Cycling UK Forum

Thanks all.

Thanks both. Can you give me your general impressions of the route. We are a bit torn between following a recognised route or making up our own one.

Hi. We are planning to cycle from Basle to Hook of Holland along route 15. Do people know if there is a good suppy of campsites along the route? Thanks.

Thats it!

As it is Hebridean touring time, I wonder if many people know that there is a private ferry that takes bikes from Jura to the Knapdale peninsula, Tayvalich. Its a lovely village with a friendly campsite and surrounded by quality woods. It means that you can get onto and then leave Jura from different places.

Thanks. And if you had your time again, would you choose a hub over a derailleur system?

I'd second the Knapdale coast. Quiet cycling, wonderful woods, the campsite, view across to Jura,and the private road. There is also a private ferry which runs every day from Jura to Knapdale which could be handy. Can't remember the name of the village it comes into on Knapdale but it is lovely and there is a friendly campsite there.

Yes, thanks, I guess I would also need to try it out for this reason as well. I was also wondering whether anyone has experience of hub gears, reliability/no quick release etc.

Thanks for that. I've never had a touring bike before but am aware they will be heavier, but as you imply, just how heavy do I want it! I was also wondering if anyone had any feedback on the Alfina gears. The bike is £599. They have only got one which is my size. Seems very good value, but I guess it would be silly to rush at it if it isn't quite right. Its just about in range for a day out to the shop to give it a try!

We were in this area recently. The Knapdale peninsulas were very good.

I've come across a Ridgeback Voyager with an 8 speed Alfine hub, at a good price, right size, whilst i was in fact searching for a Ridgeback Panorama. I think I'm right in saying that the Voyager would be lower spec. However, would people think this would be a good buy for a touring bike, with average use over say 15 years? Should I hang out for a Panorama? I have had one opinion that said he thought the gear ratios would be ok, even though there are only 8 of them. It does seem very good value. Thanks.