Visitor Tips
Below you will find a range of useful information when planning a day out cycling in the forest.
The Cycling Code of Practice
- Adhere to the country code.
- Only ride where you know you have a legal right.
- Avoid nature reserves, way marked footpaths and other footpaths.
- Always yield to pedestrians and horses, travel past in single file.
- Always try to be self sufficient, for you and your bike.
- Obtain consent for training or commercial ventures.
- Wear a cycling helmet that fits at all times.
- Keep group sizes to 10, for your enjoyment and safety.
- Use alternative routes for different groups or leave at 10 minute intervals.
- Travel at moderate speeds and avoid bunching.
- Be aware of the sensitive environment and ride to minimise the impact of your presence.
- Do not frighten wildlife e.g. deer, badgers, birds.
Safe and Sensible Clothes
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Bring helmets that fit properly or use ours that will be well fitted by experienced staff.
- A wind proof and waterproof top.
- Avoid baggy or loose clothing, particularly trousers.
- Firm soled shoes (especially for MTB day rides).
- Avoid cotton (jeans) and wool as they do not dry out quickly.
- Acrylic materials are preferred as they absorb less moisture and dry quickly.
- October - March gloves advised - cycling mits at all time if available.
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Insist that the body be covered at all times (in case of a tumble).
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Cycling shorts (with padded seat insert) can be very helpful on day rides.
Group Organisation and Management
Carry with you the Cyclist Survival Kit
We provide: a basic bicycle repair kit for all hirers–
Puncture repair kit / tyre levers . Spare tube. Basic Spanners. Pump. A more comprehensive repair kit is provided for groups and guided rides.
We suggest that you provide a basic First Aid kit – with a minimum of
2 triangular bandages. 2 crepe bandages – 2 inch. 2 medium sized wound dressings. Antiseptic wipes. Assorted plasters (non allergic). Survival bag. Spare lightweight waterproof/windproof top and trousers. Energy bars or energy snacks.
Maps of the area
Ordinance Survey Outdoor Leisure 1:25000 No.14 Wye Valley & Forest of Dean – has the way marked Cycle Trail shown. Forest of Dean Recreation Map – This includes the way marked Cycle Trail, and a few alternative routes which are not way marked and cover relatively easy terrain.
Serious off road cycling needs planning.
Advice and suggested routes are available on request. In the Forest of Dean ride stoned tracks only, except in Sallow Vallets where any tracks can be used. Always follow the Cycling Code of Practice.
Make sure you know where you are at all times!
Mobile telephones are unreliable in the forest and should not be used as your only method of communication, identify the location of Public telephones on your chosen route. For groups of young people carry out a pre-visit reconnaissance if at all possible.
Disclaimer Mountain biking is a physical and demanding sport which obviously has inherent hazards associated with it. Whilst Pedalabikeaway staff takes all necessary precautions to try and ensure the safety of all participants, unfortunately accidents will occur in consequence. Each participant should familiarise themselves with the hazards and try and minimise the risks as much as possible.The Management accepts no responsibility whatsoever for any loss or injury from any persons involvement in Mountain Biking, furthermore, it is understood and agreed that individuals participate at their own risk.
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