- Can I cycle up and down Ben Nevis?
- Does it always rain in Fort William?
- Do I have to be an expert to ride the trails?
- Do I have to have an expensive bike to enjoy the trials?
- How hard is the Offbeat Downhill track?
- If I have a puncture should I call out the Mountain Rescue?
- When is the best time to visit Fort William?
- What do the green, blue, red, and black waymarkers that I find on some trails mean?
Can I cycle up and down Ben Nevis?
Briefly, no. It would be necessary to carry your bike up and the path is too fragile for downhill riding.
Does it always rain in Fort William?
No, it was lovely last week!
Do I have to be an expert to ride the trails?
There are trails to suit all abilities – if you have any doubts or need more detailed information ask at the local bike shops, at Nevis Range and at the Forestry Commission.
Do I have to have an expensive bike to enjoy the trials?
No, as long as your bike is in a reliable and safe condition you can enjoy the trials which are suitably graded for your type of bike. Again if in any doubt ask at your local bike shop.
How hard is the Offbeat Downhill track?
Very! It is the UCI World Cup course so it is designed to challenge the world's best, but if you are a competent biker with the right equipment then take the plunge! More information about the track is available from Nevis Range and if you want to chat to people who've done the downhill before pop in to one of the bike shops.
If I have a puncture should I call out the Mountain Rescue?
You should not be in a remote situation without spare equipment – inner tubes, folded tyre, chain splitter, multi – tool – and know how to use them. Only if self – help is unrealistic or serious injury occurs should you call for help.
When is the best time to visit Fort William?
The weather can be good at any time of the year but Springtime – April, May & June – is the most reliable.
What do the green, blue, red, and black waymarkers that I find on some trails mean?
Green = Shallow gradient; compacted surface 2 – 3m wide; suitable for occasional cyclists and families Blue = Moderate gradient with some sections that may have to be walked; requires riding experience; compacted surface 2 – 3m wide. Flat but with rollable obstacles; suitable for novice mountain bikers and families Red = Steep gradients; trail width below 1m; a range of surfaces including embedded rock obstacles; suitable for good mountain bikers Black = Steep gradients with drop – offs; mostly on narrow tracks with rough surfaces; difficult embedded or natural rock obstacles; suitable for expert mountain bikers only
