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Post Info TOPIC: Electric mountain bike rides..


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RE: Electric mountain bike rides..


I regret to say I can't join you , otherwise engaged.....cry 

The moor is truly lovely at the moment, I spent today exploring parts of the Southern Moor I hadn't ridden before, excellent until I came to acres of molinia grass with no way through. NO fun whatsoever no At least I now know where to avoid....

Came across rider at Red lake on a KLX 300 which would not start !! He had owned the bike for 3 weeks and saw the track on an OS map and thought it looked a good idea no. I put him right about the legality of him riding along Puffing Billy helped him bump start the bike and sent him on his way quickly before he was spotted ...... I think (and hope) he might be joining the TRF shortly wink



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Hope you had a good ride today Pete. It was bl00dy hot.
I had to let the digger cool down a couple of times and have no more magnum classics left in the freezer )-:

I am aware that your route around the river Teign had other interesting loops in it but if I am going out with Jamie, I am looking for a route that gives him a workout but does not destroy him or have me waiting around at the top of climbs.
We are both amazed that we can match pace and enjoy the experience equally ! An unexpected bonus that I am really grateful for.
I am also training little used muscles gently, as Idiscover the Optibikes potential.

So a route that starts off high, has a natural end for the peddlars and allows me to rv with a parked vehicle at the start, works.

David, is that molinia grass that grows between Red Lake and Hexworthy ? Nothing seems interested in eating it and it seems to like growing in saturated ground.

You can ride a motorcycle through it but you have to keep rolling steadily, apparently .......
Someone I knowwell could do nothing to help a friend who stalled his old DR350 between Hexworthy and Redlake but circle around, as he frantically kicked it back into life with each kick lowering him into the gloop a little more.

And there I was pondering if a Belstone to Ivybridge Dartmoor crossing would be possible on an eMTB. (-;

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deci wrote:

I regret to say I can't join you , otherwise engaged.....cry 

The moor is truly lovely at the moment, ....wink


 

youaintseenme wrote:

Hope you had a good ride today Pete. It was bl00dy hot.
 (-;


I did have a good ride, not too far or too fast but the breeze was pleasant and sun shine lovely.

I was feeling the urge to ride my bike after three weeks without an outing and alone despite text 

invites being sent I went anyway, driving out onto the moor via the Lost City of Stormsdown

to avoid heavy traffic generated by three way lights at roadworks.

2019-08-25 12.14.05.jpg

Wanting to enjoy the seasonal display of purple flowering heather crowning the the high moorland with it's delicate scent and constant background buzzing of countless bees busy at their work I started from Hound tor car park to give me easy access to the high ground. Jay's grave was decorated as usual and the recent repairs to a badly eroded path made the short climb easy before the sinuous descent to Natsworthy. 

02 Jay's grave.MOV_snapshot_00.11_[2019.08.26_01.32.15].jpg

Across the road a family were setting up barbecue camp by the picturesque ford and I hopped the front tyre over the stream watched by paddlers who stepped aside politely for me to pass. The steep grassy slope held plenty of grip and it was a pleasure to ascend 100 meters up the steepest slope all day with relative ease assisted by only 60 to 80 % of boost so I enjoyed the silence rather than wheezing with the distant views.

2019-08-25 12.53.41.jpg

An elderly gent at the RAF stone memorial lamented such a a short walk but he must be quite fit for 72 to be 1 km distance and 100 m elevation from his car as most people do not, or worse can not walk that far. I took in the view looking back the way I had come and much further but saw the car park in the middle distance across a couple of folds of the land which the e bike had breezed over like the minor hills they are. Turning once again uphill but with very little height to go I enjoyed being surrounded by the purple carpet of buzzing scented shrubs as I had climbed above the dividing line between green surround and purple heights.

20 Descent to Natsworthy.MOV_snapshot_00.08_[2019.08.26_01.12.39].jpg

I took the minor right turn that looks like straight on at the left kink on the Grimspound way and crossed Hookney Down on the wide track across the dip to follow the ancient tall stone wall to the gate less gateway with its tall redundant gatepost monoliths then crossed the wide heather strewn valley to Birch tor on the Two Moors way bridleway. I first passed a mtb rider pedaling gamely across the down, then was in turn passed by him as I paused to take pics before catching up again on the next climb but decided not to leapfrog him again and paused to enjoy the splendid view sitting on the cairn above the Warren House inn as he descended the path I would shortly take over a dozen newly constructed sharp stone edged drainage channels to Bennett's cross.

2019-08-25 13.02.34.jpg

Descending from Bennett's cross along the bridleway through the old mine workings is one of the finest bits of single track around and I was pleased to get over the cutting where erosion by floodwater has both deepened and widened the stream crossing, mainly thanks to the torque available to assist and no footing was involved.

2019-08-25 13.29.20.jpg

 I do not know who Johny Rose was but a plaque bears his name on a ruined wall at Birch tor and Vitifer tin mine where I took lunch. When I saw a group of nine ramblers pass the plaque and pause to listen to their leader I asked as he came by me about the plaque but he knew no more than I. We laughed heartly after both suggesting possible legends or mysteries which could explain it while adding intrigue and interest.

2019-08-25 13.34.20.jpg

I enjoyed the stunning views surrounded by vibrant greens and purples with the delicate music of running water punctuated by equine snorts of delight as hooves stabbed at the water splashing both the thelwell style tubby pony and its diminutive toddler rider and amused but by now very wet stable hand leading the dripping beast. Bikini clad campers paddling in the stream by the clapper bridge grinned as passing spaniels on leads paused for fuss as I passed. 

2019-08-25 14.05.28.jpg

I love the long descent from Headland Warren between the heather down to Headland Warren farm where a new parallel track has become established beside the deep eroded uncomfortable rock strewn gulley and should you make the wrong line choice you will know it.

Nearing the junction of the bridleway with the tarmac road I expected to cross I was baulked by a family having a picnic in the sunken lane complete with checkered table cloth table and four chairs with a full spread being enjoyed al fresco and I detoured slightly using the track beside the boundary wall which is wider and easier to find than the bridleway I had intended to use.

17 Descent to Grimspound.MOV_snapshot_00.40_[2019.08.26_01.07.14].jpg

Pausing for a panoramic video shot atop Hookney tor I headed downhill passing a rambler with a mono wheel trailer behind her attached to her rucksack and doubling her load capacity while managing quite well on the uneven stone slabs and boulders laid as a metalled way to avoid erosion on the busy path above the huge historic settlement. I descended to Grimspound below using the uneven stone path but forking left on a whim to the track NE of the huge ancient compound previously unused by and unknown to me and I  admired the 3,500 years of history as I enjoyed a snack and savoured the view from a stone age hut complete with porch. 

2019-08-25 14.35.51.jpg

A wide green track punctuated by black peaty strips between flowery heather is easy to follow and soon speed picks up after cresting the hill and the wide undulating green sheep mown carpet of springy turf has plenty of opportunities for airborne frivolity should one have excess energy to burn and a sense of fun. Note the passing bee, lots of those..

20 Descent to Natsworthy.MOV_snapshot_01.07_[2019.08.26_01.15.47].jpg

Brakes are optional at this stage but after passing the RAF memorial stone steeper gradients call for restraint and I have yet to roll all the way down as gravity has me speeding beyond my comfort zone. I once paused to point the way in front ahead and below down the hill and was asked 'Is it dangerous?' and replied in the affirmative to approval by a rider who seconds later crashed big time at speed and had a near death experience while I shook my head saying 'Oh dear..' in what I could only hope was a reassuring way to the bloody mess in front of me while performing unreassuring mental arithmetic about how long it might take to empty a human body of blood at the rate I was seeing in front of me after a spinning bike pedal caught up with its riders temple after unscheduled dismount cutting him neatly but deeply and close to some impressively high pressure veins. Fortunately for him I had a clean handkerchief and bleeding was staunched and ended by two minutes holding the wad of cloth onto the wound as hard as he could bear. We did however go out and buy helmets the very next day... 

I still kept enough speed to crest the last rise below and hear the tyres leave the ground and rolled silently motor idle above 15.5 mph with a steady 17.5 mph thanks to gravity and only touched the brakes to avoid splashing anyone at the ford but was able to jump the water unimpeded to reach the gate. A cheerful silver haired woman wearing a bra as a bikini top rushed over from the barbecue picnic encampment of wind breaks, gazebo tent and assorted furniture to hold open and close the gate for me while two kids who had obviously been paddling by their attire paused their play to watch. 

21 Descent to Jay's grave.MOV_snapshot_00.01_[2019.08.26_03.19.08].jpg

Two ebikers passed at the wide section beside the field which used to have the giants chair and warned of the overgrowth laying in wait for me ahead which was kind of them, but my fore arms still looked like I had fought a fight with a cat with several red streaks by the time I reached the car. Enchantingly beautiful but treacherous dappled golden afternoon sunlight filtered through the woodland glade above and beside the loose rock strewn root infested  bridleway semi illuminating the deep hollow way as I rolled silently but smoothly showing my suspension works. I timed my passing through the gate at Jay's grave perfectly and a mountain bike rider who had already opened the gate volunteered to also close it and I rolled smoothly through.

21 Descent to Jay's grave.MOV_snapshot_03.30_[2019.08.26_01.27.44].jpg

Shade seeking black and white cows were standing close by my car and one kept head butting it as she shook her head to move flies swarming her head meaning I had to move her to put the mirror straight before I could drive home.

2019-08-25 15.10.59.jpg

Only cycled ten miles with four road crossings interrupting the off tarmac experience for the briefest intervals. An hour and ten minutes actual riding between frequent pauses for water in the heat and photos, snacks and taking in the view. Average speed was 9 mph and max a cautious 25.5 mph.

A lovely day. Grin factor huge. 



-- Edited by Pete on Monday 26th of August 2019 03:40:31 AM

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What a smashing read, Pete, thankyou for the dialogue and picturs.

I was with you all the way. wink

Poor lad having to have his bleeding wound attended to. Pleased for him it was no worse!

I will be venturing out to Dartmoor tomorrow on my mob scooter.

I am meeting a group of like minded people at the Fox & Hounds pub, Lydford for a tour of the Rattlebrook Railway.

It's organised for the Dartmoor Walking Festival by Accessible Walks.

A saunter on the open moor above the River Lyd following the track bed of the old railway around Great Links Tor to Rattlebrook Peat Works to explore the area's industrial archaeology.

6.25 miles in total, with no charging points, toilets or cafes!

Martyn



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Pete how many miles is that route?

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bombx3 wrote:

Pete how many miles is that route?


 9.5 miles in total with some good ups and downs as you can see from the elevation data snap shot

easy enough on any mtb but I have to push my Reign up the first big hill which the Trance E+ breezes up easily

Heather.JPG



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So when is the first E-Bike meeting to held at the Dolphin then fella's 

I'm sure the landlord wouldn't mind accommodating a few e-bikes upstairs on display plus some light hearted banter from E- bike tails/tales on the trails 

Comparison of many different models on display with the owners pitching whats the best feature/s of their bikes 

would be an interesting meet, one that might get me out of my rocking chair to attend wink

 

Loving the reports and in-depth discussion/s about E-Bikes, keep em coming lads smile



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Clubman B

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Nice one Pete.

Thats another area I am familiar with from back in the days when we were 'looking for a bullock with a bit of blue string around its tail' that was apparently missing from its range above Widecombe (-; ( never did find it ...)

I look forward to following in your footsteps.

Do you still carry an unused handkerchief ?

were you at work on Sunday night ? ......... Edited by Pete on Monday 26th of August 2019 03:40:31 AM

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Good report Pete, I was with you in spirit.........cry 

As a matter of interest, I think the guests we had that day will be getting emtbs after trying mine !!



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Hi Noel.  I had a brief word with Jamie at Melplash Show.  His display wowed the crowd and my little grandson too.  



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He was equally as good at the Honiton show!

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youaintseenme wrote:

Nice one Pete.

Do you still carry an unused handkerchief ?

were you at work on Sunday night ? ......... Edited by Pete on Monday 26th of August 2019 03:40:31 AM


 Handkerchief - always, you never know

I am mostly nocturnal these days with a steady shift pattern instead of the rolling BCT constantly jet lagged shifts. Working 9 to 5.30 but at the other end of the day to most people.



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Bought one of Lidl's seat covers for the Opti yesterday. Seems to ft OK but not ridden with it on yet. Worth taking a punt at £4. Didn't realise there were two sorts so look carefully to get the right one for you....

https://www.lidl.co.uk/en/MiddleofLidl.htm?articleId=24778



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Ride planned for Saturday 31st. Starting at 11 am and riding till 3 pm ish.

Probably around Burrator reservoir taking in 202-038, 202-039 and 202-040 as well as claim lanes 202-283 and 202-284. We will be using the lanes where trail bikes are permitted and the rest of the routes in the area too as there is some excellent up and down thereabouts. Route will be about 20 miles.

Gasser Edwards says he is free, contact me to arrange transport if you want to join us


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no Not again !! I've other arrangements on Saturday that I can't get out of and I'm riding tomorrow, in the same area as it happens......  Look out for my tyre tracks wink

One day the planets will align and i'll get out with you again Pete !! Enjoy the ride 



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i couldn't get out today either but me and schooe are gonna do this loop 2mo if anyone wants to join us. leaving newton about 11am and princetown about midday.

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Another fun day out riding started wet with a cold showery squall coming over as I put the bike rack onto the car. The windscreen wipers were needed for more than half the journey to our start point but it brightened up nicely and we ate ice creams in the sun by a babbling brook later.

We went no more than two miles from Burrator reservoir and it involved several seriously good bits of downhill.

2019 August 31st Burrator.JPG

The disused railway cycle track took us from Burrator quarry car park and across the new road bridge. Turning uphill above Peek farm we enjoyed not having to push up the steep slope thanks to electric pedal assistance. It used to take me 30 mins to push my Reign up to the top of Peek hill but the Trance E+ makes short work of it. We were slightly delayed when Mark's chain derailed and he was unfortunate enough to break his dropper post lever mount. Nothing a few cable ties could not fix though and we were soon good to carry on.

2019-08-31 15.59.27.jpg

The view from Peek hill is spectacular with 360 degree panoramic vistas. Looking south the Tamar bridge and Plymouth breakwater were easy to pick out beyond the reservoir while in the opposite direction Brent tor ten miles north and Kitt hill twelve miles west were clear to see.

2019-08-31 12.54.00.jpg

We took the path downhill from the cairn toward Lowery tor turning right and downhill again to Peekhill plantation over the grassy humps and clattered down the washed out path to cross the Devonport leat on the wide stone clapper bridge and passing Lower Lowery barn on our 3 minute descent losing 160 meters of altitude rather quickly. Great fun.

From cross gate we took 202-038 as far as Leathertor farm where my CRM has to turn around but we carried on down to Leathertor bridge turning right down the undulating bridleway jumping off the protruding rocks on our way to join 202-039. At the end of the road we met two mtb riders from Falmouth and passed an exhausted Specialized pilot at the end of the plantation as well as avoiding head on's with a further three riders all lacking head gear. 

We passed the recently restored Crazywell cross on our way to the reputedly bottomless pool of the same name.

14 Crazywell cross to Crazywell pool.MOV_snapshot_00.09_[2019.09.02_07.25.03].jpg

A short distance over the horizon lies the start of Raddick lane whose gate is never closed these days. Some idiot on a motorcycle had dug a furrow with his back wheel on the open moor beyond the open gateway. Dodging the many loose rocks we flew down Raddick turning right downhill 202-382 on the cobbles to Leathertor bridge again but turning right up 202-383 to climb out of the plantation to cross the river Meavy on the dodgiest bridge ever, made of three sheets of corrugated iron. 

18 River Meavy crossing.MOV_snapshot_00.27_[2019.09.02_07.34.03].jpg

The wide grassy climb up to the Devonport leat was soon behind us and we saw fish dart away from our shadows as we followed the crystal clear waters past the top of 202-384 the ucr/footpath from Leathertor farm. We crossed 202-038 onto the steep rooty footpath which snakes down to Norsworthy bridge where the lure of the ice cream van gave us pause and a 99 flake later we started along 202-040. After passing the ruin we also passed the wooden sign warning motorised users not to continue any further. After jumping/splashing across the over full drainage channel we both bottled the opportunity to ride across the ancient clapper bridge over the stream.

21 202-040 Norsworthy bridge to Blowing house.MOV_snapshot_05.40_[2019.09.02_07.59.55].jpg

Recent repairs have rendered the steep slope beyond ride-able once again and we climbed to the edge of Yellowmead down. I selected full boost and dropped the seat post and managed to get the Trance to lug itself plus me up and out of the sunken rocky lane after the ford which was a first and we picked up speed descending the track down to meet the bridleway north of Sheepstor. Mark made it look easier than I but the technical rocky track was soon behind us. I was pleased to ride through the boulder field and rock garden after the gate without footing for the first time ever, but declined to use the series of ever larger steps to jump off and anyway there was a car parked on the last landing area.

We paused on a bench above the earth dam which we had seen below us earlier from Peek hill. This pic shows the track we used to descend from the hill in the distance.

2019-08-31 15.04.02.jpg

After crossing both the earth dam and then the stone dam we stopped to admire the waterfall at the start of the cycleway.

2019-08-31 15.38.58.jpg

We covered 14 miles in total with a max of 25.5 mph with an average of 8 mph and I still had 40 % charge left in the battery on getting back to the car. 

After a good ride we enjoyed a welcome pint of bitter at the Warren house inn on the way home. Top day out. Looking forward to the next ride already.



-- Edited by Pete on Monday 2nd of September 2019 07:26:43 AM

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I'm planning an eMTB ride on Friday 6th Sept, weather permitting.

Route of about 18 mls on Southern Dartmoor with about 0.5mls of tarmac . Starting at my place at 11 am, PL21 0HB, parking available.

Pete, don't worry if you can't make it as it's more or less the route we rode a few weeks ago ...

Anybody interested ??



-- Edited by deci on Wednesday 4th of September 2019 09:43:08 AM

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Currently exploring green lanes in Anglesey and not back till the wee'kend (-:,

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Used the tin bridge many times whilst out on the mtb, nice write up Pete.

Recommend that next time your down this way, a lunch stop at the Royal Oak in Meavy. A chance to sup good beer, sample great food and see a 1000yr old oak tree which is apparently nearing the end of it's 'life', I guess it may not be too long before the H&S bods decide it has to come down...



-- Edited by potus on Wednesday 4th of September 2019 06:32:09 PM

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potus wrote:

Used the tin bridge many times whilst out on the mtb, nice write up Pete.

Recommend that next time your down this way, a lunch stop at the Royal Oak in Meavy. A chance to sup good beer, sample great food and see a 1000yr old oak tree which is apparently nearing the end of it's 'life', I guess it may not be too long before the H&S bods decide it has to come down...



-- Edited by potus on Wednesday 4th of September 2019 06:32:09 PM


 One third of the tin bridge got washed away last winter and it was tricky crossing for a while till some kind person retrieved it.

The Royal Oak at Meavy is indeed worth a visit and I have started rides there in order to end the day with a beer. I thoroughly enjoyed the blue cheese burger and the Meavy Oak ale of theirs is lovely. Best enjoyed sat in the shade of the oak tree on the green beside the pub



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IMG_8139.JPGIMG_8138.JPG                         My 2nd time on a cycle for 30year+  from Ashburton to near Rocombe 11 miles lots of fun even though i was on my own



-- Edited by bombx3 on Friday 6th of September 2019 03:15:10 PM

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IMG_8140.JPG                            So peaceful ans saw no one



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IMG_8142.JPG  

i was unsure about ebikes and water but it still works ok



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IMG_8143.JPG

Seen many a motor bike drown in here



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E2CB4540-23B1-448E-B709-6DCE7CF8ED63.jpeg



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Nice one Ray, another one joining the club !!

I believe it is wise not to submerge the electric motors on these bikes or it will be expensive !! Splashproof only.....

 

 



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Ride out arranged for Sunday 15th starting 13.00 from Burrator quarry car park

Pete, Deci, Bombx3 & Gasser Edwards confirmed

19 mile route is scout hut loop plus 202-247 and 201-083 before descending Lynch common to 201-090.

Pint of Meavy Oak ale to follow

If anyone else wants to join us they would be welcome



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Cracking ride, cracking weather and a good craic !!  Thanks Pete for organising.



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Was a belter of a day and washed down with a pint

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The Trek PowerFly was the ride of choice on Sunday with my Giant Trance outnumbered three to one as Bombx3, Gasser Edwards and Deci joined me for another e-bike ride. We drove up onto and over Dartmoor and after parking my partner at the pub where we intended to finish the ride we began from Burrator quarry car park because the cycle way to Princetown begins there.

2019-09-15 13.15.37.jpg

Our 19 mile route took us a sinuous eight miles gradually uphill along the disused railway which means no more than a slight gradient and relaxed riding as far as Princetown, then a more technical five mile Bridleway was followed by tracks over Lynch common linked by a lane formerly used by TRF trail riders.2019 09September 15th Scout hut, Lovaton & Lynch common.JPG

We were not the only people out enjoying the bright sunshine and the ten mountain bike riders in one large group were taken by surprise when the four of us rolled through them enjoying the advantage of pedal assisted e-drive.09 Mtb x 10.MOV_snapshot_00.32_[2019.09.17_18.36.25].jpg

We stopped atop the cliff overlooking Foggintor quarry and took a break basking in the sun enjoying a slight breeze while bikini clad bathers took to the water in the lake below.15 Climb onto cliff above Foggintor.MOV_snapshot_02.05_[2019.09.17_18.38.41].jpgThe Tavistock lane Bridleway begins beside the Plume of Feathers inn heading almost dead straight south into the moorland wilderness for several miles seen here from on top of South Hessary tor 2019-09-15 15.00.52.jpgI climbed up to rock the logan stone which drums its echo across the landscape thumping on top of the tor. David shouted 'reach for the sky!' and his pic is above this post. We passed some exhausted looking sqaddies with huge packs resting standing up21 Passing squaddies and ditches.MOV_snapshot_02.16_[2019.09.17_18.34.28].jpgWe met a pedal powered mountain biker who had just fixed a snake bite pinch puncture at the first bend at Nun's cross and paused for a pic2019-09-15 15.13.21.jpgAfter winding our way to the highest point on our ride at Eylesbarrow Tin Mine we stopped to admire the extensive view before the long descent over rocky boulders punctuated by sharp stone edged drainage channels. 24 To Eylesbarrow.MOV_snapshot_03.53_[2019.09.17_18.42.45].jpgTavistock lane apparently carries 30,000 ramblers and 10,000 mountain bikers every year and has been allocated £150,000 for repairs which have so far transformed a bit more than half of the five mile Princetown - Nun's cross - Scout Hut route from Dartmoor bog to wheelchair friendly track, with occasional granite outcrops and drainage ditches just to keep things interesting. The two mile rocky descent from Eylesbarrow to the Scout Hut will be sorely missed by the mountain bikers when repairs are complete.

202-427 is no longer used by Trail riders and had fallen out of use prior to NERC but I enjoyed seeing Deci jump the earthwork at New Park and did the same behind him. The dogs at the farm barked and wagged their tails as we passed through before the long green descent to the ford by the clapper bridge over the Lovaton brook on 201-083 where a couple out in their garden waved and smiled as we bid them enjoy the lovely day in passing by. 31 201-083 Durance to Lovaton.MOV_snapshot_02.59_[2019.09.17_18.43.37].jpg

Our last track of the day winds its way down the North side of Lynch common and is a delightfully varied combination of green grassy slopes, rocky gullies, and ruts, roots, drop offs and berms. You can see the pub and church of Meavy in the distance above the riders heads33 Ringmoor cottage to Marchants cross descent.MOV_snapshot_00.07_[2019.09.17_18.47.06].jpg

There was one more optional extra in store at 201-090 where Gasser Edwards took the plunge and rose to the challenge 35 201-090 Meavy ford Gasser Edwards.jpg

As did Bombx3 who wheelied as a large under water stone caused his front wheel to jump out of the water36 202-090 Meavy ford Bombx3.MOV_snapshot_00.25_[2019.09.17_18.32.53].jpg

Before long we had returned to our starting point and retraced our steps to the pub where we were greeted by my by now merry partner and joined her for well earned beers2019-09-15 16.51.06.jpg

It is astonishing how differently people react to pedal cyclists who are warmly welcomed compared to motor cyclists who are barely tolerated. Much fun was had, nothing broke, nobody fell off, everybody smiled and waved, top day out. 



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Clubman A

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Nice report Pete, that route is a cracking one I've done a few times . Another little gem for grub is the Fox Tor cafe in Princetown, well worth a visit and they don't mind muddy smelly dogs or bikers. smile



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Expert

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Sorry to subject you to my daft sense of humour, Pete, but the stripe on your shirt makes it look like you're drinking your pint through a straw.



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Chris


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Pete wrote:

The Trek PowerFly was the ride of choice on Sunday with my Giant Trance outnumbered three to one as Bombx3, Gasser Edwards and Deci joined me for another e-bike ride. We drove up onto and over Dartmoor and after parking my partner at the pub where we intended to finish the ride we began from Burrator quarry car park because the cycle way to Princetown begins there.

2019-09-15 13.15.37.jpg

Our 19 mile route took us a sinuous eight miles gradually uphill along the disused railway which means no more than a slight gradient and relaxed riding as far as Princetown, then a more technical five mile Bridleway was followed by tracks over Lynch common linked by a lane formerly used by TRF trail riders.2019 09September 15th Scout hut, Lovaton & Lynch common.JPG

We were not the only people out enjoying the bright sunshine and the ten mountain bike riders in one large group were taken by surprise when the four of us rolled through them enjoying the advantage of pedal assisted e-drive.09 Mtb x 10.MOV_snapshot_00.32_[2019.09.17_18.36.25].jpg

We stopped atop the cliff overlooking Foggintor quarry and took a break basking in the sun enjoying a slight breeze while bikini clad bathers took to the water in the lake below.15 Climb onto cliff above Foggintor.MOV_snapshot_02.05_[2019.09.17_18.38.41].jpgThe Tavistock lane Bridleway begins beside the Plume of Feathers inn heading almost dead straight south into the moorland wilderness for several miles seen here from on top of South Hessary tor 2019-09-15 15.00.52.jpgI climbed up to rock the logan stone which drums its echo across the landscape thumping on top of the tor. David shouted 'reach for the sky!' and his pic is above this post. We passed some exhausted looking sqaddies with huge packs resting standing up21 Passing squaddies and ditches.MOV_snapshot_02.16_[2019.09.17_18.34.28].jpgWe met a pedal powered mountain biker who had just fixed a snake bite pinch puncture at the first bend at Nun's cross and paused for a pic2019-09-15 15.13.21.jpgAfter winding our way to the highest point on our ride at Eylesbarrow Tin Mine we stopped to admire the extensive view before the long descent over rocky boulders punctuated by sharp stone edged drainage channels. 24 To Eylesbarrow.MOV_snapshot_03.53_[2019.09.17_18.42.45].jpgTavistock lane apparently carries 30,000 ramblers and 10,000 mountain bikers every year and has been allocated £150,000 for repairs which have so far transformed a bit more than half of the five mile Princetown - Nun's cross - Scout Hut route from Dartmoor bog to wheelchair friendly track, with occasional granite outcrops and drainage ditches just to keep things interesting. The two mile rocky descent from Eylesbarrow to the Scout Hut will be sorely missed by the mountain bikers when repairs are complete.

202-427 is no longer used by Trail riders and had fallen out of use prior to NERC but I enjoyed seeing Deci jump the earthwork at New Park and did the same behind him. The dogs at the farm barked and wagged their tails as we passed through before the long green descent to the ford by the clapper bridge over the Lovaton brook on 201-083 where a couple out in their garden waved and smiled as we bid them enjoy the lovely day in passing by. 31 201-083 Durance to Lovaton.MOV_snapshot_02.59_[2019.09.17_18.43.37].jpg

Our last track of the day winds its way down the North side of Lynch common and is a delightfully varied combination of green grassy slopes, rocky gullies, and ruts, roots, drop offs and berms. You can see the pub and church of Meavy in the distance above the riders heads33 Ringmoor cottage to Marchants cross descent.MOV_snapshot_00.07_[2019.09.17_18.47.06].jpg

There was one more optional extra in store at 201-090 where Gasser Edwards took the plunge and rose to the challenge 35 201-090 Meavy ford Gasser Edwards.jpg

As did Bombx3 who wheelied as a large under water stone caused his front wheel to jump out of the water36 202-090 Meavy ford Bombx3.MOV_snapshot_00.25_[2019.09.17_18.32.53].jpg

Before long we had returned to our starting point and retraced our steps to the pub where we were greeted by my by now merry partner and joined her for well earned beers2019-09-15 16.51.06.jpg

It is astonishing how differently people react to pedal cyclists who are warmly welcomed compared to motor cyclists who are barely tolerated. Much fun was had, nothing broke, nobody fell off, everybody smiled and waved, top day out. 


 



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