This ride (Sunday 14 May) is designed to provide scope for new mountain bike riders to develop their confidence, skills and fitness without requiring high level technical abilities.
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The first part will take in 20kms (thus giving people who had enough after 20k to return to Castlemaine); the rest will do another 10kms, so the total for the day will be 30kms, approximately a 3 hour ride. We shall leave the Botanic Gardens at 9am, go up Daws Road, and then head southwards to take in some of the flowing/winding Green Loop, then along the Castlemaine-Maldon Trail to do the Ladies Lounge loop, then back along the Castlemaine-Maldon Trail to Daws Road (the 20kms), Those wishing to can return to Castlemaine at this point, while others can choose to do a further 10kms, taking in some of the classic Clover Leaf circuit (total 30kms). The last 10kms will be a bit more hilly and thus a wee bit harder. Overall nothing very technical, primarily a ride to build up fitness.
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The route is not very hilly, and includes some nice down hill track, almost rock free, but probably best done on a mountain bike. The pace will be leisurely, around 10 kms an hour, but will require fitness. Suitable for those used to riding 20 to 30kms on solid surfaces.
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All riders must be self-sufficient with food, water and spares. MTBA membership is required. Day permits available for non-members $10.