Extract from "Arran Ride", Andy McCannish, courtesy of Arran Bike Club
"It was the 'black' descent off the hill and was going to be made all the harder as we had just had several inches of rain over the last few days. As we rounded the top and began downhill the trail turned out to be a quagmire in places. The bikes just scooted down all the same, sluicing through the bogs and following the fire break down through the trees. Below us we could see Lamlash roving into view, sun sparkling on the sea to distract the unwary from the job in hand; staying upright and dry! With the last of us dropping through some jaggy juniper bushes there was a brief discussion before we took off along the road into deepest black ride territory ..."
What to expect
Develop existing basic mountain bike skills for technical terrain. Learn how to ride aggressively over rocks, roots and jumps, down steep slopes and drop-offs, through mud, water and dense forest. Learn how to conserve energy on long and steep climbs, rail fast, loose corners and descend at speed on technical trails.
Led by a professional mountain bike leader, this mountain bike session is suitable for people with some experience on mountain bikes who want to progress their technical skills.
The session begins with a short assessment of your skills and experience and an introduction to the session. Transport will be provided up to the start of the trail.
"The mountain biking skills activity was excellent. In fact, so good I actually did it twice!" Niall from Brussels - July 2009
What's Included
- 3-hour mountain bike session with a fully
qualified instructor.
- Trek Hardtail Mountain Bikes with 100mm suspension
forks and a light aluminium frame (you are welcome to
bring your own bike, if suitable for the terrain).
- A helmet.
- Group minibus transport from ferry terminal or
island accommodation on the day of
the activity session.
- Digital photography: a gallery of pictures from your
group's session will be available to download from
your account area of our website.
- Transport to the start of the trail.
What to bring with you
- Waterproof jacket
- 3/4 length or long trousers (to protect your legs
from brambles, etc)
- Sturdy shoes, i.e. trainers
- Bottle or water / juice
Depending on season:
- A warm fleece
- Hat & Gloves
- Insect defence
- Sunglasses
- Any personal medication
Availability
All year round
Cost
£60 per person
Minimum Private Group Size
10 participants (or the cost of 10)
NB: During the autumn and winter period (October 2009-March 2010), we can accommodate smaller groups with a minimum group size of 7 (or the cost of 7).
Private Group Extras
Auchrannie Lunch and Leisure Pass / Isle of Arran Distillery Visit - follow this link for more info.
How to make a booking
Send us an enquiry to check availability for your dates. A deposit of 40% of the total is due to confirm a booking, with the balance due two weeks prior to the event.
Cost
Adult (18+) - £60.00