ROUTE

Thanks to Ali Jardine for the maps

Download a printable map of the route here > >

The route is circular and the ride is all on tarmac roads (ideal for road bikes). It starts and ends at the Peebles Hydro Hotel.

We will start the ride at 9am and everybody will begin at the same time.

The basic ride is 50 miles, but there is an extra 20 mile loop (which, incidentally, happens to take in a big hill) for the seasoned riders.

There will be several Bum Stops around the route where you can pick up water, chocolate (a sandwich at the middle stop) and psychological counselling.

It is 20 years since I started the Big Bad Bike Ride and for those of you who have not been to Scotland before, you will be amazed by the beautiful scenery. (I should warn you that you may see none of it, as Scotland is notoriously fickle when it comes to predicting the weather.)

The route itself is ‘undulating’.That means it goes up, then it goes down, then up again! There are two big hills and one very fast and steep downhill stretch on which riders need to take great care.

We will mark up the route and you will not need a map, a fully functioning brain will do. Unfortunately people have forgotten to bring their brain in the past, so make sure you pack it.

There will be no times or placing and consequently no need to speed, as safety is our prime concern.

The very nature of this ride is to help others, so please do not take any unnecessary risks.

The ride will be well marked and if you get a puncture or have difficulties, it is always best to walk forward as International Rescue will eventually scoop you up. If it’s too dark and you are lost, light a fire, make a bivouac and pray (this is where you might want to think about your religion).

Mobiles only work at the top of the mountain, so those of you with gizmos that do everything for you are completely stuffed.

If we feel that anyone is taking too long and is creating a risk for others or tying up all our resources, we will either ask you to retire and get on our pick up truck or we will shoot you and inform your relations of your suicide.

Seriously, you need to take on a reponsibility of riding safely and not endangering others...

Always try to stay with other riders or keep within sight of them.