different, cross-incompatible products as possible available. And yes, that extends - [The WillCycle Manifesto](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/the-willcycle-manifesto/) - All good organisations need a manifesto! Here's mine! Life is short. Dreams fade. Reality intrudes. Everyday drudgery saps the very essence from your soul. Your 9 to 5 life is not living, as such - it's merely existing. You wake up, get ready for work, go to work, work, go home, do some chores, watch - [New year, new you? Bollocks to that!](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/new-year-new-you-bollocks-to-that/) - Don't you find it ridiculous how you're expected to make New Year's resolutions, as if the difference between 31st of December and 1st of January is enormous? Regular gym users groan, as during January the gyms will be filled with people who all signed up for lengthy gym contracts, yet stop going to gym after a - [Damned Teezily!!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/damned-teezily/) - I am genuinely sorry, but I've had to pull the plug on the new T-shirt printer I recently moved to. They're called Teezily, and I am now of the opinion that they are scam artists. It started with one order inexplicably having been cancelled, and when I questioned them, their exact reply was "Unfortunately our - [Christmas](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/christmas/) - Peace on earth and goodwill to all mankind I make no secret of the fact that I'm not a big fan of Christmas. Sure, it's great for younger kids, although you do need to question the sincerity of a religious festival that involves - by default - lying to children: "Why, of course Father Christmas - [The death of wild-camping in the UK?](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/the-death-of-wild-camping-in-the-uk/) - Wild-camping, at least in England and Wales, is strictly speaking against the law, unless done with the explicit consent of the landowner. Here's where things immediately become murky: against the law is not the same as being a crime. In fact, under the law (at least in England and Wales) trespass is a civil offense, - [Cycloffee](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/cycloffee/) - Cycloffee is a challenge that will benefit both cyclists, and coffee shops. As is commonly known, cycling and coffee is a match made in heaven! The idea is to visit as many of the coffee shops as possible, and get your Caffeine Card stamped. Rules are simple: a visit to a coffee shop only counts if you cycled there, and obviously you can only get a single stamp per café. - [And suddenly you're free](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/and-suddenly-youre-free/) - It's the light that wakes you. Well, sometimes the birds, sometimes the weather and in my case, once a greenkeeper who started very early, but usually the light. Waking up under canvas is different to waking up at home. There's no sense of urgency, no rush, no dread for what the day may hold. The - [Genesis...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/genesis/) - ....well, at least for this blog. Been thinking about starting a blog for some time, and actually started one for a charity cycle ride I was organising. Still, I needed a blog for me, hence this one. What is it about, you ask? Why should it be about anything at all, is the answer. But - [Kit Review - Aeropress Go](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/kit-review-aeropress-go/) - Some things just belong together: Sampson & Dellilah, Cleopatra & Anthony, bread & butter, and of course, cycling & coffee. Cycling and coffee are a match made in heaven, as the number of cycling cafés can attest. In a perfect world, there will always be a great café, serving excellent coffee, right when you need - [Cycloffee - city edition](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/cycloffee-city-edition/) - Cycloffee is like a treasure hunt, but with coffee shops For full details of the original (and national) Cyclofee game, please read this post first. Not everyone will want, or be able to participate in a game that's deliberately spread across the whole UK, and from the outset I figured there'd be room for city-based - [SheCycles - Sara](https://www.willcycle.com/women/shecycles-sara/) - Time for another SheCycles post! This time, I get to introduce you to the incredible Sara - she's on Twitter as @SezRamos and on Instagram under the same name, so make sure you follow her. In case you still didn't know, SheCycles is a growing series of posts that highlight a bunch of completely different, - [New Devon Coast To Coast guide!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/new-devon-coast-to-coast-guide/) - I'm rather excited to share this with you! I've finished my Devon Coast To Coast guide, and it's available right now! I've known for a long time I should write a detailed guide, similar to the far shorter Drake's Trail guide on this blog, but covering the whole NCN 27 route. Several years ago I actually - [Devon and Cornwall Police Close Pass Initiative](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/devon-and-cornwall-police-close-pass-initiative/) - How I wish I was able to tell you that D & C Police had firm plans to implement West Mids Police's brilliant (and sorely needed!) Close Pass Initiative. Sadly, the reality is quite different, despite what many other sources may have told you. Here's how things currently stand: D & C Police have three - [The story of Darkmoor](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-story-of-darkmoor/) - The story of Darkmoor probably began when I landed a new job. In my previous job, I cycled to work, along well-lit roads, and only needed little LED lights to be seen. In the new job, however, I had to travel to, and between various customer sites, and therefore needed to drive to work. That - [Space for cycling](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/space-for-cycling/) - There is a cycling campaign called Space4Cycling, which was started by the London Cycling Campaign, but has since spread nationally. You can read full details of the LCC Space for Cycling campaign here: http://space4cycling.org/campaign-info Below I've copied part of the text found on the other side of the link above: "It follows directly from our - [Exmouth Exodus 2014](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/exmouth-exodus-2014/) - I'll admit it freely: I do like cycling in the dark and I do like through-the-night bike rides, so it's no wonder I signed up to ride the Exmouth Exodus.For those that don't know, the Exodus is a 108-mile ride that starts in Bath (it used to start in Bristol) and ends in Exmouth. It - [Pervasive bigotry](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/pervasive-bigotry/) - Some mindless individual, R Henshaw of Liskeard, Cornwall, saw fit to write the following letter to the Evening Herald, Plymouth's local newspaper: As ever, clicking the image will enlarge it on-screen, which should allow you to read it.For the benefit of those who can't clearly read the picture, I copied the text of the letter - [Darkmoor 2014](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/darkmoor-2014/) - Darkmoor is by its very nature unpredictable. It is a semi-organised bike ride over Dartmoor, through the night and there's NO registration. As a result, there is simply no way to know beforehand how many people will turn up. When Simon and I started talking about setting up Darkmoor, we deliberately wanted to emulate the - [New Year](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/new-year/) - I've always viewed the start of a new year not as an event to be celebrated zealously, but rather as simply moving forward by another day. As a result, I don't make grandiose resolutions and I don't ponder the past year too much. That also explains why this post wasn't posted at the start of - [One step forward, two steps back](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/one-step-forward-two-steps-back/) - From the eastern parts of Plymouth, short of taking a huge detour, there are almost only two routes into the city: Embankment Road, or Laira Bridge. This is true for cyclists as well as drivers. With very short notice, Plymouth City Council published notice of a new flood defense wall, funded by the Environment Agency, - [Darkmoor!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/darkmoor/) - No, I didn't mis-spell the title of this post. Darkmoor is the name of a new ride I'm organising. I've been inspired by the Dunwich Dynamo, which starts off in London and participants ride through the night to get to Dunwhich by dawn. I've been wanting to do the Dunwich Dynamo for some time now, - [My Tour of Britain Predicament](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/my-tour-of-britain-predicament/) - With great expectation I've been awaiting the route and dates announcement for the 2013 Tour of Britain.Last year, I cycled out to meet up with my friend Simon and his wife, after which we cycled out to Merrivale (a Devon stage King of the Mountains segment outside Princetown) and I was rather hopeful that the - [Speed freaks](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/speed-freaks/) - "No thanks, I need to take the car as it's far quicker""But it must take FOREVER to cycle there!""Cars are far quicker than cycling" Sounds like something you may have heard before? I bet it does! After all, cars can go stupidly fast and we all know that, don't we? So it must be obvious - [Dear Driver...](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/dear-driver/) - Dear Driver, Today, as I was cycling the 12 miles to work (yes, some people prefer to commute by bike - get over it) you drove past me. You may have been any one of the string of large 4x4 vehicles* that were way too important to slow down even a fraction, until it was - [Improvements](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/improvements/) - Back in September 2012 I blogged about on-going roadworks in Plymouth, which while essential, made things far worse for cyclists than what was necessary. I emailed Plymouth's Cycling Commisioner about this, with some suggestions of small changes that could have made things better for cyclists. She told me she'd put my suggestions to the relevant - [Roadrage!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/roadrage/) - On Tuesday, 23 October 2012, I was cycling along Embankment Road in Plymouth when I was overtaken by a Dial-a-Cab Plymouth taxi in a dangerous manner. Swearing under my breath, I let it slide, and further along, at the junction with Elliot Road, I filtered past the same Dial-a-Cab Plymouth mini-bus taxi (and some other vehicles) to get to - [The need to educate Plymouth City Council](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-need-to-educate-plymouth-city-council/) - As I've said many times to just about anybody willing to listen (or just within earshot, even if unwilling to listen!) my hometown of Plymouth has the potential to be absolutely fantastic.Situated on one of the most stunning bits of coastline in the world, it has so much to offer to residents and visitors alike. - [After the Dark Side Ride](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/after-the-dark-side-ride/) - Last night's Dark Side Ride was quite a break in format, in that it took place at a sensible hour, and the weather co-operated completely. The two previous rides took place during torrential downpours and gale-force winds driving the rain almost horizontally, so having a light breeze and perfectly clear skies was a very nice - [Is this the way to treat an Olympic hero?](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/is-this-the-way-to-treat-an-olympic-hero/) - Simon, the Olympic double gold medalist Simon Richardson is a cyclist, but no ordinary cyclist. Instead, he is a cyclist that has shown a remarkable tenacity to overcome enormous problems. In 2001, Simon was struck by a car that was being driven at 60mph. The impact of that crash broke his back in two places and - [Cycle Tourism is a ripe plum waiting to be picked...](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/cycle-tourism-is-a-ripe-plum-waiting-to-be-picked/) - There is a story which tells that for many years, there used to be sign above Picadilly Circus saying "Either exports go up, or Britain goes down". I'm no expert on London, and I've never seen the sign, but the sentiment is quite right. Regardless of what financiers and politicians may want you to believe, - [Nokia DC-14 Bicycle Charger](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/nokia-dc-14-bicycle-charger/) - UPDATE: The DC-14 has been discontinued for a long time. I have a more up-to-date post with other, better options. Almost exactly a year ago I posted about having fitted a Nokia DC-14 bicycle charger to my bike. There were, for me at least, many unknown factors, such as the surprisingly commonly held opinion that - [Plymouth fit for cycling](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/plymouth-fit-for-cycling/) - It's no secret that I'm a supporter of The Times' Cities Fit For Cycling (or CycleSafe for short) campaign - just look near the top right of my blog and you'll find the link. In light of this, I was very pleased when my home town of Plymouth finally formally expressed its support for the - [Noss Mayo peninsula](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/noss-mayo-peninsula/) - As a family man, my cycling often comes last on a lengthy list of priorities. This is a statement of fact, and not a complaint, and I've mentioned it as it ties in directly with this post. My youngest badly wanted to learn to ride a horse, so we signed her up for Pony Club - [Because you chose to wear a mini skirt!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/because-you-chose-to-wear-a-mini-skirt/) - Women the world over sometimes suffer enormously from rape, or the risk of rape - this is well known. What is less well know is how some women are made to suffer after having been raped. The fictitious conversation below puts it in context: This is the culture of victim blaming, but it isn't limited to rape - [The split personality syndrome](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-split-personality-syndrome/) - Spending some time going through the Plymouth.gov.uk site, I stumbled across some really good sections. For starters, there is the Cycling Journey Times page, which predictable enough shows you how long it would take an average cyclist to ride between various areas in the city, as seen below: I also stumbled onto the Plymouth City Council Cycling - [Gem Bridge is open!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/gem-bridge-is-open/) - I was told, via my Devon Coast to Coast cycling holidays site that Gem Bridge was open, as in fully open. This was on Saturday, and I immediately made plans to cycle out there, as Gem Bridge is only about 20 miles from my home.Now John Lennon wrote "life is what happens while you're busy - [International Relations](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/international-relations/) - On Saturday I went cycling with the specific plan to go and see for myself how Gem Bridge is coming along. Various things impacted on my plans, resulting in my only leaving home after 2 pm. As per usual, I was prepared with a large flask of coffee, tools, rain coat and a few other - [Devon Coast-to-Coast tours](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/devon-coast-to-coast-tours/) - I'm planning on offering fully escorted Devon Coast-to-Coast (C2C) tours along National Cycle Network route 27 (NCN 27) over two or three days, to small groups, or perhaps even individuals. Ilfracombe The tours will include overnight accommodation at selected B & B's along the way, as well as having all your luggage transferred each day - [NCN2 (a.k.a. the poor relation) in Plymouth](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/ncn2-a-k-a-the-poor-relation-in-plymouth/) - I was out cycling a day or two ago, going nowhere in particular. You know the type of ride: you simply get on your bike and go where the wind blows you.Anyway, as I was merrily cycling along NCN27 through the Saltram estate, I paid attention to a particular sign probably for the first time. - [A disappointing start](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/a-disappointing-start/) - I'd have loved to have the first post of 2012 to be some wonderful news, guaranteed to put a smile on anybody's face. Sadly this is not the case. I was looking into the whole debacle surrounding the proposed mountain bike paths that the National Trust aims to build at Plymbridge, when I stumbled across - [Just ride your bike!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/just-ride-your-bike/) - I've been either blessed, or cursed, with an inquisitive nature. Add to this a sense that all people essentially are (or should be!) equal and it becomes obvious that it is easy for me to support the Occupy movement, as well as their values of social justice. Taking things further, when looking at how cyclists are being - [The view from Gem Bridge](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-view-from-gem-bridge/) - Thought 'd post this photo as a teaser. It was taken from part of the deck that was being laid on top of the bridge and shows the 500-tonne crane dropping the main 35-tonne span in place. And before you ask, no, I wasn't fortunate enough to take this picture. It was sent to me - [NCN 2 in Plymouth](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/ncn-2-in-plymouth/) - I've posted several times before about NCN 27, which is also known as the Devon Coast to Coast route, and I have some detailed writings about parts of the route, specifically the Plym Valley Trail and Drake's Trail. However, there is a second NCN route through Plymouth: NCN 2. Here's what Sustrans has to say - [Devon Coast 2 Coast - in the bag, as they say!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/devon-coast-2-coast-in-the-bag-as-they-say/) - No, this isn't going to be a long, detailed write-up telling you about every little pebble along the way, but rather on overview. As you may know, I cycled the Devon Coast 2 Coast route (NCN 27) from lfracombe to Plymouth, over two days, to fundraise for Myeloma UK. They're a charity that focuses exclusively - [Amey and Plymouth CC both need a wake-up call](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/amey-and-plymouth-cc-both-need-a-wake-up-call/) - Yesterday I cycled to West Hoe park with my youngest, who wanted to go on the tag-along, as there are uphills her little legs don't like too much.When we eventually left the park, we decided to cycle up Hoe road, on Plymouth's foreshore. Hoe road is a one-way against us, but there is a contra-flow - [Grand Union Canal & Warwickshire & power problems!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/grand-union-canal-warwickshire-power-problems/) - I spent a couple of days in Warwick, and made good use of the time to cycle parts of the grand Union Canal, which links London and Birmingham. Living in Plymouth, I am not used to canals at all, and the fact that I was not cycling alongside a river was brought home to me when - [Gem Bridge - an OFFICIAL update!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/gem-bridge-an-official-update/) - I e-mailed West Devon Borough Council, asking for an update on Gem bridge, as well as Grenofen Tunnel and Ashmill bridge, and this is what I got by way of reply:"Devon County Council's aspiration is for the Grenofen Tunnel and Gem Bridge works to be completed, and the route open by late spring 2012. Given - [NCN27 - Barnstaple to Ilfracombe and back](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/ncn27-barnstaple-to-ilfracombe-and-back/) - Last Saturday I drove up to Barnstaple, specifically to cycle NCN27 to Ilfracombe and back. I parked up very close to the station, and discovered to my horror that I forgot my cycling shoes! I have clipless pedals on my bike, and without my cycling shoes I cannot attach to the pedals. A quick trip - [Why the Granite Way is better](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/why-the-granite-way-is-better/) - I love the Plym Valley Trail, and I love Drake's Trail, and I'm not afraid to admit it, but this post is about the Granite Way, and why I believe it's better. First, the iffy bits: From Lydford, the official route takes you via a roundabout way through Bridestowe onto the point where you cross - [NCN27 adventures](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/ncn27-adventures/) - I went cycling yesterday, not with any firm plans regarding the route other than perhaps cycling to Lydford and back, obviously trying to stick to NCN 27 as far as possible. As I've posted before, during the construction of Gem bridge, the "preferred" section of the route is closed, and will remain closed until at - [Eating at Sonya's has become an extreme activity](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/eating-at-sonyas-has-become-an-extreme-activity/) - I've posted before about Sonya's, a little coffee shop and restaurant in Yelverton. The decor isn't much - in fact, it's rather plain, but the staff are friendly, it has a good atmosphere, and the coffee & walnut cake is quite yummy.I cannot comment on the rest of the menu, as all I've ever had - [Drake's Trail - the future...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/drakes-trail-the-future/) - By now I expect you know about the new Gem Bridge being constructed over the Walkham valley, on the site of the old Grenofen viaduct Brunel had built. The new bridge is a superb idea that, once completed, will offer cyclists, walkers and wheelchair users a pleasant way to cross the valley. Crossing the Walkham - [Dark Side Ride - May 2011](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/dark-side-ride-may-2011/) - UPDATE on 21 May: The ride IS going ahead tonight. Some drizzle is expected, but no torrential downpours. Right, the date for the Dark Side Ride is (enter drum-roll here) 21/22 May 2011! What's that? What's a Dark Side Ride, you ask? Well, a Dark Side Ride is a leisurely bicycle ride on Dartmoor, at - [Critical Plymouth?](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/critical-plymouth/) - Together with two of my kids, I attended a Critical Mass ride in Plymouth today, and I must admit it was a bit of an eye-opener. No, not the ride itself, but rather what happens (cycling-related) in Plymouth. Recently-ish a new cycling forum was established in Plymouth. According to the minutes of their first meeting, - [Walkham viaduct on Drake's Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/walkham-viaduct-on-drakes-trail/) - Drake's Trail is part of NCN 27, and the Devon Coast-To-Coast trail, and links Yelverton with Tavistock. Overall it is a gorgeous cycle path, even though much of the surface isn't tarred, and it forms a natural extension to the Plym Valley cycle path that links Plymouth with Yelverton. As such, it means there is an - [The law is an ass](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-law-is-an-ass/) - This post is again a direct response to a post by Dave Moulton. Dave makes a valid point that the law is the law, and that it shouldn't be for ordinary people to choose whether or not they obey any given law, or not. After all, what would civilisation as we know it be like - [Old posters](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/old-posters/) - At Whitsand Bay, just outside Plymouth and across the Tamar in Cornwall, there is a little holiday resort where you can rent chalets, or pitch a tent. In the shop there are a few old bicycle posters, so I snapped a few photos (amidst bizarre looks from the lady behind the cash register!).Here they are: These - [The Daily Mail....AGAIN](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-daily-mail-again/) - There is this recurring theme through Daily Mail articles: cycling is bad and cyclists should be burned at the stake. OK, they don't actually say that in as many words, but with that idiot James Martin bragging about running cyclists off the road and other anti-cycling rants regularly appearing, they're not far from it. The - [3 feet to pass](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/3-feet-to-pass/) - Tom Amos started a petition on NR10's web site, and called it 3feet2pass. I signed the petition, as did a disappointing 2 600 others.What is important here is not the numbers, but rather the response. The Government's response starts off by stating they will do nothing about the situation. It then continues with little gems like - [Is it or isn't it? Does the question actually matter?](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/is-it-or-isnt-it-does-the-question-actually-matter/) - With Copenhagen in full swing, and headlines all over reporting what progress (or lack thereof) is being made on reaching a global climate change deal, other things are happening. For starters, Denmark is full of German police vehicles (now THAT must trigger some unhappy memories!) as apparently they don't have enough of their own. Whether - [Idle ramblings](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/idle-ramblings/) - I have a very busy mind - it's chaotic at times - and I've long known that cycling calms my mind, especially longer bike rides. It is for this reason I prefer to cycle outside - I ride for the pure enjoyment of it first, then for transport or leisure, and lastly for training. There's - [Sorry](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/sorry/) - Dear Kids, I'm sorry. I have failed you. As a dad, my job is to try and make your lives as safe, secure, stable, happy and good as I can. I've tried to be a good role model (even if I can be a tad grumpy at times, and despite having worked WAY too long - [Dynamo update](https://www.willcycle.com/tech/dynamo-update/) - Several months ago I finally got round to rebuilding my bike's front wheel around a Shimano hub dynamo and I fitted a dynamo front light. I've had a crash in May 2016, which injured my spine in three places, damaged my left thigh and left shoulder and resulted in a torn right calf muscle. As - [Just go for a ride](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/just-go-for-a-ride/) - There is a German word, weltschmerz (literally world pain or world grief) that roughly translates as a general feeling of gloom with regards to life overall, and weltschmerz sometimes perfectly describes how I feel when I've been overwhelmed with negative things. In life, we magnify what we focus on, and it is a sad side effect - [Folder!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/folder/) - Yes indeed! I got myself a folder. It belonged to a friend, who had it for a number of years, though only ever used it for a few short rides. She wanted to get rid of it, so for a small payment I gained a folding bike. The brand name is Airwalk - I've never - [Mojo](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/mojo/) - I had a crash just over two years ago. A driver suddenly turned in front of me from a side road, without stopping, and I crashed into the back of her car. I ended up with a spine injured in three places, a severely bruised left thigh, an injured left shoulder and a torn right - [Lockdown Lacklustre](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/lockdown-lacklustre/) - COVID19 turned the world upside down - that's an indisputable fact. It's a horrid disease, and many thousands have died from it, with more still apparently suffering long-term health affects, after having survived it. As I write this, I'm aware of how lucky I am in not having had the illness, nor having anyone close - [Back To Basics - How to carry luggage on a bike](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/back-to-basics-how-to-carry-luggage-on-a-bike/) - There are different reasons for carrying luggage on the bike, ranging from commuting, to shopping and touring. Obviously, cargo bikes are an option, as are trailers, but in this post I want to focus on luggage being carried on a "normal" bike. When I first started cycle commuting, I simply carried a backpack, and indeed, - [Santa Ride](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/santa-ride/) - "What's a Santa Ride?" I hear you ask. Well, gather round, and listen carefully... T'was the night before Christmas... Well, no, it wasn't. It was many months before Christmas when I realised that being stuck in hospital over Christmas is pretty rubbish, and even more so if you're a kid. Now, while we can't wave - [A Redlake Ride](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/a-redlake-ride/) - I've posted about Redlake before - it's out on Dartmoor, and there's a disused china clay mine, which left behind three things of note: a large spoil heap, a pit that's long-since filled with water, forming a pond, and the remains on what used to be an old railway track. The name predates the mine, - [Just ride for the sake of riding](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/just-ride-for-the-sake-of-riding/) - We live in the Information Age. Most people don't seem to realise that information consumes time. In fact, it has a voracious appetite for devouring whatever time you may have. In this Information Age, we've become accustomed, even addicted, to living in an always-on, always-connected world. Don't believe me? Try leaving your phone switched off - [But I need to drive...](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/but-i-need-to-drive/) - Have a conversation with the vast majority of people, and you will very soon hear how everyone needs their car. You will be told detailed stories of how they use their cars to collect fridges, couches and more. So much so that I wouldn't at all be surprised if someone claimed they used their car to - [The *&|$**! bicycle industry!](https://www.willcycle.com/tech/the-bicycle-industry/) - Bikes are great! They're the most efficient form of transport ever invented by humanity, they're good for the environment, they're good for your health, and they put a smile on your face. Bikes are simple machines, and that's one of their strongest benefits. However, the sodding bicycle industry seems totally determined to overcomplicate things as - [Looking forward](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/looking-forward/) - We live in the Information Age, and most of us have instantly-available information at our fingertips, courtesy of the Internet. We also have more information available to us now than ever before, yet it seems we chose to primarily use the Internet to spread doom and gloom, with the occasional cute kitten video to lighten - [My Astra Zeneca experience](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/my-astra-zeneca-experience/) - There're some benefit to being middle-aged (besides not having to carry photo-ID when buying age-restricted products) and one of those benefits include me having had my first COVID vaccination on Sunday. Yes, this post is all about my vaccine experience - not because I'm in any way important (I absolutely am not) but rather in - [DayCycle - Bere Ferers Loop - stunning views over 2 rivers, along an 8-mile, hilly route](https://www.willcycle.com/daycycle/daycycle-bere-ferers-loop-stunning-views-over-2-rivers-along-an-8-mile-hilly-route/) - 7.9 miles, hilly, on rural green lanes with very little traffic, but shared with cars Bere Ferrers is essentially situated on near-enough a pensinsula, cradled between the Tavy and Tamar rivers. This cycle route is a true hidden gem, and offers some spectacular views. By car, getting to the start is quite a trek along - [Back to basics - Let there be light](https://www.willcycle.com/tech/back-to-basics-let-there-be-light/) - I'm a huge fan of cycling in the dark, which is just as well, as almost half the year most cycle commuters cycle in the dark both ways. There's something completely different about cycling in your personal bubble of light, along otherwise totally dark roads, and I rather strongly feel this is something everyone should - [Frazer's Tour - Part 1](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/frazers-tour-part-1/) - This guest post is by Frazer Goodwin - he's on Twitter as @FrazerGoodwin and you really should follow him. Frazer is English, but lives in Belgium. Enough from me, I'll hand over to Frazer now. Part One "Aren’t you too old to travel that far on a bike?" It’s a question I’ve been asked by - [Frazer's Tour - Part 2](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/frazers-tour-part-2/) - This is Part 2 of Frazer Goodwin's 3-part guest blog about his 1 400km ride from Belgium to Sweden. If you haven't yet, I suggest you read Part 1 first. Part 2 I finally completed a bike ride in the summer I’ve been thinking about and planning for years – riding from my home in - [Frazer's Tour - Part 3](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/frazers-tour-part-3/) - This is the last instalment of Frazer Goodwin's guest posts, in which he recounts his adventurous 1 400km ride from Belgium to Sweden, and his return to Belgium. If you haven't already done so, I suggest you read Part first, then read Part 2. Part 3 This summer I managed to cycle from Brussels to - [Kit review: Vango Compact Gas Stove](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/kit-review-vango-compact-gas-stove/) - The Vango Compact Gas Stove is really rather good, with only three negatives. First though, what makes it so good: for starters, it's tiny. It comes in a hard plastic case, and screws directly onto a gas cannister. The three supports for whatever you place on the stove fold up, to fit inside the plastic - [Food for thought](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/food-for-thought/) - Writing about food always feels somewhat uncomfortable to me, as I'm not a foodie. Much like you shouldn't trust a skinny chef, I suppose you need to be sceptical of taking food advice from me. Well, to a point. You see, sooner or later - especially when touring - you'll stop caring (or at least - [Darkmoor - the finale](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/darkmoor-the-finale/) - Back in 2012, I heard about the Dunwich Dynamo for the first time. In case you didn't know, the Dynamo is an all-night bike ride, from London, to a tiny hamlet called Dunwich, in Suffolk. With my kids still being young at the time, there was no chance of me doing that ride, but I - [SheCycles - Annie Cohen Kopchovsky](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/shecycles-annie-cohen-kopchovsky/) - Cycling, if cycling media, events and companies are to be believed, is a man's game. Obviously, that perception is absolutely wrong - after all, cycling was central to the emancipation of women - but sadly that's a perception that persists in so many people's lives. Susan B Anthony, a suffragette, said it best: “I think it - [SheCycles - Helen Langridge](https://www.willcycle.com/women/shecycles-helen-langridge/) - SheCycles is a series of posts in which I ask women some questions, and I post their responses. All women are asked the same questions, and are obviously free to answer as much, or as little, as the please. The very first SheCycles was about Annie Kopchovsky , who was the first woman to travel - [SheCycles - Uni](https://www.willcycle.com/women/shecycles-uni/) - In this latest SheCycles post, we hear from Uni, in her own words, about what it's like to be a cyclist and a woman. If you're unfamiliar with SheCycles posts, I suggest you read them all, simply by clicking this link. Let me hand you over to Uni: I’m strictly a weekend warrior and - [Cycle camping with kids](https://www.willcycle.com/camping/cycle-camping-with-kids/) - I got back into cycling because of my kids. When my eldest two were old enough, we got them bikes and I taught them to ride. They would ride up and down the pavement, and regularly I'd take them to the local park, a block or two away, but soon enough they were getting bored, - [Cycle touring in your 50s](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/cycle-touring-in-your-50s/) - Society places these ridiculous expectations on us, and of course we have expectations of our own. I've met people who, when in their 30s, couldn't sit cross-legged on the ground anymore, because they believed grown-ups don't do that, so they stopped. They'd stopped for so long, their legs have become too inflexible. Isn't that just - [Footloose](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/footloose/) - People often ask which clip-in system is the best, and the only correct answer is this: it depends. I freely admit to being biased here - I ride with SPD pedals, and SPD shoes, not because I think SPDs are the best, but because I think it's the best compromise for me. Your needs, your - [As the light dawns](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/as-the-light-dawns/) - You open your eyes, not quite sure what time it is, and not bothered by it, either. You know it's still early, so you lie there for a bit, looking at the tent above you, and listening to the sounds outside. The light breeze whispering through the nearby trees, the verbal battles fought by songbirds. - [Where the wild places are](https://www.willcycle.com/better-world/where-the-wild-places-are/) - Your ancestors walked great distances. They hunted or foraged for food, and mainly slept on the ground. Unless under shelter, if it rained, they got wet. When it snowed, they continued with life. They faced great danger on a regular basis, ranging from marauders, to wild animals, to infection from a simple cut. And mostly, - ["Influencer"](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/influencer/) - I'm highly sceptical about the entire "influencer" cottage industry. If you claim to be an "influencer", what I'm hearing is that your opinion is for sale, and at that point, I've lost all respect for you, and you've lost all credibility in my mind. I'm most certainly NOT an "influencer"! What you will get from me - [Touring in a connected world](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-touring/touring-in-a-connected-world/) - Some cycle tourers I greatly admire, including Dervla Murphy and John Devoy, are very clear in their derision of taking tech along when cycle touring.That's OK - what makes the world such a fantastic place is the fact that we're all different, with different views and opinions. I'm just about a digital native, having been - [Back to basics - bicycle pedals](https://www.willcycle.com/back-to-basics/back-to-basics-bicycle-pedals/) - Bicycle pedals are ridiculously important, and not important at all, all at the same time. The pedals are the interface through which your feet apply the power needed to propel the bike forward. They're important, because without pedals, you won't be going anywhere, and they're not important, because when done right, you will hardly - [Consequences](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/consequences/) - There's a basic principle that states we are all free to make our own choices, but we are not free from the consequences of the choices we had made. Sometimes, the consequences are immediate: you're in a crowded pub, walk up to the biggest, meanest, toughest guy there, and you slap him. Yes, you are - [Devon and Cornwall Police - Operation Closepass](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/devon-and-cornwall-police-operation-closepass/) - After much anticipation, the day finally arrived on which D & C Police would launch their Operation Closepass! For those unfamiliar with this, it is a method of roads policing pioneered by the West Mids Police Roads Policing Unit, and basically involves a cop, in plain clothes, riding a bicycle up and down a stretch - [Darkmoor 2017](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/darkmoor-2017/) - After what seemed forever, Darkmoor 2017 finally arrived, and everything was looking good. Even the weather was cooperating, with very light, broken cloud cover, mild temperature and little to no wind.As per usual, I was early at Cap'n Jaspers, feeling slightly apprehensive and hoping at least one other person would be crazy enough to join - [Police Lottery](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/police-lottery/) - This is a story of a lottery. No, not that national lottery, but a post code lottery. Specifically, a post code lottery in which where you live determines whether or not, as a cyclist, you can expect to receive any justice from police. If you live in Devon or Cornwall you're bang out of luck, - [There's a long, long road a-winding...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/theres-a-long-long-road-a-winding/) - Sometimes I despair when I realise how far we still have to go to get safe cycling conditions. On the 11th of October, a man called Quentin Willson posted the following tweet on Twitter: Great new cycle lane but where are the cyclists? pic.twitter.com/a1vhAAXxt2 — Quentin Willson (@QuentinWillson) October 10, 2016 The picture is of - [Staying alive](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/staying-alive/) - Now you have the Bee Gees singing Staying Alive in the back of your mind, let's look at perhaps extending that philosophy to cycling. Broadly speaking, and with many exceptions, cyclists tend to be split between the Vehicular Cycling (VC) crowd, and the Segregation bunch, and a great many epic online battles of words were - [Exmouth Exodus 2016](https://www.willcycle.com/adventure/exmouth-exodus-2016/) - The Exmouth Exodus was started as either an alternative or an addition to the Dunwich Dynamo, with the Dun being the original through-the-night bike ride. I've only cycled the Exodus once before, back in 2014. In 2015 life got in the way, so I was determined to ride it again in 2016. Towards the end - [New bike!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/new-bike/) - Well, not brand new anymore - I've had it for a a number of weeks now, but I wanted to hold off for a while before expressing my opinion.I am mostly a commuter. Yes, I ride for fun and enjoyment, and yes, I do the occasional sportive, but the vast majority of miles I do - [Darkmoor 2016 - at a crossroads](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/darkmoor-2016-at-a-crossroads/) - There are three big rides I look forward to all year: Darkmoor, the Dartmoor Classic and the Exmouth Exodus. The wily amongst you will have noticed that two of those are through-the-night rides, and I suppose that says a great deal about me, though what exactly it says I have no idea. Darkmoor was different - [But there's a lovely new bridge for cyclists there, so why do you ride on the road?](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/but-theres-a-lovely-new-bridge-for-cyclists-there-so-why-do-you-ride-on-the-road/) - The city of Plymouth is hemmed in by two rivers - to the west is the Tamar, which also forms the border with neighbouring Cornwall, while to the east is the Plym, which gave the city its name. Rivers are great, but they sure mess with transport links and the main bridges over the Plym - [It all started innocently enough...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/it-all-started-innocently-enough/) - On Twitter, Inspector David George (@MPSHillingWest) tweeted the following message:"Goodness me!! Just driven into work and within 6 miles I counted 17 cyclists jumping reds. Targeted operation required !! Cyclist watch out" Now on the surface, that tweet seems perfectly fine. After all, this is a police officer, whose job it is to enforce the - [Wiggle - best avoided](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/wiggle-best-avoided/) - I do roughly around 7 000 miles per year on my bike, with my main bike up to very recently having been a B'Twin Triban 500. My commute's 15 miles each way, unless I have time and take the long way, which I do from time to time. Sometimes I take the shortest route, in - [B'Twin Triban 500](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/btwin-triban-500/) - My first ever road bike was a B'Twin Triban 3, the red model, and I was very impressed by it. So much so, that little over a year later, when I got another bike, I ordered the Triban 500, again from Decathlon. Now you may ask yourself why, if the Triban 3 impressed me that - [The Hill](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-hill/) - Gasp. Pant. Feel the burn. Feel the burn. Hills. Many cyclists hate them, and I'll admit I never used to like them. I don't know if ever there was an exact moment when things changed, but I do now know is that they did change for me. That change was subtle, but massive. I used - [Police Focus](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/police-focus/) - Police perform an extremely valuable and often dangerous job. I have long been of the opinion that without police, civilised society as know it would incredibly quickly descend into total chaos. That's quite bit more responsibility than simply ensuring end users can send email, which just happens to be one of my many responsibilities at - [A tale of hope](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/a-tale-of-hope/) - On the eatern edge of Plymouth a new town is being built. It's called Sherford, and eventually it will contain 7 000 new houses, a few schools, shops and more. Naturally this will generate a rather large volume of new traffic and various bits of road around the area are being upgraded or changed. This - [New wheel](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/new-wheel/) - As regular followers will know, I ride a B'Twin Triban 500 road bike. B'Twin is the house brand of French chain Decathlon and while it's a cheap bike, overall I'm very happy with it. Besides, it seems to climb hills better than a few hideously expensive carbon-framed bikes I've encountered out on the road. Nudge, - [Dartmoor Classic 2015](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/dartmoor-classic-2015/) - I cycled the Dartmoor Classic for the second time this year, having entered it in 2014 with my friend Simon as the first ever sportive either of us had done. This year Simon didn't enter due to a jealousy-inducing French cycling trip that almost overlaps the Classic and involves riding up bloody big mountains, so - [Tour of Devon and some chance encounters](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/tour-of-devon-and-some-chance-encounters/) - As we usually do, my mate Simon and I planned on cycling out to go and watch the Tour of Britain's Devon stage, which this year was on the 11th of September 2014. I cycled into Plymouth at first, and in Yealmpton I bumped into Denis, who like me also cycle commutes. This was an - [Dartmoor Classic 2014](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/dartmoor-classic-2014/) - Over a year ago, my friend Simon and I decided to sign up for the Dartmoor Classic. Now the Classic is classified as a Sportive, and not a race, and for good reason, too: if it was a race, seeing as it's held on public roads, loads more restrictions and regulations come into play. Now - [Blah, blah, blah...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/blah-blah-blah/) - Politicians so love the sound of their own voices! Sometimes they drone on endlessly, hardly ever saying anything at all, and we, every single one of us, to some degree or the other are guilty of letting them get away with it. Politicians have devolved into quite a different sub-species, often unable or unwilling to - [Frankenwheel](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/frankenwheel/) - I do a fair few miles per week, averaging around 160 miles, with most of those done on rural lanes. Now some lanes are quite good, but others are in shocking condition. All rural lanes are often debris-strewn, especially in winter. As a daily cycle commuter, cycling to work and back in winter, more often - [Vicks Vapourhub](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/vicks-vapourhub/) - Last year I did a little over 5 500 miles of cycling, most of it with laden panniers on my bike. I ride a B'Twin Triban 3 road bike, which (although the frame offers anchor points for a rack) was never really designed for heavy-mileage, weight-laden commutes over often bumpy and poorly-kept country lanes. In - [To the brink](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/to-the-brink/) - The city of Plymouth is mostly situated between the rivers Tamar and Plym, and as anybody with just a moderate degree of intelligence would gladly tell you, rivers tend to be disruptive to roads.To cross the Tamar, drivers can choose between the Torpoint Ferry, the Tamar Bridge, or a very long detour via Tavistock.To cross - [Quick moves by Plymouth City Council](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/quick-moves-by-plymouth-city-council/) - No, South West Water (SWW), this is NOT how you do things! On Billacombe Road in Plymouth, South West Water are doing works to install a new water main pipe. This is essential work and disruption to road traffic is inevitable. In parts, the pavement had to be dug up, and the footway was therefore - [Simple Pleasures](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/simple-pleasures/) - Lately I've taken to cycling on Saturday mornings with a group called the Yealm Roleurs. The ride normally starts at the Yealmpton post office at 08h00 and the starting point is a fair few miles from home. This Saturday I was running a bit late, so I didn't check my phone, other than to start - [Birthday](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/birthday/) - It's that time of year again where my birthday comes around. To be honest, I've never really made much of a song and dance about my birthday, nor have I expected or really even wanted others to do so. After all, it isn't like an analogue counter that suddenly clicks forward by one unit of - [Yealm Rouleurs, old aquaintances and new friends](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/yealm-rouleurs-old-aquaintances-and-new-friends/) - Quite some time ago I was playing around with maps, looking to see if there was a half-decent route along rural lanes that I could take to avoid cycling on the rather unpleasant and busy A379. The route I found led me up a very nasty little lane, potholed, half overgrown and debris strewn. As - [Dealing with the Hurt](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/dealing-with-the-hurt/) - I'm a cycling commuter and my commute is 12 miles each way, unless I take the long way round. This means I typically do around 120 miles per week just cycling to work and back. I have some rather steep hills on my commute and all truth be told, there are days when I really - [B'Twin Triban 3](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/btwin-triban-3/) - Back in January 2013 I got a new B'Twin Triban 3 road bike. I'll not bore you with the build-up into buying this particular bike, though I will point out that I was swayed above all else by four factors:1) My friend Simon had one and he was very happy with it2) I found several - [Tour of Britain 2013 - the Devon Stage](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/tour-of-britain-2013-the-devon-stage/) - Just to pre-warn you, this post deals more with getting to and from the Tour of Britain than the event itself. Last year (2012) I cycled out to Merrivale with my friend Simon and his wife, to go see the Tour of Britain. Merrivale is a hill between Princetown and Tavistock, on Dartmoor, and is - [Green shoots](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/green-shoots/) - Sadly I've blogged quite a number of times about how Plymouth City Council got things wrong when it comes to cycling. As an organisation, I believe they are institutionally anti-cycling and that belief still holds true. Except perhaps not as strongly as before. No, I'm not being blackmailed, bribed or otherwise coerced by Plymouth City - [Brixton - Yealmpton path revisited](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/brixton-yealmpton-path-revisited/) - Recently I blogged about the new path linking the villages of Yealmpton & Brixton and I pointed out the positives of such a path. Before it was built, walking between the two villages was a nighmare, despite them being only a shortish distance apart. This is because you would either have had to walk on - [The Century that never was](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-century-that-never-was/) - There are some milestones in a cyclist's life that, while of absolutely no importance to anybody else, nevertheless can be looked upon as something special by the cyclist that accomplished them.One such milestone is a Century ride, or put more simply, to cycle 100 miles or more pretty much in one go. Now some people - [An open letter to Tudor Evans, leader of Plymouth City Council](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/an-open-letter-to-tudor-evans-leader-of-plymouth-city-council/) - Dear Tudor Evans, On Monday, 22 July 2013, while cycling along Billacombe Road in the late afternoon, I found the cycle lane was blocked by roadworks warning signs, as you can see in the photo below: I tweeted @PlymouthCC the photo, asking why the signs were placed in such a manner that they completely blocked - [Plymouth City Council are up to old tricks again...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/plymouth-city-council-are-up-to-old-tricks-again/) - If you were in the middle of Plymouth and wanted to cycle to the eastern edge of the city, chances are you'll find yourself cycling along Billacombe Road. Now Billacombe Road is a bit of an enigma - it was built as a dual carriageway but at some point in the past one lane has - [Brixton - Yealmpton Cycle Path](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/brixton-yealmpton-cycle-path/) - There's a brand-new cycle path being built alongside the busy, but narrow A379, between the two villages of Brixton and Yealmpton, just to the East of Plymouth. This takes in part of my commute, and especially lately I've had a great many close overtakes at speed along that road. Being in Devon, the road is - [Bike-Rail](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/bike-rail/) - Liskeard Station I regularly need to travel to Truro, Liskeard, Bristol or Newquay for work. Seeing as I've sold my car and my bicycle's my main form of transport, this means I take the train often and I typically take my bike on the train. From Plymouth, effectively the greatest majority of trains will be - [Perfume!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/perfume/) - There's an old saying (that I've used on here before) that goes like this: If you do what you've always done, you'll get what you always got. This is an absolute truth in so many different aspects of life, with cycling advocacy somewhere near the top. See, for years, decades even, cycling advocacy has taken - [Plymouth City Council discriminates against cyclists](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/plymouth-city-council-discriminates-against-cyclists/) - Some time ago I posted about some really iffy road "features" put in place in Devonport, Plymouth.Basically, the roads have many cobbled strips inserted that span the full width of the carriageway. The gap between the cobbles is in places well over an two inches, and in places perhaps of that depth, too. This doesn't show - [NCN27? Here? I don't think so!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/ncn27-here-i-dont-think-so/) - In Devonport, Plymouth, I recently came across this sign: This is on the corner of New Passage Hill and St Aubyn Road and clearly shows the route to be signed as NCN27. Now NCN27 is the Devon Coast to Coast route that runs between Ilfracombe and Plymouth, but that ends at Millbay Docks in Plymouth, - [NCN3 - Truro, Cornwall](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/ncn3-truro-cornwall/) - I love Cornwall. It is a simply gorgeous county with stunning scenery and friendly people. Cornwall is home to the Camel Trail, and has many more traffic-free cycling routes. There is a downside to Cornwall (aside from the roads that don't skirt hills, but instead perform a full frontal attack, up-and-over, every time) and that - [Your council is failing you](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/your-council-is-failing-you/) - The title of this post may seem harsh, but it is nonetheless a fair and accurate description of the reality cyclists find themselves in. This taxi driver came too close to CycleGaz Spend five minutes talking to any cyclist that regularly rides on the road and chances are they'll tell you about near-misses and other run-ins they've - [Rebuilding my hybrid](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/rebuilding-my-hybrid/) - Since getting my new bike I haven't ridden my hybrid even once. This isn't because I don't like it, but rather because it actually needs quite a bit of work. My hybrid, aka The Trusty Steed So this had me thinking - perhaps I should rebuild it completely. It's a Raleigh Pioneer, strong enough to - [Losing my bearings](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/losing-my-bearings/) - I've been annoyed for a while now by a clunking noise my bike was making. It's a new bike and I got it in January, but I have already put 1000 miles on it, mostly commuting but with several leisurely rides thrown in for good measure. It sounded like it was coming from the chainrings - [Crash!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/crash/) - OK, so it was well overdue. Yes, I came off my bike, something I hadn't done for years. Now I'd love to be able to say that it was during a race, or perhaps while doing some trick riding (I do ALL my own stunts, you know) but the reality is far more mundane:I clipped - [Dear Police...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/dear-police/) - Dear Police, Like most people, I admire you for the often tough job you do and I understand that you are under-resourced, and your budgets are being squeezed from all sides. Yet despite this, you continue to do the job, and I'd like you to know we're grateful for that. Since they were small, I've - [Cycle Routes](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/cycle-routes/) - A good cycle route is one that goes somewhere people want or need to go. That's a very simple concept to understand, but apparently some people have trouble with it. On NCN27, between Yelverton and Tavistock, lies the hamlet of Grenofen. Once, before Grenofen Tunnel was re-opened as a cycle route, NCN27 skirted the edge - [British Cycling Ride Leader](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/british-cycling-ride-leader/) - Yes, indeedy - I am now a British Cycling Ride Leader. Well, all truth be told, I'm an assistant Ride Leader as I don't yet hold a valid first aid certificate. Once I have the first aid certificate, I'll be auto-promoted to full Ride Leader. I attended a one-day training course yesterday in Plymouth, along with 9 - [A broken law is no law at all](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/a-broken-law-is-no-law-at-all/) - In the UK we have Advanced Stop Lines (ASLs) at many traffic lights. Some people call these the "cyclist's box". Rule 178 of the Highway Code says this about ASLs:"Advanced stop lines. Some signal-controlled junctions have advanced stop lines to allow cycles to be positioned ahead of other traffic.Motorists, including motorcyclists, MUST stop at the - [The hill is not in the way, the hill is the way](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-hill-is-not-in-the-way-the-hill-is-the-way/) - Plymbridge Road, going towards Plympton* Somebody far wiser than me once said the hill is not in the way, the hill IS the way. (If you know who to attribute this to, please let me know?) On my new commute I have a fair few hills, which reminded me of this thought. See, we can - [Not Your Typical Ride Report](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/not-your-typical-ride-report/) - I'm an experienced cyclist, aren't I? After all, I ride confidently in heavy traffic, and I ride thousands of miles every year, I know my Highway Code, my commute is 12 miles one way and I'll often go out on my bike for a whole day's riding. And yet, I feel like a complete novice! - [New Bike!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/new-bike-2/) - Woohoo! After quite some time I have finally taken receipt of my new bike. It's a B'Twin Triban 3, which you may or may not know, is an entry-level road bike. I decided to get a new bike through Cyclescheme as there were clear savings to be made. Fortunately my employers are very cycle-friendly (our - [Who dreamt this up?](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/who-dreamt-this-up/) - This is a picture of a road. Not just any old road, but a newly(ish) surfaced road in a newly regenerated old neighbourhood in Plymouth. Specifically, this is Ker Street in Devonport. The architects clearly tried to retain a link to the charming past of the area, a past that is reflected in the many - [My new commute](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/my-new-commute/) - I used to commute around 4 miles each way to work, with Devonport Hill being the nearest to a "proper" uphill along the route. In my previous job my commute took in Greenbank Road, from Cattedown Roundabout to Mutley Plain, and Ham Lane, which has a 15% incline, so Devonport Hill (as far as I'm - [Shortchanged](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/shortchanged/) - I recently submitted a Freedom of Information request to Plymouth City Council, asking several different things. Some of the questions I asked were: What is the actual amount the council spends annually on building and maintaining roads, for the past four years? What is the actual amount the council spends annually on building and maintaining - [The more things change...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-more-things-change/) - I recently moved, and as you can imagine, it was very hectic leading up to the day, and has been rather busy since.It was with some sense of sadness I said goodbye to the house where I've lived for the past 9 years. That's the longest I've ever lived anywhere, and until we moved, my - [Gritting!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/gritting/) - Winter is sneaking up on us, and it won't be long before we have ice on pavements and cycle paths. Obviously we won't have ice on most roads, as roads actually are gritted by the respective councils. In Plymouth, I want to set up a cycle gritter, which would basically mean a trailer towed behind - [Dark Side Ride - short notice!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/dark-side-ride-short-notice/) - This Saturday, starting at around 20h15, we're having another Dark Side Ride. For those that don't know, a Dark Side Ride is a bicycle ride in darkness. Previous rides all had a common theme: lashing down with rain and gale force winds. As a result, at my friend Simon's insistence, I wasn't allowed to pick - [A slightly unusual ride](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/a-slightly-unusual-ride/) - On Sunday I took the chance of cycling out to Yelverton and back again. There's nothing unusual about that - in fact, I do that regularly, yet today's ride was slightly out of the ordinary for several reasons, as I'll explain in a minute. I would've liked to have gone further, but other, and more - [Tour of Britain](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/tour-of-britain/) - On the 15th of September I cycled out to Yelverton, where my friend Simon lives. The Tour of Britain's Devon stage was taking place on the day, and we had a cunning plan to ride out to Merrivale (a King of the Mountains stage) to watch the riders go by, and return to Yelverton via - [Plymouth STILL doesn't get cycling!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/plymouth-still-doesnt-get-cycling/) - There are new roadworks in Plymouth, at the junction of Laira Bridge Road and Finnigan Road, as well as on Laira Bridge itself. This is part of a larger, ongoing project to improve traffic flow (for motorised vehicles!) to and from the eastern side of Plymouth.The big picture is that a new town, Sherbourne, will - [And it's open!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/and-its-open/) - Yep, Ashmill bridge has been opened, which means the whole new section of NCN27, from Tavistock to Gem Bridge is open, and going by this morning's experience, it's rather popular! I lost count of the number of cyclists I saw. The really good thing is it included many very young cyclists, and many quite old - [Just a ride](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/just-a-ride/) - Having been on leave, I went out for a ride last Thursday, with the rough idea of heading out towards Tavistock, via Yelverton. First though, I had to drop a letter off near the river Tamar, which is pretty much on the other side of Plymouth, from my house.After having delivered the letter, I set - [Grenofen Tunnel](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/grenofen-tunnel/) - Recently I took the opportunity to go and see for myself what progress has been made with the cycle path through Grenofen tunnel, which will be the new route for NCN 27. To complete the path from Gem Bridge to Tavistock, a few things still needed doing: 1) The path from near the end of - [Velodyssee](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/velodyssee/) - Haven't you heard? Devon Coast-to-Coast, a.k.a. NCN27 has a brand new name: Velodyssee. Well, shall we say a brand new additional name! This is part of the on-going programme of integrating NCN27 into the Euro Velo routes - it forms part of Euro Velo route 1, or EV1 for short. All 1200 km's ofVelodyssee! This isn't - [Sky Ride](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/sky-ride/) - Plymouth had its first-ever Sky Ride recently and even the weather co-operated, as it was a beautiful sunny day.I convinced my wife to come along, and our youngest was on the tag-along. Some snacks & a flask of hot chocolate went into the panniers on my bike, and we were off to the start on - [Dark Side Ride reminder](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/dark-side-ride-reminder/) - Just a gentle reminder that the next Dark Side Ride isn't all that far away! If you don't have a decent light for your bike yet, then I suggest you start looking around soon. If you're anywhere near Plymouth, or more accurately, Yelverton on the 23rd of June, then join us! And if you don't - [Yet more Gem Bridge pics!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/yet-more-gem-bridge-pics/) - While I still haven't had any real opportunity to go and see for myself what the state of play is at Gem Bridge, I was e-mailed a few photos by a friend from work. As you can see, the abutments either side of the bridge are nearly done, although not surfaced yet. Also, there are some railings missing - [New Gem Bridge photos](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/new-gem-bridge-photos/) - I've been forwarded new photos of Gem Bridge, as well as photos of Grenofen tunnel, by Mad Scientist. I was really glad of these pics, as sadly I've not had the opportunity to cycle out to Gem Bridge for some time, and the last update on the Devon County Council site was back in January. - [Chasing a mirage](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/chasing-a-mirage/) - Lately there appears to have been more vitriol than usual from drivers against cyclists. I'm not simply a cyclist, but like most adult cyclists in the UK, I'm a driver too, as well quite often a pedestrian. This allows me to view things from distinctly different perspectives. Once upon a time, everybody was a pedestrian, - [Cycling advocacy sometimes isn't worth the bother](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/cycling-advocacy-sometimes-isnt-worth-the-bother/) - Do you ever get that feeling that peeing straight into a hurricane? That's how I'm feeling about cycling advocacy right now. For starters, there's the stupid in-fighting between various cycling factions. Pro-segregation, anti-segragation, pro-helmet, anti-helmet, pro-this, anti-the-other. Seriously, it makes me sick! And that is BEFORE we get to local authorities' pathetic excuses for not delivering - [Gem Bridge - not long now!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/gem-bridge-not-long-now/) - I had reason to drive to Tavistock today, and on the way back I had literally a few minutes spare, so I quickly checked on the progress made with Gem Bridge. Only one photo, but it speaks volumes! Gem Bridge and some random dog walker The deck is in place throughout, and the railings are - [Cycle path maintenance](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/cycle-path-maintenance/) - This morning I spent in the company of some Sustrans volunteer rangers. I'm not a ranger, and I'm not exactly overly fond of Sustrans, but that relates to how it is structured. I do have a lot of time for what Sustrans does! So why did I spend my morning with Sustrans rangers, I hear - [Murdoch is a jerk, but...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/murdoch-is-a-jerk-but/) - The Times today have taken an extraordinary step by leading with a story that is all about increasing cyclists' safety. If you read many cycling blogs, then you'd already know this. And no, I'm not jumping on any bandwagon here - I've always been on it! Don't get me wrong, I don't like The Times. - [Bere Alston Cycle Route](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/bere-alston-cycle-route/) - The Bere Alston peninsula is a strip of land sandwiched between the Tamar and Tavy rivers, and is conveniently close to Plymouth.Never having been there before, I read about cycling there from a far better blog than this one. Earlier today I took the opportunity to go cycling there. There is a marker "Bere Alston - [Calling all gardeners](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/calling-all-gardeners/) - In this era of austerity, we can all do with a little freebie, so here's one from me to you: If you're looking to buy some mulch, then don't. Instead, simply go help yourself to the up to 5 cm (2 inches in old money) thick layer of squished mulch covering the Plym Valley cycle - [Gem Bridge progress](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/gem-bridge-progress/) - I had a chance today to see what progress has been made on Gem Bridge since I last saw it. The pics below are the result of my curiosity.As you can see (and as I said two posts back) about half of the bridge deck has been laid (oh stop that sniggering there in the - [A last few things](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/a-last-few-things/) - I was again supplied with an updated photo of Gem Bridge by a colleague and friend of mine. I'm quite grateful for that, as I haven't had the chance to get out there for ages. As you can plainly see, half the decking has been laid, and according to the man who sent me the - [Of wolves and men...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/of-wolves-and-men/) - As a species, we pride ourselves on our ability to reason. This, far more than possessing opposing thumbs, is what sets us apart from any other species. After all, primates also have opposing thumbs, yet don't compose hauntingly beautiful concertos, nor do they sculpt Venus de Milo, nor indeed do they know how to change - [Gem Bridge - the final span is in place](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/gem-bridge-the-final-span-is-in-place/) - Here's a short little video clip I was given by a colleague, showing the final span of Gem Bridge is now in place. Although not clearly visible in the video, a significant portion of the deck also have been laid. You can see the temporary bridge used by construction vehicles.The small wooden bridge that used - [NCN2 - Cremyll Ferry to Ivybridge](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/ncn2-cremyll-ferry-to-ivybridge/) - As far as I can work it out, this is the route for NCN2 from Cremyll Ferry in Plymouth to Ivybridge. I haven't updates the Openstreetmap yet, as I'm not 100% certain on a few aspects. And this is where you come in: please will you look the route over and point out any inaccuracies that - [Dark Side Ride - Crazywell Pool](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/dark-side-ride-crazywell-pool/) - A Dark Side Ride On Dartmoor, north-west of Burrator Reservoir lies a small body of water known as Crazywell Pool. Almost exactly the length of a rugby field, is isn't exactly awe-inspiring at first glance. View Larger Map But don't let appearances fool you! The mere mention of Crazywell Pool is enough to make many - [The growing Drake's Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-growing-drakes-trail/) - Drake's Trail is supposedly a cycle and walking path linking Tavistock with Clearbrook. Oh, alright! If you want to be pedantic, there are also several cycling and walking spurs. In fact, looking at the "official" site, you'd notice almost nothing about the actual route between Tavistock and Clearbrook. Instead, the site seems to be all - [Blinking Plymouth City Council!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/blinking-plymouth-city-council/) - In Plymouth we have suffered some 18 months of severe disruption due to the construction of what is called the East End Transport Scheme. Despite the great inconvenience the roadworks have caused, most people have accepted that it was necessary, especially in the light of the extra traffic a proposed new town to the east - [Gem Bridge again](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/gem-bridge-again/) - Recently I cycled out to check on how the clever people were getting with building the bridge. As per usual, I cycled up the Plym Valley Trail, and opted to cycle on the road, up the really steep hill near Clearbrook. It was actually quite misty and the view from some vantage points along - [East End Transport Scheme - Plymouth](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/east-end-transport-scheme-plymouth/) - The past 18 months were a mixture of utter traffic chaos, severe disruption and, seemingly at times, sheer madness.This was due to the East End Transport Scheme being built in Plymouth's East End. Broadly speaking, the scheme would improve traffic flow (for motorised traffic, of course) throughout the area, and crucially prepare creaking transport links to - [Why is Plymouth being stupid?](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/why-is-plymouth-being-stupid/) - It takes a lot to run a city the size of Plymouth, and there is at any point in time huge scope for things to go wrong. Everything needs maintaining and demands on budgets are made all the time from all directions. In a commercial environment this would be hard enough, but throw elected officials - [Another segment dropped in place](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/another-segment-dropped-in-place/) - Gem Bridge, I'm happy to say, is progressing brilliantly! I had the opportunity to visit the site, and take some photos. I wasn't allowed right down into the valley at the time, as they were still securing a segment of the bridge that had been lifted in place just a while before I took the - [Devon C2C for Myeloma UK](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/devon-c2c-for-myeloma-uk/) - On Saturday I'm travelling up to Ilfracombe to start cycling the Devon Coast to Coast route (NCN 27). I'm doing this as a charity fundraiser for Myeloma UK - they provide finance for research, and support for people living with myeloma, and a whole lot more. Myeloma is quite a rare type of blood cancer, - [Friends of Plymbridge Woods](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/friends-of-plymbridge-woods/) - Just on the eastern edge of Plymouth is a gorgeous area known as Plymbridge. The name originated from the bridge over the river Plym, which for a very long time was the bridge nearest to the river's mouth. For a while, the South Devon and Tavistock railway ran through the area, as it followed the - [Cycledarity - united we stand](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/cycledarity-united-we-stand/) - You know the feeling: there you are, happily pedalling along when suddenly a vehicle passes so close it almost scrapes the paint of your bike. We've all had near-misses and we've all had our lives flash before our eyes, just because some driver cut you up, overtook with millimetres to spare or done something else that nearly - [Power!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/power/) - I've posted before about a particular problem I have: my phone runs out of battery power after a few hours of GPS usage. Even when I don't use GPS, I tend to take quite a few pictures when I'm out and about. There are well-known solutions to this problem. Simply by replacing the front wheel - [Riots](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/riots/) - I'm going to steer clear of the moral arguments around the riots. As you will be well aware, by now every right-wing zealot has been calling for all sorts of draconian, stupid and impractical measures, while many have to their shame called for soldiers on the streets, as well as the use of rubber bullets. On - [More on Gem Bridge](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/more-on-gem-bridge/) - On Saturday, I took some more photos I was given some photos, by a complete stranger that I will never recognise again. It was dark when the stranger gave me a micro-SD card containing the photos, and I'm sure he was wearing a wig, a false beard and sunglasses, so I cannot describe him at all.As I - [Emergency cyclist](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/emergency-cyclist/) - Saw this bike in the centre of Plymouth last weekend, while out cycling with my youngest. I asked the paramedic about the weight, and he invited me to try and lift it. It was heavy! I have only the greatest admiration for any paramedic, as a starting point, and probably double that for bicycle paramedics! - [Gem bridge - concrete supports taking shape, but Grenofen tunnel lags behind](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/gem-bridge-concrete-supports-taking-shape-but-grenofen-tunnel-lags-behind/) - Earlier today I had a chance to have a look at what progress has been made at Gem bridge, over the Walkham valley and on the same spot as Brunel's original Grenofen viaduct. Actually I didn't go there just to see what progress had been made - this time I wanted to go and have - [New! Improved!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/new-improved/) - Amongst much fanfare, the Cycle-West.com site has been launched! Oh! You didn't know about it? Then allow me to enlighten you: it is a New! Improved! network of cycle paths in Cornwall, Devon and Dorset, as well as parts of France.Given that my experience of France is limited to a 4-hour stop-over at Charles de - [For evil to prevail...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/for-evil-to-prevail/) - Although it hasn't actually been formally established, Thomas Paine is thought to have said "The only thing required for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing."There is quite a common legal principle around the world which holds an accomplice to a crime as guilty as the perpetrator of the crime. In view - [What we need is art!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/what-we-need-is-art/) - Earlier today I cycled up the Plym Valley Trail, to Yelverton and back. Officially, the Plym Valley Trail ends at Clearbrook, and Drake's Trail starts from there.Along the way, I stopped at Shaugh Halt to eat a chocolate bar and have a drink. Shaugh halt retains the old platform, and is a rather good spot - [How to evade the law...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/how-to-evade-the-law/) - A little while ago I wrote about a VW driver that pulled out on my youngest daughter and I when we went cycling with her on the tag-along behind my bike. At the time I was wearing my helmet cam, so I videoed it, and of course I posted the video here. I didn't immediately - [Dark Side Ride - afterwards](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/dark-side-ride-afterwards/) - On Saturday, 21 May, I headed out to Yelverton, where I picked Simon up. We then made our way to Princetown, and parked in the car park behind the High Moorlands centre. There was a fair bit of wind, but I didn't consider it too bad - certainly no worse than what I've cycled in - [Totnes](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/totnes/) - Totnes is a small town in Devon, and I often get to visit it as an IT support customer has a branch there. Any town with as lively a "hippy" community is cool in my book, and I really wouldn't mind living there!This is from Wikipedia : "Totnes has a sizeable alternative community, and the - [Idiot driver](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/idiot-driver/) - Yesterday afternoon, I went cycling. My youngest often goes cycling with me, and on longer trips it is common for me to hook up her tag-along behind my bike. Although yesterday's trip wasn't going to be a serious distance, it nevertheless involved some hills she struggles quite badly with, so that meant we picked the - [Devon Coast to Coast for Myeloma UK](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/devon-coast-to-coast-for-myeloma-uk/) - I'm cycling the 104 miles of the Devon C2C route from Ilfracombe to Plymouth over the weekend of 10 and 11 September 2011, and while doing so I'm hoping to raise some money for Myeloma UK. Myeloma is a terminal cancer of the bone marrow plasma cells. While there is no cure (yet) treatment has - [Where will you use your 15 miles?](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/where-will-you-use-your-15-miles/) - Apparently Fuel Rationing will be needed before 2020, hence the title of this post. Obviously I have no way of knowing just how exactly rationing would be implemented, nor what the actual limits would be, so the title's 15 miles may well be 150 or 1500 miles. But still... Fuel rationing! Please read the parliamentary - [Gem Bridge - there are signs of progress!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/gem-bridge-there-are-signs-of-progress/) - UPDATE: You may wish to read a more up-to-date post about Gem Bridge here: http://willcycle.blogspot.com/2011/08/more-on-gem-bridge.html On Friday, 22 April 2011, I went cycling, specifically to see what progress was being made with the new viaduct over the Walkham valley, at Grenofen. We've been having some gorgeous weather lately, and Friday was no exception despite being - [A custom-made map!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/a-custom-made-map/) - I've had a thing for maps since I was a boy, and I remember with great fondness my first compass and topographical map.Although a lot of water has run into the sea since then, I still like maps, especially old maps.Now as a self-confessed geek, I've been carrying navigational aids around with me for many - [Driving with Hitler](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/driving-with-hitler/) - This image was linked to in a tweet by @Copenhagenize and was originally here: http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.27507612.jpg.I just had to blog it! - [An urban ride in Plymouth](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/an-urban-ride-in-plymouth/) - This is part of a ride that I filmed using my new helmet cam. The video shows several things: What video quality the camera is capable of (do remember I reduced the video resolution by a great deal after filming, thereby reducing the video from 380 MB down to 77 MB. However, I sacrificed quite - [Camera](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/camera/) - For some time now, I've been thinking about getting a helmet cam, but choosing a helmet cam isn't as straightforward as you may think.You need to consider the megapixel rating, the resolution it films at, the frames-per-second filming speed, the battery life, etc., etc. The list simply goes on and on! And then you get to - [This is not a political statement](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/this-is-not-a-political-statement/) - News reports recently have been overshadowed by the terrible events in Japan, and in Libya, with Bahrain getting a mention now and then. Japan was a catastrophic natural disaster that probably put several nails into the coffin of the "nuclear energy is clean" argument, and with just reason too. After all, in a nation renowned - [A nice day out](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/a-nice-day-out/) - I had this idea in the back of my head that perhaps I ought to do a detailed route map of the Plym Valley trail and Drake's Trail, with photos and info on handy places to stop for a rest (and perhaps a picnic). Throw in references of good shops along the way (like Sonya's - [Walkham Viaduct - an update!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/walkham-viaduct-an-update/) - A while ago I e-mailed Devon County Council for an update on the Walkham viaduct. I waited patiently and received only a thundering silence as response.Fortunately we have the Freedom of Information Act, which means if I asked the same questions as a Freedom of Information request they had to respond, and respond with a reasonable time - [The old and the new](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-old-and-the-new/) - My bike's rear tyre was geting badly worn, and I have been meaning to replace it, but life seemed to be getting in the way all the time. In the famous words of John Lennon, Life is what happens while we're busy making other plans. Today I finally got round to buying a replacement tyre, - [And justice for all?](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/and-justice-for-all/) - In January 2010, Paul Chambers tweeted a message he would live to regret. Snow had closed the Robin Hood airport, and he needed to fly to Ireland. In frustration, he tweeted "Crap! Robin Hood airport is closed. You've got a week and a bit to get your shit together otherwise I'm blowing the airport sky - [Morning rush hour](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/morning-rush-hour/) - Following my usual route to work this morning, I cycled up Tothill road. I saw another cyclist up ahead and tried to catch up.Fortune smiled on me as the other cyclist was slightly delayed by the traffic lights at the intersection where Tothill road becomes Greenbank road. As I got close I realised it was - [Back-sliding in Plymouth](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/back-sliding-in-plymouth/) - In Plymouth, we have some cycling infrastructure that, although not brilliant and certainly not up to Dutch standards, still remains actually quite good. An example would be Billacombe road, heading out of the city. Have a look at the following pic: Billacombe road used to be two lanes in each direction, but was reduced to - [Walkham Viaduct](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/walkham-viaduct/) - For those of you not fortunate enough to live in a narrow strip of land sandwiched between the coast and Dartmoor, with NCN route 27 passing less than half a mile from your front door, the Walkham is a river that gave it's name to the village of Walkhampton. Apart from that bit of otherwise - [Slush rage](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/slush-rage/) - I cycled to work yesterday morning, and as ever I felt I was far safer and better off than had I been driving. Overnight Plymouth had a lot of snow, but towards 05h00 we also had some drizzle, turning all the snow to slush and ice. For some obscure reason Plymouth City Council apparently did - [Danny MacAskill is a copycat!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/danny-macaskill-is-a-copycat/) - Not quite sure about the claim of this being the first bike trick EVER, but still well worth watching. - [On the other hand...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/on-the-other-hand/) - Having just completed a rather hopeful & optimistic post, my home town of Plymouth still has a LONG way to go: This picture is of what the planners/road safety implementers have gone and done on Charles Cross roundabout. As the next pic (of the same spot) shows, there is a bus lane, which of course - [Phoenix?](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/phoenix/) - During these freezing cold winter days, a breath of fresh air has started to blow. A breath of fresh air that holds the potential of bringing something remarkable to the UK. We have suffered for so long at the hands of the government, the DfT, and even organisations who are supposed to be on our - [I'm not competitive...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/im-not-competitive/) - Commuting to work this morning, I cycled my usual route, which took me up Tothill road and Greenbank road. It was on Greenbank rd that I saw him - a little bit ahead, joining the road from a little side street that doesn't really go anywhere.He was on a slicked-up fully rigid mountain bike, while - [Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/dulce-et-decorum-est-pro-patria-mori/) - I've read all sorts of opinions about cycling ranging from "Cyclists are vehicles and we should cycle on the road as equals" to "No - we should have separate infrastructure!" and almost everything in between. I'll start by admitting that I don't have the answers to solving this dilemma, but I've stumbled across a few - [Life](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/life/) - I was a teenager in the 80's. Aside from producing REALLY cool music and REALLY naff hairstyles, the 80's also invented the Yuppie, and the world has never been the same since! One phrase probably describes the 80's better than any other: Greed is good. And therein lies the problem - all of a sudden - [Kit review](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/kit-review/) - I obtained a set of panniers from Lidl some time ago, and I've been using it virtually daily. Commuting to work means I carry a change of clothes, my lunch, bike lock, battery for my bike's headlight, toolkit and whatever else I may need, all in the panniers. The panniers are made by Crivit, and - [Honors Flowers, the sequal...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/honors-flowers-the-sequal/) - Cycling up Tothill avenue the other day I was pleasantly surprised by something. For those not from Plymouth, starting off from Cattedown roundabout it is quite flat, but then there is a longish hill in the form of Tothill avenue, continuing onto Greenbank avenue. The road isn't very wide at all, certainly not wide enough for - [Honors Flowers](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/honors-flowers/) - I was cycling down Mutley Plain last Thursday, at around 17h30, merrily minding my own business while pacing the speed of the slowish traffic.Approaching the junction where traffic can turn off to Ford Park road, I was in the left lane. The right lane was choked with traffic wanting to turn. Oh, and one VERY - [MakeHammondHistory](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/makehammondhistory/) - Somebody came up with a VERY good campaign - one of those great ideas that everybody else failed to think of, but afterwards felt that anybody could have thought of it. Great ideas normally make people feel like that. Anyway, if you only do ONE positive thing for cycling, for the environment, for yourself this - [Cursed cold](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/cursed-cold/) - I hate colds! When you have a cold, you're not proper unwell. Instead, you usually end up with a stuffy, runny nose, a few sneezes and some coughing, but generally speaking you're only unwell enough to be annoyed by it, yet not enough to even be able to feel sorry for yourself. This past week - [My bike light](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/my-bike-light/) - I've posted before about a bike light I had made, following an idea I saw on Instructables.com. In short, it is using an old Nokia phone to power a 50-odd LED cheap lamp. It worked quite well, and gave around 4 hours of light on a full charge. The trouble was that despite having 50-odd cheap LED's, - [Austerity Cuts](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/austerity-cuts/) - I'll be upfront with you - I have almost no faith in the government. And no, this is well above that stupid my-daddy-is-bigger-than-your-daddy party-political system we have in the UK.I guess what I should say is I have almost no faith in the previous, current or future government of the UK, even though that sounds - [Because I'm a geek...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/because-im-a-geek/) - I'm a geek, no escaping that fact. Even worse, I'm proud to be a geek. It is for that reason that I work in IT, and the same reason explains my love of gadgets. Like my phone - I use two phones, an HTC Athena, which has a massive 5" screen and a hardware keyboard, - [Drake's Trail](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/drakes-trail/) - I went cycling today, with the aim of cycling along Drake's Trail. For those of you not from these parts, Drake's Trail (combined with the Plym Valley cycle path) is an attempt by Devon County Council to get a decent cycle track linking Tavistock and Plymouth, via Yelverton. Currently there is a seriously iffy bit - [Cheapskate](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/cheapskate/) - I'm quite upfront about this - I don't like paying for things when I don't absolutely need to, and when I do pay I prefer to get absolute value for money. That doesn't necessarily mean buying the cheapest item (although I often do) but rather buying the item that I believe to offer the best - [Doping](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/doping/) - Pro cycling has again been hit with doping scandals, just as there is still an ongoing investigation against Lance Armstrong.In this instance Contador may or may not actually be guilty, but the truth is it doesn't matter one way or the other as the damage has been done. It's a bit like police mistakenly breaking - [One less car](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/one-less-car/) - During last night's cycle ride my normal route was a tad disrupted. I normally cycle down The Ride towards Saltram, before following NCN route 27 through Saltram House's grounds. The Ride is a cul-de-sac for cars, but cyclists can continue through Saltram. Halfway down The Ride there were many vehicles, most with flashing blue lights. - [I want one!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/i-want-one/) - Cycled to an almost-local shop with my youngest daughter, who is 7, as she wanted her very own vase to keep a rose in. It's only about 1,5 miles to the shop, and we were soon there. After having locked up our bikes, we saw this trike: It is an electrically-assisted trike with a huge - [Being a dad](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/being-a-dad/) - I'm one of those privileged people known as dads and to be honest I love being a dad. Recently I took my son camping on Dartmoor, in the middle of nowhere. He built a shelter out of wood and vegetation and did a rather excellent job of it, too. The plan was all along that he'd sleep - [Velomobiles](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/velomobiles/) - I have long had a fascination with velomobiles and the person who must carry the blame above all else is David Hembrow. Yep, David, your writings, photos and videos of your Sinner Mango has had me decidedly green with envy several times over! Call me over-optimistic, but I honestly believe that a fully enclosed velomobile - [Night cycling](https://www.willcycle.com/night-cycling/night-cycling/) - I'm annoyed! But hang on a sec and let me explain from the beginning:Some time ago I stumbled onto a website, Itsnotarace.org, that deals with something they termed "silly commuter racing". The principle is simple - when you have two bicycles travelling in the same direction on the same road at the same time then - [Immortality or lack of foresight?](https://www.willcycle.com/night-cycling/immortality-or-lack-of-foresight/) - Last night I went cycling, as I usually do most nights. I've been getting a tad bored with my normal route, so I thought I'd try something different. My new route took me over Laira bridge and before long I was following the Oreston cycle path, then cutting across Radford lake dam wall.I had a - [Bob Dylan and Plymouth City Council](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/bob-dylan-and-plymouth-city-council/) - I have posted before about my dealings with Plymouth City Council, and I must admit that after having met the man in charge of Sustainable Transport I thought we've made some progress. You see, he's listened to my frustrations regarding poor cycling infrastructure in the city. When I inquired about Cycling Group he informed me - [A return to cycling](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/a-return-to-cycling/) - I've been on holiday for two weeks - one of those laze all day by the poolside holidays - in the searing Turkish summer.The resort was impressive, the food was good, the beach was nice and the pool was awesome! In fact, apparently it is the largest pool anywhere on the Med. And I got - [Come to the Dark Side...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/come-to-the-dark-side/) - Right, I've threatened enough, now it's time to organise an actual midnight ride. All that remains is to decide the route and to pick a date. I'm thinking of two possible routes:The first starts at the Coypool Park & Ride, then follows the Plym Valley cycle path all the way to Plym Bridge. From Plym - [Wonderful infrastructure](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/wonderful-infrastructure/) - In Plymouth there is a disused railway track that has been converted to a footpath/cycle path. It starts just off the Morrison's roundabout and heads towards Radford lake. It actually used to end close to Mountbatten, but sadly a bridge was removed a long time ago.The rough yellow line in the following image shows the - [Plymouth's been Copenhagenized?](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/plymouths-been-copenhagenized/) - For those of you that don't know what Copenhagenized means, head on over to Copenhagenize.com, one of my favourite blogs.In essence, it is all about the pervasive bicycle culture that Copenhagen's become famous for. Mikael Colville Anderson, the man behind that blog, says even he is not quite sure about what exactly Copenhagenize means, but it - [Tranquillity](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/tranquillity/) - I went for my usual night cycle ride last night, at around 22h00. I have this route that follows Embankment road out of Plymouth, before taking me on part of the Plym Valley cycle path.At Plym Bridge I get on the road to Plympton, which includes quite a hill. From Plympton I head up Cot - [Bakfiets](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/bakfiets/) - I know these are very common in the Netherlands, but they certainly aren't common in Plymouth. Spotted this one parked up just outside the aquarium. In the Netherlands this is known as a bakfiets, which translates as container bicycle, although most people would call it a cargo bike. From the fully-enclosed chain to the drum - [Gdynia Way](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/gdynia-way/) - Gdynia Way is a main arterial route delivering traffic into Plymouth. Having said that, perhaps I should also point out that Plymouth seems to have been designed with gridlock in mind and typically it only takes one road to be obstructed (even partially) for the city to become gridlocked. Anyway, as part of a major - [I went cycling today...](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/i-went-cycling-today/) - OK, I did, but then I go cycling every day. So what is so different today, you may ask. The honest answer is that I don't know why it was different, only that it was. I set off from home riding in the sunshine, with the temperature a reasonably pleasant 16 C. All the way out - [My silver bike and poor customer service](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/my-silver-bike-and-poor-customer-service/) - My silver bike, the hybrid I commute with, is nothing special. It is a Raleigh Pioneer with mudguards, a rack & straight bars. It has some honest components: Shimano hubs, Shimano derailleurs (front & rear) & Shimano crankset and SKS mudguards. I do not for a moment consider it a top-of-the-range bike, but rather a bike-next-door kind of bike, - [Life, the universe & everything](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/life-the-universe-everything/) - OK, so I liberated the title of this post from the creative genius that was Douglas Adams, but let's not get stuck there and instead move on. I'd have liked to have started this post with something like "been doing some thinking" but the reality is I'm ALWAYS doing some thinking. Mine is a very - [A strange old time](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/a-strange-old-time/) - My sister passed away two years ago yesterday, and I miss her. I'm not morbid, or in denial or anything like that - I just miss her. Have you lost someone and found yourself thinking of them? Then you'd know how I've been feeling these past few days. I suppose bitter-sweet would best describe the - [Coincidences](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/coincidences/) - Two things happened recently:1) I've been thinking about cycling from Land's End to John O'Groats as a charity fund raiser. As such I've been reading LOADS of blogs of people that have done either LeJog or JogLE (the other way round).2) I took my youngest cycling to Radford Park in Plymouth, where we fed the ducks. - [Openstreetmap.org & Cyclestreets.net](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/openstreetmap-org-cyclestreets-net/) - As the number of winters I've seen clock up I'm becoming more and more a fan of Open Source software. Many people mistakenly think Open Source = free, which isn't always the case, but I'll not spend any more time on that.Instead I want to talk about Openstreetmap.org, which is an Open Source site and - [Moans & groans](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/moans-groans/) - A old friend of mine taught me something simple, many moons ago: whatever you focus on will seem bigger & more important than things you don't focus on. And therein lies the problem: In my hometown of Plymouth I would dearly love for the cycling infrastructure to at least rival the best in the UK, - [Bestlaid plans and all that](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/bestlaid-plans-and-all-that/) - OK, I know I said Friday night's Midnight Ride in Princetown was going ahead regardless, but I cannot make it! I've had a small handful of people tell me they were thinking about going, and one that almost guaranteed they'd be there. Given this rather less than overwhelming response, I thought I postpone it until - [The wonderful Plymouth City Council](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/the-wonderful-plymouth-city-council/) - I have an on-going disagreement with Plymouth City Council. It started after some blasted idiot nearly killed me at a then brand-new build-out on Ham drive. I enquired why no cycle by-pass was included in the design and received the following as reply: " Due to lane widths available on Ham Drive and Fore Street - [Night Cycling](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/night-cycling-2/) - I call it night CYCLING as opposed to night riding for fairly obvious reasons: I want to avoid any connotation with a seriously naff actor in an even more seriously naff 80's TV show! Seriously, the Hoff is about as cool as Cliff Richard and Sir Cliff may be a lot of things, but cool certainly - [Ready-made rip-offs](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/ready-made-rip-offs/) - I'll start by saying I make no excuses for who and what I am. If you find me too acidic, or too cynical, well I suggest you hit the "Back" button on your browser and we'll part ways. The thing is I don't suffer fools gladly and I have absolutely NO time for self-serving corrupt - [My racer](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/my-racer/) - As a kid in in South Africa I was the proud owner of a 10-speed Raleigh road bike, complete with drop bars & skinny wheels. I absolutely loved that bike! Having grown up in a small town close to the Botswana border, I was free to roam in ways that my kids would never be. About - [Techie troubles](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/techie-troubles/) - It started with an innocent text message. Something along the lines of "My mate's PC has a virus & I'm struggling to sort it. Can you help?".99.999% of the time my answer is a simple yes, and this time was no exception.My mate dropped the errant PC off at my house (given that it is - [Hot air & public servants](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/hot-air-public-servants/) - I'll hold my hand up and admit I rant from time to time. I cannot abide wingeing or moaning, but I'll accept a rant now and then. This is a rant. I rant because I'm passionate about things. I believe we CAN save this planet, provided enough people start doing something. Call me naive, call - [Midnight ride](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/midnight-ride/) - I've been a fan of night riding for a long time now, but pretty much all my night riding so far has been done on well-lit urban roads. This is easy to explain: for proper night riding you need a decent light and I didn't have one. Being a natural-born-geek one of my favourite sites - [Spreading the love, or not?](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/spreading-the-love-or-not/) - Idiots - the planet's one commodity that is becoming ever more plentiful. Take for example this site: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Theres-a-perfectly-good-path-right-next-to-the-road-you-stupid-cyclist/190080667052 - God only knows the depths of depravity that spawned the mind that felt compelled to create this rubbish. And Facebook is washing its hands in an admirable Pontius Pilate impression. "Freedom of speech", "No violence against - [Changes](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/changes/) - I've done it: changed my phone case, lights and bell from the black bike to the silver bike. From now on I'll commute using the silver bike. I took it out for my first ride on it this morning and I was struck first by how different it is to ride, then by how smooth - [Farewell 2009!](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/farewell-2009/) - And suddenly 2009 is gone, vanished, never to be seen again! I'm not really one for analysing the past year, nor do I believe in New Year's Resolutions. To be fair, I quit smoking on the 3rd of Jan, 2008, but that was pure co-incidence. I woke up that morning & realised that it was - ["I thought of it while riding my bicycle..."](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/i-thought-of-it-while-riding-my-bicycle/) - Even Einstein, world-renowned for being a genius, loved riding his bike! Not just that, he discovered his theory of relativity while out cycling.He also said "Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving."Clever man. - [Haagen Dazs and traffic](https://www.willcycle.com/uncategorized/haagen-dazs-and-traffic/) - Went for my normal evening cycle - nothing serious, normally just a 5 mile jolly. It was different this time, because I was under strict instructions to stop off at a Co-op supermarket in search of some Haagen Dazs Pralines and Cream ice cream. (If you've never tried it you're missing out! SERIOUSLY good ice ## Pages - [](https://www.willcycle.com/) - Cycle touring help, tips & how-to's, plus the BEST UK traffic-free cycle routes, star-rated for family friendliness! - [My Recorded Routes](https://www.willcycle.com/recorded-routes/) - [My dashboard](https://www.willcycle.com/my-routes/) - Route Builder Use the route builder to quickly, and easily create new cycling routes. My Routes Click here for a list of recorded, or planned routes. Bike profile Please set up at least one bike profile? It's essential for adding bumpiness data, which is a feature that makes the maps better for everyone. If you - [LiveShare](https://www.willcycle.com/liveshare/) - You are viewing this page because someone gave you their LiveShare link, so you can follow them in near real-time. Please note that live-sharing relies on the rider having mobile signal, and that their phone screen remains switched on. - [App Route](https://www.willcycle.com/app/route/) - [Route Builder](https://www.willcycle.com/app/route-builder/) - [wcb_app_route_builder] - [App Navigate](https://www.willcycle.com/app/navigate/) - [App Settings](https://www.willcycle.com/app/settings/) - [Touring Routes](https://www.willcycle.com/app/touring-routes/) - [App Live Sharing](https://www.willcycle.com/app/live-sharing/) - [Touring](https://www.willcycle.com/app/touring/) - [Route](https://www.willcycle.com/app/route-2/) - [App Browse](https://www.willcycle.com/app/browse/) - [App Bikes](https://www.willcycle.com/app/bikes/) - [Login](https://www.willcycle.com/app/login/) - [App My Routes](https://www.willcycle.com/app/my-routes/) - [App Games](https://www.willcycle.com/app/games/) - [App Route Builder](https://www.willcycle.com/app/builder/) - [App Home](https://www.willcycle.com/app/) - [Membership](https://www.willcycle.com/membership/) - I built WillCycle to help more people discover traffic-free cycling routes across the UK. That only works if the platform is genuinely accessible, so the core experience costs nothing. The extras you pay for help keep it running and make it better for every member, including yourself. WillCycle now has three levels of access: Guest, Community - [Strava Heatmap](https://www.willcycle.com/strava-heat-map/) - This is your personal heatmap, using your data from Strava. Two things are required for it to work:1) You must be logged in, and2) You must have linked your Strava account. It will initially take quite some time for all your rides to show. Rides are imported in batches of 200, every 15 minutes, and - [Games Lobby](https://www.willcycle.com/games-lobby/) - The Games Lobby is where you start, or join an existing WillCycle Game. All games are open to everyone, though at some stage in future that may change. Happy gaming! - [WillCycle Games](https://www.willcycle.com/willcycle-games/) - Here are four multiplayer cycling games. Play against friends on real routes, using your live GPS position. No downloads required - everything happens right in your browser. How to start a game Visit the Games page and choose a game type, then tap Create Game. This will make you the game host. You'll get a 6-letter code. Share it - [Route Builder](https://www.willcycle.com/route-builder/) - The WillCycle Route Builder is deliberately basic. It offers just the functionality you need to build a route, and nothing more. You can switch between different maps, choose to display Points of Interest (PoIs), such as cafés, pubs, or bike shops, and you can add additional information. If navigating your own route, using this site, - [GPS Art](https://www.willcycle.com/gps-art/) - Ever wanted to do your own GPS art, and write a message, or draw a picture, out there in the rear world, simply by riding your bike? And then you discovered how difficult it is to actually match that picture to the roads and paths. Now you have the WillCycle GPS Art Generator to make - [Navigate Any Traffic-Free Route listed on WillCycle. Ad-Free. Voice Guided. From 7p a Day](https://www.willcycle.com/register/) - Join many other UK cyclists who plan, navigate and track their rides with WillCycle Just £2 per month - that's less than 7p per day, or less than half a posh coffee per month. It's the equivalent of a teaspoon of a latte per day, or the tiniest bite from a McDonald's cheeseburger, per day. - [Coffee Ride](https://www.willcycle.com/coffee-ride/) - Cycling & coffee is a match made in heaven! Add in making coffee in unusual locations and you're onto a winner. Just go for a Coffee Ride! - [Whoops!](https://www.willcycle.com/whoops/) - Seems you clicked a link that points to content that is exclusive to WillCyclers! I'm afraid you'll only be able to view the content by becoming a WillCycler, and being logged in. The good news is that WillCyclers can run ad-blockers on the site, for a completely ad-free experience! That's not all, though: The individual - [My Completed Traffic-Free routes](https://www.willcycle.com/completed-routes/) - [Rain Radar Map](https://www.willcycle.com/rain-radar-map/) - A rain radar map especially for cyclists, to help them dodge showers, while out on a bike ride. Check it before every ride, and café stop! - [Traffic-free cycle routes in Cornwall](https://www.willcycle.com/cornwall-traffic-free-cycling-routes/) - The best traffic-free cycle routes in Cornwall! See what the route surface is like, the local weather forecast and an interactive map, plus much more! - [Traffic-free cycling routes in the UK](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-the-uk/) - The BEST collection of UK traffic-free cycling routes, all graded by safety, route surface, toilet & café stops, what barriers you'll find AND how hilly it is! - [Cycle Routes](https://www.willcycle.com/cycle-routes/) - Highly detailed, tested and high-quality cycle route guides. DayCycle rides are shorter & free, while GoCycle rides are multi-day adventure guides, for the price of a coffee! - [Secret City](https://www.willcycle.com/secret-city/) - Secret City routes are routes specific to certain cities (or towns). Because it's nearest to where I live, I started with Secret Plymouth routes. Routes for other cities and towns will follow, with the exception of Birmingham. For Birmingham, I'll simply refer you to ecobirmingham (see the link at the bottom). What's the secret? Back - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes in Devon](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-devon/) - The best traffic-free cycle routes for Devon! These tell you what the route surface is like, provides a weather forecast and an interactive map, plus more! - [Who's Will?](https://www.willcycle.com/about/) - Cycle touring & adventuring is for everyone. Yes, even for you. This page tells you about how I came to be the man that I am, and how I started cycle adventures - [Shop](https://www.willcycle.com/shop-1/) - This is my new, simplified webshop. If you followed a link for a T-shirt, hoodie, or cycling cap, I'm afraid I stopped selling those. GoCycle Multi-day cycle touring route guides My GoCycle digital route guides are highly detailed, and are loaded with information about the area through which you will cycle. Not only will they - [Shop](https://www.willcycle.com/shop/) - [Plymouth Cycle Route Network](https://www.willcycle.com/plymcycle/) - The PlymCycle network is a route of (still to be) signed cycle routes, making use of existing cycling infrastructure (where it exists) in the city of Plymouth - [Traffic-Free Cycling Routes In County Durham](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-durham/) - The BEST traffic-free cycle route guides in County Durham! All the routes here are listed with interactive maps, weather forecast plus lots of extra info! - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Derbyshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-derbyshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Derbyshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Cheshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-cheshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Cheshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Greater London](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-greater-london/) - The BEST traffic-free cycle route guides in London! All the routes here are listed with interactive maps, weather forecast plus lots of extra info! - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Cambridgeshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-cambridgeshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Cambridgeshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Will's Bookshelf - great cycle touring books](https://www.willcycle.com/the-bookshelf-great-cycle-touring-books/) - If you're looking for good cycle touring books, this list will delight you! From LEJOG to crossing continents, to cycling around the world, this list has it all - [WillCycle Supporters](https://www.willcycle.com/willcycle-supporters/) - WillCycle Supporters are people just like you, and just like you, they want to have benefits most visitors to the site don't have. What benefits? Well, for starters, WillCycle Supporters can browse WillCycle ad-free (when logged in). Additionally, there is a growing list of content that is available exclusively to WillCycle Supporters. What content that - [Help me](https://www.willcycle.com/help-me/) - Sometimes, finding answers can be difficult. This page exists so you can quickly find answers to many cycling, and cycle touring questions you may have. - [Shop FAQs](https://www.willcycle.com/shop-faqs/) - I simplified my shop, and as a result, also simplified my Frequently Asked Questions page. Do you do refunds? All that I now sell in my shop is route guides. Those are digital download products, and I'm afraid I cannot do refunds on them. The reasons are simple: I know my route guides work. I - [Contact me](https://www.willcycle.com/refunds/) - Please also read my FAQs page! Contact me It's very simple to contact me: just leave a comment below. - [Newsletter Archive](https://www.willcycle.com/newsletter-archive/) - Here you can access older versions of my Newsletter, The Spirit Of Adventure. Remember, these are archived newsletters, so none of the competitions or giveaways are valid anymore. Also, most of them carry links to T-shirts, hoodies or caps, and I no longer sell those. If you still haven't signed up for the Spirit Of - [Login](https://www.willcycle.com/login/) - [Where's Will Now?](https://www.willcycle.com/wheres-will-now/) - Live-sharing my location when cycle touring A fair number of the rides I do are Travelling Ouballie rides - click the link to learn what those are, and how to pronounce it. Not everyone can join me on such rides, and that's OK - we all have busy lives. Like many of you, I enjoy - [Traffic-free cycling routes in Northamptonshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-northamptonshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Northamptonshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Scotland](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-scotland/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Scotland, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Wales](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-wales/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Wales, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Staffordshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-staffordshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Staffordshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Shropshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-shropshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Shropshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Rutland](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-rutland/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Rutland, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Oxfordshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-oxfordshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Oxfordshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Nottinghamshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-nottinghamshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Nottinghamshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Northumberland](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-northumberland/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Northumberland, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Northern Ireland](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-northern-ireland/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Northern Ireland, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Norfolk](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-norfolk/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Norfolk, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Lincolnshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-lincolnshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Lincolnshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Leicestershire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-leicestershire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Leiestershire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Lancashire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-lancashire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Lancashire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Kent](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-kent/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Kent, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Herefordshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-herefordshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Herefordshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Hertfordshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-hertfordshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Hertfordshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Hampshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-hampshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Hampshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Gloucestershire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-gloucestershire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Gloucestershire, you're to the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Essex](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-essex/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Essex, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Dorset](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-dorset/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Dorset, you've come to the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps and extra information! - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Cumbria](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-cumbria/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Cumbria, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Buckinghamshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-buckinghamshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Buckinghamshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Berkshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-berkshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Berkshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Bedfordshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-bedfordshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Bedfordshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Yorkshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-yorkshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Yorkshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Worcestershire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-worcestershire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Worcestershire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Wiltshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-wiltshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Wiltshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Warwickshire](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-warwickshire/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Warwickshire, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Sussex](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-sussex-2/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Sussex, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Suffolk](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-suffolk/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Suffolk, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Sussex](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-sussex/) - Brighton Bimble – finally done! So, you're based in, or near London, and you're looking for a great, ready-made, two or three day cycling adventure? Oh, then I have really good news for you! Centurion Way traffic-free cycle route Centurion Way traffic-free cycle route overall rating: ⭐⭐⭐ Centurion Way is a 6 mile, mostly traffic-free - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Surrey](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-surrey/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Surrey, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Traffic-free Cycling Routes In Somerset](https://www.willcycle.com/traffic-free-cycling-routes-in-somerset/) - If you're looking for traffic-free cycle routes in Somerset, you're in the right place! All the routes listed, with interactive maps & extra information - [Forgot Password](https://www.willcycle.com/forgot_password/) - [Edit Profile](https://www.willcycle.com/edit_profile/) - [Change Password](https://www.willcycle.com/change_password/) - [Guest](https://www.willcycle.com/guest/) - Welcome Guest, - [Thank You](https://www.willcycle.com/thank_you/) - Thank you for payment with us, We will reach you soon. - [Cookies](https://www.willcycle.com/cookies/) - WillCycle Cookie policy My website uses cookies to distinguish you from other users of my website. This helps me to provide you with a good experience when you browse my site and also allows me to improve my site. A cookie is a small file of letters and numbers that my site stores on your - [Newsletter](https://www.willcycle.com/newsletter/) - [newsletter] - [Useful Information](https://www.willcycle.com/useful-information/) - Cycle Touring - Your questions answered Cycle touring for beginners You have questions about cycle touring. This page should answer most of them Is cycle touring right for you? Not sure if cycle touring is right for you? Read this guide and gain clarity Top tips for cycle touring Some really good cycle touring tips, - [SheCycles](https://www.willcycle.com/shecyles/) - SheCycles is a growing series of posts that follow a set format: I present a wide range of women with the same set of questions, which they're free to interpret as they wish, and to answer (or not) in their own words. I started SheCycles deliberately as a small way to highlight some women, but - [Privacy Policy](https://www.willcycle.com/privacy-policy/) - Who I am I'm Will, and this is my site, https://www.willcycle.com. If you need to get hold of me, simply leave a comment under any blog post. Comments are moderated, to prevent spam. Comments When visitors leave comments on my site, the site collects the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s - [Issuer Page](https://www.willcycle.com/issuer-page/) - This page will display issuer json only. - [Assertion Page](https://www.willcycle.com/assertion-page/) - This page will display assertion json only. - [LEJOGLE Relay](https://www.willcycle.com/lejogle-relay/) - A Guinness World Record attempt as a LEJOGLE relay In the summer of 2022, I'm organising a LEJOGLE relay. In case you didn't know, LEJOG is a bicycle ride from Land's End to John O'Groats, and JOGLE is a ride from John O'Groats to Land's End. LEJOGLE is a ride from Land's End to John ## Products - [Cycle To The Sea](https://www.willcycle.com/product/cycle-to-the-sea/) - Cycle To The Sea is a mostly traffic-free route that starts at London Paddington, and finishes on the beach at Shoreham-by-sea, some 86 miles later. - [GoCycle - Brighton Bimble](https://www.willcycle.com/product/gocycle-brighton-bimble/) - Brighton Bimble is a 105 mile circular route that starts and ends in Crawley, and that (as the name suggests) circles through Brighton. Almost a full two thirds of the route is traffic-free, and it passes through stunning Sussex scenery. The start of the route, Three Bridges train station in Crawley, is easily reachable by - [Save the earth - compost a billionaire - Men's sports T‑shirt](https://www.willcycle.com/product/save-the-earth-compost-a-billionaire-mens-sports-t‑shirt/) - Billionaire shouldn't exist, and are wrecking the planet. Show where you stand with this T-shirt. This T-shirt is understated, yet high performing, allowing you to focus fully and unlock your potential. Crafted from a lightweight fabric which wicks sweat away from the skin to ensure you stay cool and dry. With a crew neck and - [Jaffaholic - Women's sports T‑shirt](https://www.willcycle.com/product/jaffaholic-womens-sports-t‑shirt/) - Can you even say you love Jaffa cakes if you don't own this T-shirt? This classic T-shirt is cut to a feminine fit integrating form and function to unlock your fitness potential. Crafted from a lightweight fabric to wick sweat away from your skin. With a self-fabric crew neck and cap sleeves, its non-restrictive design - [Game Over - Women's sports T‑shirt](https://www.willcycle.com/product/game-over-womens-sports-t‑shirt/) - With more than a nod to classic, retro arcade games, where the game ended with the famous words of "Game Over - insert coin to continue" this T-shirt reflects how important coffee is to you, and how everything else can wait until after you had your coffee. This classic T is cut to a feminine - [Simplicity - Women's sports T‑shirt](https://www.willcycle.com/product/simplicity-womens-sports-t‑shirt/) - Why overcomplicate things? Life's better when it's simplified. This design keeps it simple. Crafted from a lightweight fabric that wicks sweat away from the skin, to ensure you stay cool and dry. With a crew neck and relaxed fit this t-shirt will take the heat off you whether you’re working out, taking part in a - [WeCycle - Men's organic, vegan, sports T‑shirt](https://www.willcycle.com/product/jc001-mens-just-cool-sports-t‑shirt-wecycle/) - Show the world how serious you are about your cycling. Crafted from a lightweight fabric that wicks sweat away from the skin, to ensure you stay cool and dry. With a crew neck and relaxed fit this t-shirt will take the heat off you whether you’re working out, taking part in a charity run, or - [Coffee Is Not The Answer - Men's organic, vegan, sports T‑shirt](https://www.willcycle.com/product/coffee-is-not-the-answer-mens-organic-vegan-just-cool-sports-t‑shirt/) - Coffee is not the answer. Coffee is the question. Yes please, is the answer. After all, coffee is the precious nectar that makes life worthwhile. This T-shirt is clear about how much you love coffee. Crafted from a lightweight fabric that wicks sweat away from the skin, to ensure you stay cool and dry. With - [Life Behind Bars - Men's organic, vegan, sports T‑shirt](https://www.willcycle.com/product/life-behind-bars-mens-organic-vegan-just-cool-sports-t‑shirt/) - An iconic design, instantly recognisable to anyone who ever cycled on a bike with dropped bars. This was the very first WillCycle T-shirt design, and remains my favourite. Crafted from a lightweight fabric that wicks sweat away from the skin, to ensure you stay cool and dry. With a crew neck and relaxed fit this - [Roadie - Men's organic, vegan, sports T‑Shirt](https://www.willcycle.com/product/roadie-mens-organic-vegan-just-cool-sports-t‑shirt/) - As a dedicated roadie, you know the feeling of freedom you achieve by labouring up climbs, and enjoying fast descents. Crafted from a lightweight fabric that wicks sweat away from the skin, to ensure you stay cool and dry. With a crew neck and relaxed fit this t-shirt will take the heat off you whether - [Freedom - Men's organic, vegan, sports T‑Shirt](https://www.willcycle.com/product/jc001-mens-just-cool-sports-t‑shirt-freedom/) - Cycle touring brings with it a freedom few ever get to experience. That’s what this T-shirt is all about. Crafted from a lightweight fabric that wicks sweat away from the skin, to ensure you stay cool and dry. With a crew neck and relaxed fit this t-shirt will take the heat off you whether you’re - [Game Over - Men's organic, vegan, sports T‑Shirt](https://www.willcycle.com/product/gameover-mens-just-cool-sports-t‑shirt/) - Coffee is important, and we all have times during the day when we just grind to a halt without our next coffee. This T-shirt, with its 8-bit graphics and text, playfully mimics old arcade games saying "Game Over - insert coin to continue". Crafted from a lightweight fabric which, wicks sweat away from the skin, - [GoCycle Devon Coast To Coast digital route guide](https://www.willcycle.com/product/gocycle-devon-coast-to-coast-digital-route-guide/) - Also known as NCN 27, this is by a huge margin the most detailed guide for this stunning route available anywhere. As is always the case with GoCycle route guides, the TCX file is loaded with lots of extra information about the route, so it acts more like a digital tour guide. At just shy of 100 miles, this is a perfect weekend, or 3-day escape, through a stunning and extremely varied landscape. Roughly 70 of those miles are traffic-free, with the remainder on (usually) quiet rural lanes. I love this route so much, I usually end up riding it at least once per year. - [GoCycle Kennet & Avon Canal cycle route](https://www.willcycle.com/product/gocycle-kennet-avon-canal-cycle-route/) - This route forms part of NCN4, and sets off from Bristol Temple Meads train station, to end at Reading train station. The route includes traffic-free old railways, stunning canal towpaths, hilly rural lanes and some more challenging bits. As ever, the GoCycle digital route guide is full of extra information about the landscape through which - [GoCycle Somerset Circle digital route guide](https://www.willcycle.com/product/gocycle-somerset-circle-digital-route-guide/) - This is a stunning, 100-mile circular route, that includes huge variation. Starting and ending at Bristol Temple Meads train station, you have cityscapes, the flat roads of the Somerset Levels, the challenges of the Mendip hills, several tunnels and various old railways to enjoy. The included TCX file is, as is always the case with my GoCycle route guides, full of extra information about the landscape through which you'll be cycling. ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://www.willcycle.com/category/uncategorized/) - [Back To Basics](https://www.willcycle.com/category/back-to-basics/) - [Better world](https://www.willcycle.com/category/better-world/) - [Cycle touring](https://www.willcycle.com/category/cycle-touring/) - [Camping](https://www.willcycle.com/category/camping/) - [Adventure](https://www.willcycle.com/category/adventure/) - [Ouballie](https://www.willcycle.com/category/ouballie/) - [Climate change](https://www.willcycle.com/category/climate-change/) - [Book Review](https://www.willcycle.com/category/book-review/) - [Women](https://www.willcycle.com/category/women/) - [WeCycle](https://www.willcycle.com/category/wecycle/) - [Kit Review](https://www.willcycle.com/category/kit-review/) - [Tech](https://www.willcycle.com/category/tech/) - [SheCycles](https://www.willcycle.com/category/shecycles/) - 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[Yorkshire](https://www.willcycle.com/category/routes/yorkshire/) - [Worcestershire](https://www.willcycle.com/category/routes/worcestershire/) - [Derbyshire](https://www.willcycle.com/category/routes/derbyshire/) - [Eastern Scotland](https://www.willcycle.com/category/routes/eastern-scotland/) - [South Western Scotland](https://www.willcycle.com/category/routes/sw-scotland/) - [North Eastern Scotland](https://www.willcycle.com/category/routes/ne-scotland/) - [Highlands](https://www.willcycle.com/category/routes/highlands/) - [Scottish Islands](https://www.willcycle.com/category/routes/islands/) - [North Wales](https://www.willcycle.com/category/routes/north-wales/) - [Mid Wales](https://www.willcycle.com/category/routes/mid-wales/) - [South West Wales](https://www.willcycle.com/category/routes/sw-wales/) - [South East Wales](https://www.willcycle.com/category/routes/se-wales/) - [Hertfordshire](https://www.willcycle.com/category/routes/hertfordshire/) - [Gravel](https://www.willcycle.com/category/gravel/) - [Green route](https://www.willcycle.com/category/green-route/) - [Blue route](https://www.willcycle.com/category/blue-route/) - [3 stars](https://www.willcycle.com/category/3-stars/) - [2 stars](https://www.willcycle.com/category/2-stars/) - [50-plus miles](https://www.willcycle.com/category/50-plus-miles/) - [20 to 30 miles](https://www.willcycle.com/category/20-to-30-miles/) - [30 to 40 miles](https://www.willcycle.com/category/30-to-40-miles/) - [10 to 20 miles](https://www.willcycle.com/category/10-to-20-miles/) - [Under 10 miles](https://www.willcycle.com/category/under-10-miles/) - [4 stars](https://www.willcycle.com/category/4-stars/) - [Towpath Cycling](https://www.willcycle.com/category/towpath-cycling/) - [40 to 50 miles](https://www.willcycle.com/category/40-to-50-miles/) - [1 star](https://www.willcycle.com/category/1-star/) - [5 stars](https://www.willcycle.com/category/5-stars/) - [NCN 4](https://www.willcycle.com/category/ncn-4/) - [Tarred throughout](https://www.willcycle.com/category/tarred-throughout/) - [Coast To Coast Rides](https://www.willcycle.com/category/routes/coast-to-coast-rides/) - [WAW Series](https://www.willcycle.com/category/waw-series/) - [Audax](https://www.willcycle.com/category/audax/) - [WillCycle Supporters](https://www.willcycle.com/category/willcycle-supporters/) - [Secret Plymouth](https://www.willcycle.com/category/secret-plymouth/) - [Secret Cities](https://www.willcycle.com/category/secret-cities/) - [GoCycle Route Guide](https://www.willcycle.com/category/gocycle-route-guide/) - [Routes](https://www.willcycle.com/category/routes/) ## Tags - [Back to basics](https://www.willcycle.com/tag/back-to-basics/) - [000000](https://www.willcycle.com/tag/000000/) - [222222](https://www.willcycle.com/tag/222222/) - [NovemberCampout](https://www.willcycle.com/tag/novembercampout/) - [NoMoreIn24](https://www.willcycle.com/tag/nomorein24/) - [333333](https://www.willcycle.com/tag/333333/) - [6699cc](https://www.willcycle.com/tag/6699cc/) - [RideForGaza](https://www.willcycle.com/tag/rideforgaza/) - [12x12](https://www.willcycle.com/tag/12x12/) - [AIfree](https://www.willcycle.com/tag/aifree/) - [RubbishRide](https://www.willcycle.com/tag/rubbishride/) - [Jennride](https://www.willcycle.com/tag/jennride/) - [Break](https://www.willcycle.com/tag/break/) - [BreakfastClub](https://www.willcycle.com/tag/breakfastclub/) - [LanterneRougeRide](https://www.willcycle.com/tag/lanternerougeride/) ## Product categories - [Men's T-shirts](https://www.willcycle.com/product-category/t-shirts/) - Organic, egan T-shirts, from a WRAP-certified supplier, so you know your new T-shirt is ethical. - [Digital Route Guides](https://www.willcycle.com/product-category/digital-route-guides/) - Some amazing adventures await when you follow a WillCycle multi-day GoCycle route guide! - [Women's T-shirts](https://www.willcycle.com/product-category/womens-tshirts/) - T-shirts that are cut specifically for women, and that are almost as amazing as you are.