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Hi all,

(semi) newbie here, I joined last year then bike went into winter hibernation

I live in Brentwood and looking to do some XC rides evenings/weekends?

Had my first proper stack this weekend and feeling the after effects discovered I don't bounce as well as I used to!

Hi Kier and welcome,

at the moment there is mostly just a few evening rides over Thorndon as the regulars are doing day trips at the weekend. Thorndon has been drying up nicely after the stormy winter months. Would not say we ride xc when we are over there but more trail riding. What do you ride? Do you know thorndon at all?

Hi Matt,

Thanks and yes I know Thorndon well, the main paths only!

Sorry for stupid question but whats the difference between XC/Trail riding to you guys?

I count xc as just riding off road and counting up the millage , trail riding is less to do with millage and more to do with fun and technical ridding (I always try to throw in pumps, drops, logs and anything remotely interesting but no ware near as difficult as DH) if that makes sense. Think riding a Welsh trail center.



My idea of a perfect ride

Also ride Thorndon & Weald most weekdays mid morning as work nights!, As matt says trail much more enjoyable!, Always on the look out for trails of the beaten track (Weald good for that)

That place looks awesome and good soundtrack too

Thats my idea of a good ride so yeah I guess I like trail riding too (title changed!)

Still building confidence with jumps/drops and regretting the 29er a bit as it feels harder to throw around.

I have ridden the trail runs at Danbury and my usual spot to go is the downhill/freeride area behind Ford at warley (usually combined with a loop of thorndon). Would like to discover the hidden parts of Thorndon.

Please let me know when you plan to go next if you dont mind me tagging along?
Not sure i'm ready for 6ft rock drops and dirt jumps just yet but this is Essex and not Wales!?

I've ridden Weald a few times Simon and found a few trails off the beaten track, i'm sure there are plenty more though! I work weekdays so mostly evenings/weekends for me unfortunately

Had a ride around Weald yesterday and has changed a bit since I went last year. Seemed to be more restricted bike areas and gates on the main downhill track - very bike unfriendly!

Ground was sloppy and cycle paths were horse trodden badly = numb cheeks