Where can I test ride a 29er off road near North London?

[DJC]

I'm interested in replacing my worn out 26" MTB with a 29er as most off my off road riding is on tracks. However, I'd like to try a 29er off road before purchasing to see if the big wheel thing really makes that much difference. I can't find anywhere to try one out off road within 90mins drive of North London. Can anyone advise?

[stoobs]

Dunstable Downs area? North Downs near Box Hill?

South Downs at a very fast stretch.

[DJC]

Thanks for the reply.
I probably did not make myself clear. I don't own a 29er yet but want to test ride, or rent one and ride it off road to see if I like 29ers before purchasing one.

[Drake]

I bet you are all going to shake your heads and laugh at this one . But here goes anyway .

What is a 29er ?

Sorry for such a mundane question . But i've been out of cycling for approx 20yrs and i'm struggling with some terminology at the moment .

[Alex L]

29 inch wheel as opposed to a traditional 26.

[Drake]

Ah !
Thanks for that .

[gilesjuk]

700c wheels on a MTB.

The only options I can think of are near Hemel hempstead and in surrey.

Singular don't officially do demo rides, but Sam is a top bloke and might let you have a go, especially if you want to buy a bike or frame off him. His stuff is highly recommended by me. They even do a frame for off roading with drop bars.

http://www.singularcycles.com/

Or there's head for the hills in surrey:

http://www.head-for-the-hills.co.uk/

[salsafargo]

charlie the bike monger has demo 29ers

[BigAirNig]

You can also try :

www.pedalandspoke.co.uk

In Peaslake, Surrey. Easy to ride around Holmbury on a demo model.....

[PhilWhitehurst]

Graffam water have 29 demo / hire bikes

[Alex L]

How has this topic received 64 thousand views?

[stedlocks]

beacause everyone secretly wants one.....

its a bit like going out with a large lady.....its great fun till your friends find out!!