Saints Big Bike Challenge - 68 mile training/social ride

This ride is for all those thinking about, or already signed up to the Saints Foundation Bike Challenge 2017, or those who are just looking for a longer ride with like-minded cyclists. More information about this 2-day charity cycle ride if interested is here: http://saintsfoundation.co.uk/big-bike-challenge-may-2017/

We're heading out towards the Meons and Petersfield - which means hills! See route below. We may amend the route slightly after final recce and depending on conditions etc but this is the plan; including a short stop to top up/use the facilities at The Beech Cafe at The Sustainability Centre at around the half way mark. Link to GPX file of route https://www.strava.com/routes/7815301

As it is a longer ride, please note the earlier start time of 9am.

If you rode with us in March, you will see this is longer, and with a little more elevation - so a step up again which is a good thing.

We will split into 2 groups, the first group will be riding to an average near 15mph and hence take about 5 hours including stops.

The second group will probably be about 12-13mph and hence aim to take about 6 hours including stops.

Please bring enough clothing and food/water to be self-sufficient and comfortable whatever the weather might throw at us. We have scheduled one main stop but this and any others are likely to be (weather dependent) 'pit stops' to top up rather than long stops. Make sure you have spare inner tubes - ideally two that you know fit your bike - and make sure you check your tyre pressures and pump them up well before you come along.

The stadium is on National Cycle Route 23 and 1.5 miles from Southampton Central Station. If you need to come by car and want to park at the Stadium, please park in the NORTH car park. This is £2 pay and display and sometimes only takes coins!

If you normally ride faster, just put an extra layer on and come along and be social! If you've not yet done this many miles and have any concerns, please do contact Jim or one of the Ride Leaders on [email protected]