Thorn Cycles Forum
Community => Cycle Tours => Topic started by: Matt2matt2002 on February 15, 2014, 10:25:17 AM
-
Mrs. Matt has kindly agreed to let me off the leash for 5 weeks this summer.
My long tour to Turkey and further East was immediately kicked into touch so I have had to think of something almost as exciting and a little nearer home.
Not asking for ideas since it has been decided that I will attempt the 4 or 5 corners of Scotland.
( Mrs. Matt can then come and get me if it rains!!)
My question is, what definition to use.
Mainland, island, inhabited or uninhabited.?
Rough plan so far, since I live in Aberdeen, is to take the ferry to Lerwick and then up to Unst.
This will take care of the most northerly.
Only other spot I plan to hit is St.Kilda which will cover the West.
Anyone any thoughts or experience of this tour?
Not going to be a race. At 60 I will be pleased to finish it in one piece.
Matt
-
Anyone any thoughts or experience of this tour?
Not going to be a race. At 60 I will be pleased to finish it in one piece.
Do it while you can, Matt. Take plenty of photographs for the rest of us.
I'm just waiting for the nurse to arrive so I can go for a ride... which will be a hell of a way short of the four corners of anywhere!
-
Oh! Wonderful, Matt!
All best wishes your way on the upcoming tour -- what a wonderful place to see by bike; it surely is on my own list.
Can't wait to see it all come together for you, then see the results in photos.
Do take care; exciting times.
All the best,
Dan.
-
Best of luck Matt sound like a tough bit of cycling like Andre said I'll look forward to the video ooops i mean photos.Video would be nice though if it wasn't done before it would make for a great film ;)
will you be camping all the way?
jags.
-
Hi Matt
I have done Shetland to Aberdeen on the boat, then cycled along NCN route 1 generally going via Maud, Turriff, Aberchirder, Cullen, Inverness, Wick, then the boat across to St Margaret's Hope on Orkney, onwards to Kirkwall then around mainland Orkney a bit before getting the boat back to Shetland.
Shetland can be really windy and you will have days where the wind is so strong that you struggle to pedal downhill. Basically every other day!
Getting to Shetland is expensive, although the bike goes free on the ferry. Accommodation can be difficult to come by as most of it has been taken over by the gas plant workers. If you do get here the roads are great and most drivers will give you a nice wide berth. It seems the smaller the car the more room they give you.
Stick to places on the mainland. It will work out much cheaper.
The route was done on a M**lt*n, not a Thorn. Not sure if I am allowed to mention it!
-
Matt,
That sounds super exciting. I think we are on the same wavelength as this is (approximately) similar to the trip I want to do when I come over to the UK and 100% the reason I bought my Nomad. Unst would be amazing, and if I had the time I'd do exactly the same, but so far, I think a couple of days on the Orkneys before heading to Thurso and down to Ullapool will be as far north as I will get, before catching the ferry to the Outer Hebrides. And as I think we have talked about earlier, I really want to get 24/48 hours on St Kilda too, although without the Nomad obviously.
While I'm on the northern coast of Scotland up at Durness, I'd love to make a side trip to Cape Wrath, and after a bit of Googling it does seem possible I think, as tourists buses head there, so I am sure a Nomad could do it! I think I catch the ferry from Durness Keoldale Ferry Landing across to the Cape Wrath Ferry Landing then cycle approx 16km, so I've answered my own question
I will be super fascinated by your trip write up. I'm off on my first mutli day-night trip on my Nomad in a couple of days time for 4 days and 3 nights, using my tent for accommodation.
Best regards
Tony
NZ
-
Cape Wrath is certainly worth doing - preferably from Kinlochbervie, using the road to the ferry on the way out, as that is a bit boring.
Do an image search of Sandwood Bay for inspiration.
Then send a photograph of yourself at the lighthouse to join the Cape Wrath Fellowship - details on the CTC routes page.
(Not that I am sad enough to send off a fiver for a certificate to display in the back lavvy or anything like that, you understand).
-
Lemming,
I'm going to work my way down to the Outer Hebrides after Cape Wrath.
And ... never ever suggest a self portrait to me, as I was doing them before the word "selfie" became the word of 2013 ;)
I love a good self portrait challenge. I spend far to many hours on Google Maps looking up places and thinking to myself:
"one of these days I'm going to get a photograph of myself there" I've already started on my collection: http://www.flickr.com/photos/nztony/sets/72157625293643988/
Tony
-
Cape Wrath is certainly worth doing - preferably from Kinlochbervie, using the road to the ferry on the way out, as that is a bit boring.
Do an image search of Sandwood Bay for inspiration.
Then send a photograph of yourself at the lighthouse to join the Cape Wrath Fellowship - details on the CTC routes page.
(Not that I am sad enough to send off a fiver for a certificate to display in the back lavvy or anything like that, you understand).
I'm not aware of any really practical track to take a loaded touring bike between Sandwood Bay and Cape Wrath, it might be possible but would involve a great deal of effort and cursing. Kinlochbervie to Sandwood Bay is a reasonable proposition though as there is a track most of the way.
Tony,
If you go out to Cape Wrath, it is well worth staying a night at Kearvaig bothy on the north coast, http://www.mountainbothies.org.uk/bothy-details.asp?bothy_id=11 if you aren't familiar with bothies, they are very basic accommodation found throughout Scotland (also a few in England & Wales) in generally remote locations, there is no charge to stay at them, and you just turn up and share with whoever else is there, most have open fires or log burners although wood can be hard to find at some, no toilet facilities, except a spade.
A bit similar to the more basic DOC huts in NZ, except built from stone.
There are a reasonable number that are accessible by bike on good tracks and you could put together a good tour trying to stay at as many bothies as you can.
e.g.
Tomsleibhe bothy, Isle of Mull, http://www.flickr.com/photos/rualexander/9874459124/in/set-72157635761518755/lightbox/
Greensykes bothy, borders, http://www.flickr.com/photos/rualexander/9874948483/in/set-72157635761518755/lightbox/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/rualexander/9874929295/in/set-72157635761518755/lightbox/
-
It's the lack of a track beyond Sandwood Bay that makes it interesting!
-
Raul those links are fantastic such a beautiful country.
how far apart are those bothy's,i didn't realize there was so much wilderness in Scotland.
cycling look's mega tough.
jags
-
rualexander
Wow to the Kearvaig bothy, as I did want to stay out by the cape if I went out there and you have given me the 100% perfect answer in Kearvaig and what a stunning location it is in too. I'm a tramper here in NZ, used to staying in DOC Huts, so staying in Highland Bothys shouldn't be a foreign experience.
I'm just awake after my night shift, and am getting myself sorted for Tour no.1 on the Nomad, but I am definitely going to study up on the other links you gave me, but with ideas like yours, this just gets better everyday!
Very many thanks
Tony.
-
Hello Matt
My son walked up the west Coast of Scotland, on a trail, but mostly over rough / open country.
I asked him about riding from Sandalwood Bay to Cape Wrath. He said he thought it might be possible, but very heavy going especially with kit. The heather is short, the hills not too big, but there is no proper path, and streams / fences to cross - he guessed you would be pushing a fair bit of the way and carrying some as well.
Hope that helps your planning.
Lewis
-
As a warm up to the four corners of Scotland tour ( now called The four corners and five Munros Tour - since I will be climbing the nearest Munros to the corners as well as Ben Nevis) - I am having a shake down visit to Shetland in three days time.
I sail from Aberdeen to Lerwick on Tuesday and then see as much of the islands as possible in four days.
Everything weather dependent but I would hope to reach the far North or at least Yell, if not Unst.
Hostel based.
Traveling light with my x2 front Ortlieb panniers on the back plus a sleeping bag for the ferry trips.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-g0nUIuptGxE/U0e9Up8dYkI/AAAAAAAACGI/ptotL5Y4_gU/w958-h719-no/IMG_20140411_105948.jpg)
If you look real careful, directly above the rear panniers you may spot a helicopter on the tree line.
I was parked up near Aberdeen helipad where the 'copters fly into from the oil rigs.
Whenever I hear a 'copter I always think of that clip from Apocalypse Now.
Matt
-
What a lovely photo, Matt; thanks so much for sharing it.
Best of luck on your tour. I believe I'd replace that rear tire before going, minimizing any chance for Trouble.
All the best,
Dan.
-
Hi Matt,
if you would like to meet up for a cuppa or to compare hub noises, please mail me.
Weather doesn't look too bad for your stay, breezy but not too windy, lucky you missed out this weekend.
Jork (in Shetland)
-
Matt, what a great trek you'll be doing! Hiking the West Highland Way a few years ago, I met a guy going south just near the northern end of Loch Lomond. He was on a regular fixie city bike, lightly loaded. The trail was clear enough, of course, but he had to carry his bike a bit.
Loved the daffs on your photo, and found the 'copter too.
Whenever I hear a 'copter I always think of that clip from Apocalypse Now.
You could always put "The Ride of the Valkyries" on your iPod :-)
Look forward to your stories from the summer. (Maybe see if Rual could lend you a camera -- you'll be guaranteed good weather.)
J.
-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dahGaL6ehjc&list=UU72nZ26ikgDQVdt90ENBmXg&index=29
this is fantastic if you havent seen it already.
jags
-
I just hope that the weather improves for you. The winds are up to 32 mph at the moment and I was snow on at the bus shelter this morning!
Looking at my weather app it's windy, up to 40mph at worst and mostly dry.
@Jork - I thought that I was the only Thorn owner in Shetland, but it might not be the case after all.
-
Andy, I bought after a lot of deliberation a Raven last October and havn't regretted it so far. So there are at least two Thorns in Shetland now. Jork
-
Matt
Wow, I can not wait to read your trip report (and photos) of your Shetland adventure - that is the kind of thing I'd love to do too - I find remote islands fascinating, I spend hours on night shift exploring them on Google Earth and Street View. I wonder if I should add the Shetlands to my proposed Scotland, Orkney Islands, Outer Hebrides itinerary? I could be very easily convinced I think!
Tony
-
Hi folks
Many thanks for all your good wishes.
Looks like I will be bringing a third Thorn to the island.
I will pm the x2 residents and perhaps meet up if it gets too hot and I need some shade.
Matt
-
Bring a hat and gloves for the moment you stop to take a break!
Andy
-
The old bird has arrived in Shetland. Please note that despite having just done 12 miles in force 5 to 7 wind and rain Matt is still smiling. It was a pleasure to meet him (and her of course).
-
Many thanks for the hospitality. Soup was fantastic. :)
Great to meet up with a fellow Thorn owner.
Matt
-
Aw, what a terrific photo of the meet-up as well! Always very nice to meet other Thornies when out and about. You both look terrific, and so to the bikes!
Looking closely at the photo, there's bound to be a shaggy dog story in there as well! :D
All the best, and best of luck on the remainder of your tour, Matt. You're off on a wonderful ride!
Dan.
-
well done lads great photo 8)
-
Keep on posting photos! I enjoy seeing both the bikes and the scenery. I would love to tour Scotland, but that is a far-off dream (young kids and family responsibilities now). My grandfather was born in Methlick, and lived there until he emigrated to Canada when he was 23. My great- and great-great grandfathers are buried in the old churchyard there. I've travelled through the UK (but sadly, not Ireland yet), and I really like seeing the pictures -- so that I can at least tour vicariously through you. :)
- Dave
-
Hi Dave.
I live less than 10 miles from Methlick.
Want me to pop across to the graveyard and locate your ancestors?
Or perhaps you have been there yourself already?
I have to get back to the ranch before being able to upload pictures but thanks for the compliments
Matt
-
Hi Matt --
My one and only time (so far) to visit Scotland was in 2000. We saw the churchyard in Methlick, and also visited my great-grandfather's farm at Cairnorrie (near B9170 and Monteach Road) and saw the Cairnorrie school that my grandfather attended as a child. The farm is no longer in the family, but it meant a lot to me to be able to see my roots. I could imagine him working in the fields there, and dreaming about distant lands, where he eventually ended up. (He and his friend were actually hoping to get to Australia, but his money ran out in Canada. That's why I'm Canadian. I could have been an Aussie!)
Thanks for the offer for visit for me!
- Dave
-
We (Monica and I) met the lithe and youthful Matt. Sadly I didn't have my bike with me so we had a meal together.
I think that we talked the poor bloke to death! At least he has met the two furthest north (in the UK) Thorn owners though.
No photos - the interwebs is not ready for my face. Things haven't sunk that far yet!
-
Sunny with light winds in Shetland today!
-
Recently returned from my trip to Shetland from Aberdeen
Made extremely welcome by fellow Raven riders and their partners on my first day there.
Many thanks Hille Jork Monica and Andy.
Brief summary of thoughts, impressions and stats.
In no particular order.
Hostel - first class. Well equipped. £20 per night.
Roads - first class. Smooth tarmac. A couple of long slow hills outside Lerwick but generally pretty flat.
Drivers ( plenty of lorries about - with the oil & construction work going on ) - no complaints - given plenty of room.
Waves - being an island - loads - but from the locals - frequent friendly waves. That always perks me up.
My brakes - awful. I have fore and aft Blue Swiss top. Absolute nightmare in the rain. I believe Thorn only fit one end of their bikes now with these - (and I use the term loosly) brakes. I can honestly say they spoilt my total enjoyment of some rides.
Self inflicted - so don't count this as a negative against the trip.
Birds - an ideal ornithological destination.
Locals - 101% helpful. I stopped a few times to chat with folk and often as not, they were not from the island. Quite a few incomers due to the oil work I guess. First lady I spoke to was from USA. Second was Lithuanian.
Weather - mixed - and its the wind that gets to you as much as the rain.
But not a negative. Expected what I got and had the right gear. So head down and battle on.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ZP1n6SscPpo/U1D3x_zAE3I/AAAAAAAACWU/usYvTyWyCMw/w958-h719-no/IMG_20140418_101955.jpg)
Ferry to and from Shetland. Excellent service. Able to crash out on the deck (inside) in my sleeping bag - avoiding a cabin or seat fee.
Managed to blag a senior citizen ticket even though not over 65 ( my bus pass counted!)
The Orkney stop off at 11pm wakes you up if you've nodded off.
Raven - no problems at all.
Thanks to Dan and all the other forum members who have given me good advice over that past year,
I had total confidence in the Old Bird and she never missed a beat. Even when the wind blew her over outside the pub in Voe.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-QLK4i5APydY/U06Ls4ZKTkI/AAAAAAAACPk/b5IQwouQzsU/w958-h719-no/IMG_20140416_145451.jpg)
Matt
-
CLASSSSSSS
;D
-
Welcome back Matt! I'm currently hatching a plot for this years short tour and your pics make Shetland look enticing.
Sorry to hear of the brake issues. This has been reported by a number of folk. My own experience is the swissstop blues with CSS rims are no worse than any other rim brake in the wet. I can't account for the differing experiences. I will have to decide soon as my CSS rims are approaching 13500 miles and I cannot expect them to last for ever! I'll definitely have them again on the rohloff but might go for plain on the front.
-
Matt
This is absolutely fascinating. I'm hoping you will be posting lots and lots more photos and a detailed description of the route you took? My new Nomad (Dec 2013) is CSS on the rear and plain on the front, which is the new Thorn recommendation. Up to mid 2013 their recommendation was CSS on front and rear but their latest brochure has gone for what I have - I simply just followed their recommendations for most parts on my bike.
Tony
-
Welcome back Matt! I'm currently hatching a plot for this years short tour and your pics make Shetland look enticing.
Sorry to hear of the brake issues. This has been reported by a number of folk. My own experience is the swissstop blues with CSS rims are no worse than any other rim brake in the wet. I can't account for the differing experiences. I will have to decide soon as my CSS rims are approaching 13500 miles and I cannot expect them to last for ever! I'll definitely have them again on the rohloff but might go for plain on the front.
Jork, who I met on Shetland, has one wheel with CSS. Not sure if front of rear.
Someone here will soon tell us what is best.
I was truely frightened at times on a couple of long downhill stretches. I had the wind behind me pushing me faster and faster. As hard as I squeezed the brake levers, nothing was happening. It was not a question of frequent dabs on the levers to clear the rain; that didn't work. The rain was steady but not a downpour.
Worse than normal brakes?
Definately, yes.
Please let me know if I can help,out with more details on Shetland.
Matt
-
Wonderful tour report and photos, Matt! Thanks so much for posting them, and welcome back!
All the best,
Dan.
-
Welcome home Matt, it sounds as though it was a smashing trip, and glad to hear the weather didn't dampen your spirits.
Regards ,Alfie
-
So glad you had a great time Matt, and nice pics too. :D
Jim
-
i remember when i fitted the koolstop salmon on my sherpa, i put them on back to front ,well we can all make mistakes only discovered my blunder on a wet ride going down hill at breakneck speed .nothing i mean nothing the bike kept going when i pulled the breakes ;D ;D ;D.
Anto.
-
I was truely frightened at times on a couple of long downhill stretches. I had the wind behind me pushing me faster and faster. As hard as I squeezed the brake levers, nothing was happening. It was not a question of frequent dabs on the levers to clear the rain; that didn't work. The rain was steady but not a downpour.
Worse than normal brakes?
Definately, yes.
Agreed. CSS & swiss-(dont)stops are really bad in the wet. Really really bad.
Nice report and pics btw
-
Matt --
Great photos, and I like your summary of the trip.
That's too bad about the brakes. I had heard of the bad wet braking of the Blue pads, so I went with Kool-stop on my CSS front rim. They have been decent in the rain. I have a disc brake on the rear, because I do a lot of wet weather riding, and nothing beats disc brakes in the rain.
- Dave
-
Agreed. CSS & swiss-(dont)stops are really bad in the wet. Really really bad.
Nice report and pics btw
So their USP is not wearing out?
If you live long enough.....
-
So their USP is not wearing out?
If you live long enough.....
So they guarantee their brakes for the lifetime of the owner? ;)
(Beware of parachutes with the same guarantee.)
- Dave
-
I had the exact same experience in heavy rain with CSS rims and those blue blocks.
I was riding in the CTC KM rally and it was embarassing/frightening not being able to stop for some road junctions.
I ended up putting a foot down some times…
I tried the black koolstop and they were a bit better in the wet.
I have just had the front rim replaced by a non CSS Andra, still have to test it in the very heavy rain, but that can wait.
Davefife (http://www.davesbikeshed.co.uk/home)has done a great job for me, recommended if you are near Edinburgh.
julk
-
Many thanks.
Did you go for the front since it would be easier/cheaper or is there a 'stopping power' reason.
I hate spending my money but after the experience in the wet on Shetland (unloaded) I am seriously considering it.
Matt
-
Matt,
I went for the front only on the basis that most braking is provided by the front wheel.
I have replaced the blue blocks with koolstop red/black dual compound which I found very effective on Sun Rhynos on a previous bike.
Leaving the Rohloff with a CSS rim seems to be the best idea since both have very long expected life and braking in the slightly wet and dry is still very effective, although I will be relying on the front in the heavy rain.
I will be seeing how effective this combination is, but sadly it will have to wait for me being caught out in a downpour.
I don’t normally plan to ride in the very heavy rain.
Julian.
-
So their USP is not wearing out?
If you live long enough.....
I'm glad you returned without having a literally smashing time, Matt. Think I'll give those CSS rims and Salmon brake blocks a miss. Your and Jags' and Julk's experience sounds like more excitement than a recreational cyclist needs, wants -- or deserves.
-
Hi Matt
Glad to hear you had such a good trip and that despite all the issues with the brakes that you still got home safe and sound. I hope you manage to find a good / yet not too expensive remedy to the braking issue. As others have said the current thinking would suggest replacing your front rim with a non css rim and changing to standard brake pads.
Might be worth speaking to Thorn and see if they can do you a good deal on a rebuild. Not that I want to put the cat among the pigeons but I am sure if it was a car we were talking about it would be a safety recall issue.
Andy
-
Thanks guys, I was about to buy a spare set of blues. I haven't ridden in bad rain yet so it is a Joy to "look forward" to.
-
I've been running standard alloy Grizzly rims complete with Koolsstop Salmon pads / XTR V's on the RST for perhaps 12 months now & the braking is second to none. Highly recommended.
-
Brummie i need kool stop salmon refils for my brakes where is the best place to buy.
cheers
jags.
-
Jags, Mine are Non-Cartridge pads ! I'm not sure whether cartridge pads are available in the Salmon flavour? Maybe contact Dave W @ sjs - he's a fountain of knowledge.. or maybe Dan will chip in with an answer?
-
Cheers Brummie they can be got ok just i need the cheapest place to buy you understand. ;D
-
i need kool stop salmon refils for my brakes where is the best place to buy.
...and...maybe Dan will chip in with an answer?
I just sourced some for AndyBG, so I have the links already: ;D
Kool-Stop Salmon-colored pads:
If you already have the Shimano aluminum alloy pad holders on your bike (my Deores had 'em...the pad slips in from behind and is retained by a small clevis clip through a hole), then the pads you want are these (they come with new clevis pins or you can use the originals, but they tend to get lost on removal):
http://www.sjscycles.co.uk/koolstop-kool-stop-v-brake-inserts-salmon-for-wet-and-muddy-prod22269/?geoc=us
They are what I used in mine for Sherpa's Shimano Deore holders and now again for the Nomad's. A perfect fit in each and a *very* good price. They appear to be the same as these, which is what I have:
http://sheldonbrown.com/harris/brakeshoes.html#vrefill I don't have the Duro2 ( http://www.sjscycles.co.uk/koolstop-koolstop-dura-2-shimano-compatible-inserts-prod31819/?geoc=us ), but I think they would work also. f you have different brakes, the check the ad copy carefully.
In any case, I'd suggest getting the *salmon* ones. I have found them to work best on all conditions and especially in the wet. They are also the most rim-friendly, meaning they cause very, very little wear to alloy rims. My rando bike has done over 28,000mi on its Mavic MA-2 rims with these pads and both are still fine. I still have some of the older, bonded (glued) fin-backed Mathauser pads using this same salmon formula dating from 1978 and they're still good and stop well on the bikes equipped with them.
Hope this helps.
Best,
Dan.
-
cheers dan i'll order them in the next month or so still a few miles left on these.
anto.
-
I'll be spending a week in Scotland this June, Matt. I can't Wait. The plan is to get off road a bit, going over some high sections between Corran to Fort Augustus, and the Corrieyairack, plus a couple of parts of the West Highland Way: near Fort William towards Glen Coe and besides Loch Lomond. As it's a short trip I'm not going to fly over with my Nomad, and will just botrrow a friend's bike. He has a Raven, but he'll ride that, so I'll be on his spare mountain bike.
The Hebrides are super. It's a part of the world I'd like to revisit. Here are some pics from my last ride there - I was pretty lucky with the weather for a few days...
-
Great stuff, Matt, and welcome home! Sounds like a great trip, aside from the braking: new terrain, new friends, bike and rider happy.
FWIW, my Raven--due to see the light of day on Tuesday--has a slightly different wheel-and-brake setup, with Velocity Cliffhanger rims (machined sidewalls) fore & aft and Koolstop dual-compound pads. I decided not to fit CSS rims, because of reports of experience like yours. Could you have the front wheel re-built, replacing the front rim? Never cheap, I know, but peace of mind is good.
-
Matt, I haven't had a problem in the wet with my Swissstop Blue pads on the rear (only) Rigida CSS rim...
-
Hi Cycladelic.
Please contact me nearer the time of you trip.
I'd be very pleased to help out and or put you up for a night.
I am 18 miles outside of Aberdeen.
Perhaps not the side of Scotland you will be visiting?
I have done parts of the West coast so please keep in touch.
Matt
-
I'd be very pleased to help out and or put you up for a night.
I am 18 miles outside of Aberdeen.
Matt
That's very kind of you, Matt, but we'll be heading west from Inverness, over to Applecross and via the high pass. After that it's the off-road trail from Connor towards Fort Augustus, over the 800m-high track south and then west to Fort William. We'll ride on the west shore of Loch Etive and the final leg is beside Loch Lomond on the West Highland Way.
If you feel up to some more adventure, bring your tent. I've allowed 8 days.
-
I go to Fort William from time to time and yesterday found out I can take by bike and myself for free from my home to Inverness.
So, yes, it is a good posibiity for us to meet.
Please give me some dates nearer the time you are here.
Matt
-
Quick update folks.
First the good news and then the even better news.
On Friday I will take that bus I reffered to in my previous post, from Inverurie to Inverness ( free since I am 60 and a half).
Then cycle down the East side of Loch Ness to Fort William (70+ miles).
2 nights in a hostel at the foot of Ben Nevis.
Will pop up (& down!) Ben N. and then watch my wonderful daughter complete her triathlon. ( swim near Edinburgh, bike to Glenco and then run to Fort Bill via Ben Nevis ).
Reverse for me on Monday.
Sounds good?
You bet. But then it gets better.
Just saw my boss and he agreed to give me 6 weeks off for my planned 4 corners of Scotland tour.
Had to have that in place before I could commit to the trip.
More details to follow nearer set off date.
July 4th.
Matt
-
Matt your boss will surly get to heaven.
-
Matt your boss will surly get to heaven.
I nearly leaped over his desk and gave him a hug.
But I draw the line somewhere.
;)
-
;D ;D ;D
-
Just lost a posting I started here. So, in brief. Tour under way. Starting off in Shetland. Hit the most northerly tip but then disaster struck. Front chain ring stripped of grip. Worn cogs would not turn chain. Happened all of a sudden. Is this common. No warningat all. Loaded bike may have BRI g it on?
Second bike shop in town after a 2 hour bus ride had just one ring that would fit. Slightly larger than my 32 so he had to adjust the EBB.
Looks like its worked so that show rolls on.
Great weather, great folk and great scenery.
-
Glad to hear you're sorted, Matt, and underway again. Half a day wasted finding a chainring must be better than many alternatives.
-
If you had rung me Matt I would only have been able to offer a 50 tooth, but at least you would have been going downhill faster!
-
Thanks folks.
Chain ring holding out although there are gaps between the chain and the ring. Dan has advised me that the chain (an old one) will have stretched and not sit well along the cogs.
It does not skip and pulls well so will keep it on until back at the ranch.
Tour continues. Did at 92 mile ride down from the top of Scotland - Thurso, to Lairg. Lovely countryside.
Then a hop across to Ullapool and caught h ferry to Stornoway.
Lady in the info office had a Nomad herself.
Then a run down to Leverburgh and a 3 day wait for the boat trip to St. Kilda.
Very frustrating since both boat tour companies cancelled due to various reasons.
Decided to cut my loses and head across to Skjye where another company sails from.
But he's not going until the 23rd!
I'll hang around here for awhile decided what to do.
I'll climb the highest Munro later in the week. That should kill one day!
So good to be out on the road, either camping or hosteling
And so good to have a back up team here for technical support.
Np pictures yet due to computer access probs.
Matt
-
That's a shame about the delay to the trip to St. Kilda.
There is free access to computers/internet at the all highland libraries, the nearest library to Uig is Portree, 14 miles by the main road but much more scenic round the coast road, there are some beautiful walks, one particular being the Quiraig.
-
Many thanks.
The libraries have been a god send while away. I have used them in Lerwick Portree and Broadford. Plus several more.
I now find myself on the Isle of Eigg at a music festival.
Quite by chance. I met a guy going there as I took the ferry to Mallaig. And I thought, why not.
Excellent island with great beaches and scenery.
And there is free music until 4 am!
Ouch.
Raven behaving superbly.
Let's hope I do.
Matt
-
Many thanks.
The libraries have been a god send while away. I have used them in Lerwick Portree and Broadford. Plus several more.
I now find myself on the Isle of Eigg at a music festival.
Quite by chance. I met a guy going there as I took the ferry to Mallaig. And I thought, why not.
Excellent island with great beaches and scenery.
And there is free music until 4 am!
Ouch.
Raven behaving superbly.
Let's hope I do.
Matt
You headbanger, you!
-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NK45dJotWvQ
matt is enjoying music like this.
well i hope he is.
jags.
-
Thanks.
Yes, that's one of the kinds of music.
When someone told me Beth Orton was playing here, for some reason I thought I was going to see Beth Ditt
Not quite the same!
-
Day 22
Arrived in Fort William yesterday after a night of wild camping.
Not wild as in drinking all night, wild as in behind an empty building.
Weather has been kind - so hot at times a risk of sun-burn.
Climbed Ben Nevis and today a chill out and wash some smelly clothes day.
Met Gary from OZ on a brand new Raven - no Rholoff hub though.
He rode it up from down South and will ship it back home in a few weeks time.
Pictures to follow.
My own bike behaving itself 101%
It's the way they build them!
Matt
-
Hello folks,
That's me home safe after 32 days on the road, all around Scotland.
The last leg took me down through Fort William, Oban, Arran, to the Mull of Galloway.
Then back up through Dumfries and Galloway, Glasgow, Perth and back to Aberdeen.
Many thanks to those who helped out on the way. Especially Dan, who was excellent, as usual, despite having a few wee problems of his own!
Anyone needing advice on touring Scotland, or an over night stay in Aberdeen, please PM me.
Matt
Pictures to follow
-
well done matt sounds like you had a blast. ;)
-
Wow, now that's an adventure. Looking forward keenly to the photos.
-
Hi Matt,
Well done to the man from Aberdeen. It sounds as though it was a thoroughly enjoyable trip. Hopefully you have taken loads of photographs to share with the lads on the forum, along with a wee blog of places and events.
Regards,Alfie
-
Great trek, Matt! Well done to you and da Raven. Look forward to your fotos & tall tales in due course.
-
Well done Matt, that's some adventure!
-
Thanks for the kind words, Matt. I think I've enjoyed your tour via reports and photos almost as much as you have!
What a stellar, outstanding job you've done. Really proud of you and you can be proud of yourself. A model cycle-tourist!
Now, about that round the world tour you're planning...! Can't wait to hear as it comes together.
All the best,
Dan. (...who is pleased to hear of your safe return but a little dad it is over)
-
Sounds like a great adventure. Do you have a website with some pictures. I'd be interested in the route as well.
-
Sounds like a great adventure. Do you have a website with some pictures. I'd be interested in the route as well.
Pictures coming up.
I'll do 4 or 5 of the best over the first few days, and see how it goes.
Route?
Yes - no probs.
I live in Aberdeen so took a ferry - over night to Lerwick.
Stayed in a Bod/ Hostel for 2 nights on Yell and popped up to the top - Muckle Flugga.
Then back to Thurso via Orkney.
Down to Lairg
Across to Ullapoll/ Stornoway.
Down to Leverburgh - waited 4 days for a boat to St. Kilda - but no luck ( long storey)
Back up to Tarbert and across to Skye.
Down to Glenbrittle.
Across to Mallaig and then a 4 day diverson to Eigg for a music festival
Back to Mallaig / Fort William / Ben Nevis.
Oban Arran Girvan.
Down to the bottom - Mull of Galloway
Back up through Dumfries and Galloway to see pals.
Then Glasgow - to see pals
Then Perth to see a pal
Then home to Inverurie - Aberdeenshire.
32 days away from home 1,000 miles +
Didnt hurry it.
Wet weather for the last 6 days -sun burn for the first half.
Pm me for more info on route
Matt
-
Pictures from my first day
Ticket to ride - the ferry was over-night
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/gOyjDNIy0zWD_5HJRQzMHELN-ytHzQz-HNHL6s_1BMo=w273-h204-p-no)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-J_TANQtLXEQ/U-THwEhSxeI/AAAAAAAAFuM/7z_EfWEp3EY/w958-h719-no/DSCF0006.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/qo72v4aa44TqWMzIt0VSyqs2qFBH7qAF7czrFpkl7p4=w958-h719-no)
You even get a viking pointing the way
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-NkWINRdy3xQ/U-TGii5DTiI/AAAAAAAAFtk/qaUIj2vfu38/w958-h719-no/DSCF0112.JPG)
Nice streets in Lerwick
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-D-Y9nSbrFrE/U-THf7sS3fI/AAAAAAAAFuE/Z_OpBczn2tw/w574-h765-no/DSCF0002%281%29.JPG)
-
Great tour.
But you seem to have missed one of the corners, what about the Scottish Borders region?!
-
Looks like the kind of tour on which you want to read J B Priestley's The Good Companions every night in your tent. -- Andre Jute
Pictures coming up.
I'll do 4 or 5 of the best over the first few days, and see how it goes.
Route?
Yes - no probs.
I live in Aberdeen so took a ferry - over night to Lerwick.
Stayed in a Bod/ Hostel for 2 nights on Yell and popped up to the top - Muckle Flugga.
Then back to Thurso via Orkney.
Down to Lairg
Across to Ullapoll/ Stornoway.
Down to Leverburgh - waited 4 days for a boat to St. Kilda - but no luck ( long storey)
Back up to Tarbert and across to Skye.
Down to Glenbrittle.
Across to Mallaig and then a 4 day diverson to Eigg for a music festival
Back to Mallaig / Fort William / Ben Nevis.
Oban Arran Girvan.
Down to the bottom - Mull of Galloway
Back up through Dumfries and Galloway to see pals.
Then Glasgow - to see pals
Then Perth to see a pal
Then home to Inverurie - Aberdeenshire.
32 days away from home 1,000 miles +
Didnt hurry it.
Wet weather for the last 6 days -sun burn for the first half.
Pm me for more info on route
Matt
-
Looks like the kind of tour on which you want to read J B Priestley's The Good Companions every night in your tent. -- Andre Jute
Never you mind who I had in my tent every night......
-
Great tour.
But you seem to have missed one of the corners, what about the Scottish Borders region?!
Ah ha.
Someone is on the ball.
My 4 corners were intended to be....
Mukle Flugga, north
St. Kilda, west
Mull of Galloway, south
Peterhead, east
I did north and south.
West was a no go, due to the boats not running, but I was on Harris, so kinda west.
East is Peterhead and its up the road from where I live, so although I have been there in the past, I'll pop up at the weekend.
There are various ways of ticking off the 4 corners. Mainland, islands, inhabited islands etc.
Only specifics I read about was the Scottish end to end. Mull of Galloway to JOG.
I didn't mention it, but I also attempted to climb the nearest Munro to each corner plus Ben Nevis.
I did 3 out of 5
Matt
-
Ah ha.
Someone is on the ball.
My 4 corners were intended to be....
Mukle Flugga, north
St. Kilda, west
Mull of Galloway, south
Peterhead, east
I did north and south.
West was a no go, due to the boats not running, but I was on Harris, so kinda west.
East is Peterhead and its up the road from where I live, so although I have been there in the past, I'll pop up at the weekend.
There are various ways of ticking off the 4 corners. Mainland, islands, inhabited islands etc.
Only specifics I read about was the Scottish end to end. Mull of Galloway to JOG.
I didn't mention it, but I also attempted to climb the nearest Munro to each corner plus Ben Nevis.
I did 3 out of 5
Matt
-
Hello folks,
That's me home safe after 32 days on the road, all around Scotland.
The last leg took me down through Fort William, Oban, Arran, to the Mull of Galloway.
Then back up through Dumfries and Galloway, Glasgow, Perth and back to Aberdeen.
Matt
Pictures to follow
I love that shot of the ship's side, Matt. Very clever.
We also had reasonable weather, with just a bit of drizzle on a couple of days. Our arcing route went west from Inverness, around to Applecross, then over the high road to Loch Carron. After that, we headed to General Wade's road from Fort Augustus. We got to Glasgow via Loch Lomond.
Here are some of my snaps...
-
Wonderful pictures. I didn't manage the Apllecross part. But its on my to do list for sure.
-
Wonderful pictures. I didn't manage the Apllecross part. But its on my to do list for sure.
It didn't seem too difficult going from the village of Applecross. Coming the other way would be steeper.
Here's another photo - my wife heading down Glen Etive, which runs south off the top of Glen Coe...
-
Nice one. I've done the Glencoe area a few times.
Must say, I found the Cullins on Skye more impressive, and less traffic!
Days 2&3
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hNoqoyKZN1oprW4LSFZLxXhOXV4KB8mYyiyFWAY4Trs=w958-h719-no)
On Shetland there are BODS. Hostels run by the Council £10 per night. Very cozy indeed. Windhouse is the main derelict building nearby. Haunted they say.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/imS-5Bp5F8zXmKIeJa8l8Sa_U3y0dV4xVz0ldp9smEQ=w958-h719-no)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/TVEEWUdH_tAIzuOcVrvJlgc-76ckJYDqBLYoQsrqKMg=w958-h719-no)
I rode to the very top -
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/NJW7Kr1t6ZY0sCc4l4H0wz2gScURHT47pWEYiHP2kEU=w958-h719-no)
Muckle Flugga lighthouse over my shoulder. Unmanned now.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/r4JMZWsQmU42qxFlsyEzVNQDGMj1GdQq8arKc_QaTLo=w958-h719-no)
Outside Lerwick museum.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ah2_26QC1iTHzc7MKrOok-_W2k2cfKqrGzn0XAMEVSs=w958-h719-no)
Old man of Hoy from the ferry to Orkney
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-8x1ITyBQIBE/U8PfBIgEKqI/AAAAAAAAEhI/FG4MK604WBw/w958-h719-no/DSCF0024.JPG)
Kirkwall, Orkney.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-czCz4mHvWkE/U8PYnxTIXmI/AAAAAAAAEcc/yGW2QD0rsnI/w958-h719-no/DSCF0016.JPG)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/lQBKomxgSiuvG_GLLHfvBH0Fz988JUHZkVU_pNE9J44=w958-h719-no)
They do a good sunset up there.
-
Must say, I found the Cullins on Skye more impressive, and less traffic!
Yes, Matt... the traffic up Glen Coe was nasty. There's no shoulder and it's a busy route. Going down Glen Etive is totally different, though. It's a cul-de-sac.
I found Skye to be pretty busy too when I toured there a few years ago... here are two snaps:
-
I did Skye top to bottom, Uig,Glenbrittle and Mallaig.
Traffic was naghty at times apart from the dead end diversion to Glenbrittle. Nice camp site and beach there BTW.
Best traffic was on Isle of Eigg but that's a bit of a cheat coz it only has 1 road. Spent 4 fantastic days there.
Matt
-
Nice, Matthew, almost like being on tour with you.
-
class ;)
-
Splendid photos, Matt, esp the sunsets. Nice of Rual to lend you his camera, the one with all the blue-sky scenes!
-
Thanks John, and co.
When I took the sun set ones there was about 30 of us jockeying for position over the rear rail of the ferry.
A few sharp elbows came I to play from time to time. Quite competative are photographers!
As the sun finally sank from view I looked behind the gathered group and said, "Look, there's another one". And I swear 10 folk turned to look.