Bike Choice

Related pages: | Planning a Ride | Direction & timing | Ride options | Getting there | Duration & stop-over points |

Unlike the C2C, which can be ridden on most bikes including racers, the Reivers is a little more restrictive in terms of bike selection. Although the majority of the terrain is tarmac, some of the off-road sections are very loose, uneven and, in the wetter seasons, very claggy. Moreover, several of the long off-road sections have no tarmac alternative.

In the light of the above, many people who have tried the route on their racing bikes have bitterly regretted the decision. So ideally choose a mountain bike for the ride or at least a hybrid/trekking machine. Front suspension is not essential but does help to smooth the ride.

If you are determined to do it on a road bike then it can be done but I would recommend departing from the official route by taking the main roads from Falstone to Newcastleton. This is an attractive route and avoids the tricky terrain of Kielder and Kershope Forests.

For guidance on getting your bike ready for the ride, maintenance and what spare parts to take, see the Preparation pages.

Don't be seduced

Often, people have to buy a bike specifically for the route. They can be on a very tight budget and it is easy to get enticed by the brand-new £99 bike which has all the gizmos including suspension front and rear! Don't do it! These bikes use cheap, heavy materials and they weigh an absolute ton.The suspension systems on these cheapo machines often lack any damping so you'll end up pogo-ing down the road like a kangaroo. They will sap your energy very quickly. If you are on a limited budget, then steer clear of rear suspension and buy a light, hardtail machine or look for a second-hand bargain.

Clocking it

Cycle computers are a great idea for routes such as this. Not only will they help indicate how your pace is going, when read in conjunction with the route map will help indicate when junctions are coming up. There are lots of models available from under a tenner.

Preparing your steed

For tips on bike maintenance and what spares to take see the page for bike preparation.

Evans Cycles - Huge choice of new cycles available on-line from Kona, Specialized, Cannondale, Scott, GT and more...

Bonthrone Bikes - New bikes including Marin, Klein, Giant, GT and Cannondale.

Leisure Lakes Bikes - Massive range of new bikes from Orange, Scott, Specialized etc

Ebay - If you are looking for a real second-hand bargain then this should be your first port of call.