What kind of bike do I need to cycle the south downs way?

thescrubber · Post by **thescrubber** » 26 Mar 2007, 8:42pm

Hi - does anyone know if it is essential to have a mountain bike to cycle the South Downs Way or would you be able to do it on a hybrid/ touring bike :lol:

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Reynard · Post by **Reynard** » 26 Mar 2007, 9:00pm

Sections of the SDW are easily passable on a tourer or hybrid with chunky tyres. however other sections (including some swift downhills) are eroded with loose surfaces and exposed flints. I personally wouldn't attempt it as a whole without an MTB.

keepontriking · Post by **keepontriking** » 26 Mar 2007, 10:49pm

It was a doddle when I covered it using my touring bike.

However that was before the invention of the MTB :wink:

Greg · Post by **Greg** » 27 Mar 2007, 12:03am

So how long ago was that, then? May the way have eroded since then?

Post by **Graham** » 27 Mar 2007, 1:22pm

I would not try it on less than an MTB.
On touring or hybrid you would spend even more time looking at the track surface under your front wheel. You would be guaranteed a rough and uncomfortable ride.
Over longer distances rough & uncomfortable would become unpleasant and intolerable.

I ride the western end on a full-susser, but I'm getting on a bit ( in years).

thescrubber · Post by **thescrubber** » 1 Apr 2007, 7:14pm

thanks -

we are touring along the south coast in the next few days - if its not possible on the south downs way we are going to try going along the roads - any suggestions as to a good route?

Post by **Graham** » 4 Apr 2007, 11:54am

For detailed and up-to-date info on the South Downs Way see this post . .
http://forum.ctc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?t=5246