Cycling Seasons
- Often good weather March - June
- Long days in which to try out the longer routes and the wide variety of landscapes
- Midge free
- Quiet roads tracks and trails before most visitors arrive
Summer Cycling
- Remember to take midge repellent and sun lotion
Winter Cycling
- Sounds obvious but we can all forget the obvious - lights in autumn and winter
- Higher trails can be covered with ice and snow and always tell someone where you are going
All year
- Always carry water; food; extra money; mobile phone
- Aim to drink 1.5 litres per day (women), 2 litres (men). Plus 500ml-750ml per hour riding time
- Good snack foods - Malt loaf; museli bars; Banana; Flapjack; Sports Nutrition Bars, sandwiches
- Mountain passes can be cold and wet anytime of the year, dress accordingly carry light extra layers such as mitts; gloves; knee warmers; arm warmers; longs; high visibility wind and waterproofs
- Carry map; compass; tools; spare tubes and know how to use them
- Highland trails can be hard on bikes and bodies - if you have problems fix them BEFORE your ride, not on it.
Riding techniques
- Make sure your saddle is at the correct height
- Starting out - pace yourself, ride steadily for the first 10 minutes, take time to appreciate your surroundings
- In traffic - be aware, ride confidently and predictably, signal boldly
- Off road - rise up on the pedals to unweight the bike to roll through potholes etc.
Riding with kids
- Take care not to ride too far, boost energy levels with plenty of stops and snacks at good view points
- Always wear a helmet!
