Everything about Mountain Biking in the North East of England

Blue Monday

According to the papers Mon 21st january was the most depressing day of the year, probably the wettest too. We were probably the only four idiots in the North east who attempted a MTB ride. From a significantly damp Clay Bank carpark, we made our way the steps onto Urra Moor, at the top of Carr Ridge we got the full force of the wind/rain/snow/sleet, already soaked despite three layers topped with Goretex, a tactical withdrawal was called for. Backs to the wind, the descent to Medd Crag was almost fun, the rest of the way down to the Urra road, we rode through a stream, which is normally a pleasant technical singletrack. For once tarmac is a welcome relief and soon we are back at Clay Bank. Shortest ride this year - a whole 6.5 miles.