Preparing for the ride

Related pages: | Getting into shape | Preparing your bike | What to take |

Chucking a few items hurriedly into your rucksack and throwing a leg over your rusty steed isn't the best strategy for tackling a 170-mile ride through some of the remotest countryside you are ever likely to encounter in England.

Disasters can and do happen on these routes. What happens if your chain snaps in the middle of Kershope Forest? Or it's 8pm, you've thirty miles to go and not only are you without lights but you've also reached your physical limits as you haven't done any training beforehand?

So making sure that your bike is shipshape and that you have everything you need is just plain common sense. However, don't forget about the most vital component - you. Unless you are in good shape then don't even think about doing a long-haul route such as the Reivers.

	Getting into shape Tips on getting your body ready for the big ride and the type of training you need to be doing. More>
	Preparing your bike Guidance on making sure your bike is up to the task along with suggestions for what bike tools and spares you should take on your ride. More>
	What to take Provides a handy kit checklist along with tips about what to wear. More>

Ultimate Guide to the Reivers Route
Written by Richard Peace this is a detailed 94-page guide to the Reivers route. Includes maps, directions, route descriptions, photographs, accommodation and places of interest. Get one at a good bookshop near you or check out our merchandise page.

C2C & Reivers Accommodation Guide
Written by Mark Porter this 160-page guide provides all the essential accommodation and tourist information for the route. Also includes historical information about the area, maps, bike repair shops, good places to eat and attractions to visit.

Get one at a good bookshop near you or at the Sustrans Shop