BSumC2018: Coast, Rivers, Downs of Sussex MEET 09:00 (C)

This event will open for bookings at 10am on Saturday, 28th July 2018. 

This is one of the many events organised as part of the Big Summer Camp 2018 weekend.

Join us for this 50mile/80km off-road ride taking in the South Coast Cycle Route, the Downslink Way and the South Downs Way to give spectacular views across across the national park. 

Although this is a long and reasonably challenging route, it is aimed at all abilities by being split into multiple sections at which you can choose to leave the ride early if you're finding the going too difficult..

Bikes

This ride will have both on and off-road sections but due to the surface on the South Downs Way you must have either a hybrid or mountain bike. If very dry then a cyclocross bike can be used if you're an experienced rider. 

Cycle hire will be available via Outdoor Lads for this event delivered to the campsite so people don't need to bring their own bikes with all their camping gear. You can book this here: Cycle Hire Saturday. 

Secure storage is available in the clubhouse for your own bikes but anything stored there is at the cyclists' risk.

Ride Outline (80km Total)

South Coast Cycle Route & Downslink Way (25km)

This section is completely flat.

We'll initially cycle along the paved South Coast Cycle Route heading east for 18km taking in the sea air, then head north up the Downslink Way trail for 7 km to reach the South Downs Way.

South Downs Way - Chanctonbury Ring & Barnsfarm Hills (20km)

This section climbs 409m over 2 hills on chalk and flint trails to give panoramic views across the South Downs.

Anyone struggling with the climb at the start of this section will have the option to return back downhill to the Downslink Way and return along the flat route to the camp site or explore the flat coastal route into Brighton at their leisure. I will provide maps for people wishing to do this.

44km point (just over half way) - Amberly

This is home to the Amberly Museum & Heritage Centre, local cafes and a railway station and so can make an alternative ending spot for those who have enjoyed the hills so far but don't fancy tackling the next one :)

All riders will stop here for a break and social, but those continuing the ride will only stop for max 1 hour.

South Downs Way - Bignor Hill (17km)

This section climbs 238m over 1 hill on chalk and flint trails for more panoramic views before descending along bridleways and quiet roads back towards the coast.

At the 63km point there is the option to return by train to the campsite from Barnham station if required.

South Coast Cycle Route - Back to campsite (18km)

This section is either flat or downhill and is on quiet roads via Littlehampton harbour and is a nice wind down after the earlier climbing.