Thank you...👍🏻 Mine is a Ribble Gravel Ti with 12 speed Shimano GRX 1x (40 at front with 10-46 at rear) Simon & Thomo both ride Sonder Caminos from Alpkit. Simon has modified his to have even lower gearing than mine. Martin rides a Cannondale Topstone with 50-34 at front and 11-34 at rear. All have wide tyres varying from 40 - 45 mm. Thanks again for watching and commenting...🚴🏻♂️
We stayed a week in Lochcarron last year, one of the best Scottish holidays we have had (and we have visited for over 30 years). That Spar is an absolute belter, there is very little they don't sell (upstairs is full of stock too!) and if they don't sell it they will know someone who does, or they will get it for you. I admire anyone who chooses NC500 for a cycling holiday in 'summer'. Four seasons in one day, midges, the hills! Well done getting fine weather on the Bealach, its a rare occurence.
I could stay a week there too, it was so nice. All the folk we met there were very friendly. The temptation to go to Scotland when the weather is likely to be best, i.e. in the summer, can backfire badly with the midge situation. We were very lucky with the weather throughout the whole trip, and overall the midges weren't too bad in fairness. Thanks for watching the video and commenting. All the best...🚴🏻♂️
You visited some of my most favourite places in this episode. Lochcarron is ace isn’t it? That Spar is a lifeline for anyone passing. They literally have everything! Can’t believe there was an 11am start 😮 I’d have been incredibly hangry 😅
Hi Allen, you are right about Lochcarron, a beautiful place and we were lucky to be there in great weather. It's definitely somewhere I'll be going back to at some stage. We found a lovely coffee shop called The Old Butchers, unfortunately it was closed the day we were there but the Spar fulfilled our needs nicely. Thomo got a yellow card off me for the late start...🤣 BTW, I really enjoy your videos, you make some excellent productions...👍🏻 Thanks for watching and commenting, Dave
@@davidbenson735 I keep going back there. Love the place, each time I’m there I feel like I’m home. Will be keeping an eye on your channel for more, I’ll relive my trip from 2017 vicariously through your footage. Thanks for the comment on my work - it’s very kind.
Thanks a lot Thilo. You know, it's only 3 weeks since I got back from the trip but it seems much longer...🤔 Me and Simon were saying that it was our best trip ever, we had a lot of fun, even though at times it was quite hard. It was great meeting you and thanks for the cafe recommendations along the way. All the best, and happy future cycling adventures...🚴🏻♂
A big thank you to both of you, I'm glad you enjoyed it. I'm currently working on episode 2, but there's so much footage of the stunning scenery we cycled through, that it's taking me some time to edit. Thanks again for watching and commenting...🚴🏻♂️
An early start is essential. I hate getting underway after 10am, you spend the whole of the rest of the day under pressure to get to the end of day stop.
WOW! Just wow. Exquisite views. I’m so very looking forward to episode two! And I am enamored with the little cafes and villages that you pass through.
Thanks a lot Josh. Yeah, there were stunning views around every corner. It's become a very popular tourist route now, so more cafes have opened up, and as you know, I love a good cafe...☕🍰 All the best, Dave
Hi Ali, thanks very much for watching and commenting. Ha ha, I could have used the description "Superb" around every corner, due to the magnificent scenery we were cycling through. Plus all the wonderful cafes we came across - they would have deserved the same. As for missing a meal, I too, usually get grumpy when that happens, but on this occasion I think I was too exhausted to even do that...🤣 All the best, Dave...🚴🏻♂️
I e only had a few minutes at coffee break to have a peek- but I’d expect nothing less from you than the Wee campground. Also “left turn Clyde.😅” Looking forward to watching the entirety on the television this evening.
Yeah it was hard, especially as I was running on an empty tank. Got to the campsite and quickly set up the tents in fading light. Quick simple dehydrated food pouch then off to sleep and yeah, had a solid nights kip...superb! Too tired to do any filming of the camp until the following morning, which will be in episode 2. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Thanks Deirdre, it was tough going and thankfully I didn't cramp up like the day before. I had some gels with me but forgot to take any. Thanks for watching and commenting...👍🏻
Love it! Bringing back memories of those amazing roads up there. We dived into Shieldiag for night 2 so really felt how knackered you were pushing on! Looking forward to the next installment! Great stuff. 🙂
Thanks very much for watching and commenting. I watched your NC500 video from 2021, and the weather conditions were so different when you climbed the Bealach na Ba, with all the low cloud making it so atmospheric. We had originally planned to tackle the climb at the end of the first day, but realised how tiring that would have been, plus the weather conditions then were poor. I'm glad we left it for the start of Day 2 as we were very lucky with the sunny and still conditions. I bet it can get pretty grim up there when it's blowing a hoolie. All the best and happy cycling...🚴🏻♂️
Myself and two other old bloke mates B&B'd and hostelled the route in early September this year , what a fantastic trip and the weather was so kind, also amazed how (for the most part) considerate other road users were, particularly camper vans.
@grahamricketts-bq1ft We did our trip 3rd - 11th September and had great weather for a large part of it. Sounds like you were there during the same settled spell. Also, I agree with you about the other road users being very considerate to us cyclists, a definite thumbs up there. Thanks for watching and commenting...🚲
@@davidbenson735 very nearly snap, we did 4-11 September, just had rain on the last day, but other than that was wonderful weather . Looking forward to your other videos !
Thank you Simon. Out of all the bike tours I've done, the NC500 has been the best so far. If you get the chance, go for it. Thanks for watching and commenting.
We managed to get back on track after that, and generally got going around 9am which was better. Thanks very much for watching and commenting. I'm glad you enjoyed it...🚴🏻♂️
Can I just say, I’ve just found your channel through this video and have basically binged watched your videos during the weekend. I’ve just got into cycling (injured runner, the stereotypical entry into cycling!), and I’m hoping to go on some fun adventures early next year. I’ve never been bike-packing, so it really is all new to me. Your videos are giving me serious FOMO, as well as a great idea of how to do it. I cannot wait to get started! I need to find some fun pals like yours as well. 😂 Perhaps if you get some time you could do a gear video, if you haven’t already. What you take with you on your day rides (I’m still figuring out what non-negotiable repair kit I need on every ride), and what you take on an overnight trip where you stay in the same campsite every night, and then what you take where you change locations as you go, that sort of thing. I’m notice you ride mainly on the road. I’m excited to try bike-packing in all its forms; road, gravel, and perhaps even over a mountain or two. We’ll see which I end up enjoying the most! I realise now I’ll need more bikes… I can see this hobby becoming expensive! 😂
Hi Charlotte, thanks very much for watching my videos and commenting. Firstly you'll need the right bike for the job. There are loads to choose from, I started with an aluminium framed gravel bike and have recently upgraded to titanium frame (stronger but similar weight). You'll need low gearing if you are intending to cycle in hilly regions and I chose a single chainring (one-by) setup for simplicity (less things to go wrong). Most gravel bikes offer this type of gearing. Tyres are usually wide on gravel bikes but still roll very well on smooth tarmac. I have 40mm tyres and they are great on all surfaces. The next thing to think about is how you intend to carry your gear on the bike - I prefer the traditional pannier method clipped onto a rack attached to the bike, others prefer the new seat bags, but these hold less stuff and and might be less easy to access the gear inside? I also have pannier bags attached to my forks (I chose a bike with bolts on the forks specifically for this). I use Ortlieb bags as they are totally waterproof. A lightweight good quality tent is important, to give you guaranteed shelter, with enough room to cook in and store your gear overnight. I use Wild Country Zephyros 1 but my mates use the slighter roomier Zephyros 2 Compact. In addition to the tent you will need a good quality sleeping mat. There are loads on the market, I use a self-inflating mat but lots of people go for lighter mats that you have to blow up yourself (just personal preference). And a good quality sleeping bag. I use a 3-season bag cos I like to be warm, but you could go lighter with a 2-season bag. Plus a compressible pillow which I stuff clothes into to increase the size. You'll need some form of gas stove, ideally small. I use a Jetboil cos all I need to do is boil water for dehydrated food pouches, coffee/tea and porridge pots. I keep the camp cooking as simple as possible and get food from shops and cafes during the day (less to carry). I take a powerbank with me to keep my electrical equipment topped up - phone, lights, Garmin and video camera. You'll need a small lock for the bike plus various basic tools, such as a multi-tool, tyre levers, spare innertubes, chain tool, puncture repair kit and pump. Lots of people go with tubeless tyres and rely on the sealant to fix a puncture and carry a plug tool if it doesn't. I'm still using inner tubes. Ideally the bike should be able to carry a tool bottle and 2 drink bottles, but if not, tools can be carried in one of your bags, but I would say you always need 2 drink bottles on board. I would suggest you start off with a local one-nighter first so that you can test out your equipment before you embark on more ambitious trips. This is what I did with my mates before they went on the NC500 trip. I hope some of this is helpful and you have some great bikepacking trips in the future. All the best, Dave
@@davidbenson735 Oh wow, what an amazingly detailed reply! I really appreciate you taking the time. This is such great information, and exactly what a newbie like me needs, so thank you so much! 😊 Really looking forward to your next videos, and until those are up I shall continue working my way through your older stuff. Do you post the GPX files of your actual routes anywhere? A blog, perhaps, or on Strava?
Thanks for that...👍🏻 The Bealach na Ba is a tough climb (20% in places), but due to the amount of traffic using it that day, we had the opportunity to catch our breath at the passing places, waiting for the vehicles to pass. There are lots of shorter, but just as tough, climbs further along the route. One particular one, beyond Drumbeg had us standing out of the saddle to get up it. It was 25%, which was super difficult with all the weight we were carrying. When are you planning on going? Thanks again for watching and commenting...🚴🏻♂️
@davidbenson735 that's some climb when you're out of your seat to get up it. I wanted to do it this year but the lads I bike pack with think it's a bit too much lol. As I always say "you have legs for a reason" so it maybe next year now, fingers crossed around August. Looking forward to part 2, love your channel mate.
@@kcvocalentertainer With low gearing all the hills on the NC500 are doable, I just get in my granny gear and spin my way up slowly. I hope you manage to get there next year, I'm sure you'll love it. Thanks very much for your great comments. All the best, Dave
Thank you...👍🏻 It was tough going up the Bealach na Ba, but we were so lucky with the weather conditions on the day. I bet it can get pretty rough up there and that would be a totally different proposition. Thanks for watching and commenting.
@@davidbenson735 yep, I watched another cycling UA-camr who, with a group, cycled the NC500 and experienced some very bad weather conditions and found it really hard going. Look forward the rest of the vlogs 👍
Thank you great video & I am glad I found you. As you started the climb I was thinking I know that climb and you confirmed I did when you mentioned Applecross. Yes I have ridden over there and I found it easy, well I was on my 1200cc motorbike. 😉😂 That is some climb ! I am guessing I am in your age range and just like you I make a point of saying thank you when motorists give me lee way for something. It makes me feel good and I am guessing the drivers appreciate it as well. I am pretty sure many of the motorist cyclist incidents could be avoided by everyone being courteous to each other. Looking forward to your updates. Stay safe out there.
Thanks very much for your comment. I'm 66 years of age and very much old school when it comes to being courteous. I was always taught to have good manners and treat people as you would want to be treated yourself. I did notice that there were a lot of courteous drivers along the NC500, which made a pleasant change to where I cycle in NW England. Thanks again for watching and commenting and happy (motor)cycling...👍🏻
Thanks very much, I'm glad you enjoyed the video. A few more episodes to follow, but with my level of tech skills it takes quite a while to put them together. I've had a look at your channel and subscribed, it looks like you have some great videos. Thanks for watching and commenting...🚴🏻♂️
Great video Dave but the traffic looks a wee bit busy at times. That said, I've driven it twice, long before it was called NC500 so I guess I was part of the problem. Looking forward to the following episodes of 👌
Thanks very much Pete. Yeah, there were lots of motorbikes in groups and camper vans everywhere. As for cyclists, we only met 4 others in total, as I recall. I thought there would have been a lot more...🤔 Thanks again for watching and commenting. Happy cycling
Hi Lucas, yeah a new bike earlier this year. It's a titanium frame, which is nice, but the other features why I chose it, were the lower gearing, fork bolts for front panniers and through-axles. Thanks very much for watching the video and commenting...🚴🏻♂️
Superb! Would love to do this but I don't think my 70 year old arthritic knees would cope. Although I have all the gear, I cant sleep in a tent these days.
Thank you very much. I'm sorry to hear about your arthritic knees. I have a cycling buddy who has a similar problem and bought a lightweight road e-bike which helps him massively. Maybe you could do it on an e-bike, staying B & B, with someone transporting your gear...🤔 Thanks for watching and commenting.
Cycling in Sutherland and Caithness is magical, if you avoid the NC500 and its millions of users . . . . And midgie season. Cramps. Try Magnesium tabs from a health food shop, worked wonders for me, cramp free nowadays.
Yeah, it was quite busy with campervans and motorbikes. We found that even though the campsites often said full, it seems that there is always space available for cycle tourers. One of the German lads gave me some Magnesium tabs whilst I was suffering and they did the trick. I need to get some of these to carry with me. Thanks for the reminder 👍🏻 Thanks for watching the video and commenting.
Brilliant video thanks v much, just a question about the sleeper train, looked at doing this trip myself with a couple of mates early this year, however i was told i couldn't put my bike on at Preston station as the bikes are in the last carriage and the platform is to short and doesn't reach the said carriage, so just wondered if you had issues or it was plain sailing, thanks in advance
Thanks very much for watching and commenting. We had no problem at Preston station, we were told where the bike carriage would be, so waited there until the train pulled in. There was a guard who advised us on where to put the bikes in the storage carriage. I hope you get chance to do it. All the best, Dave...🚴🏻♂️
I'd never heard of a Schlumpf Mountain Drive until I read your comment and now I can see how much of an advantage that would give on the uphills when fully loaded, like we were. Thanks for that...👍🏻 Thanks also for watching the video and commenting.
A great video, enjoyed it. And your getting great weather, so far. I solo cycled the NC500 a couple of years ago, wild camping, took me 10 days and mostly crap weather 😊. You might enjoy my UA-cam videos on Catch You Later? Well done.
Hi Mick, thanks a lot for watching and commenting, I'm glad you enjoyed the video. I watched your great series of videos about the NC500 earlier this year, in advance of our trip and made a note of your nice little camping spots along the way, should we have needed them. You had it much rougher than us on the Bealach na Ba. Fair play to you getting up there in that wind...👏🏻 BTW, I'm already a subscriber to your channel and really enjoy your videos. All the best and happy cycling, Dave...🚴🏻♂️
You're right, it was very popular with campervans when we were there and it wasn't even the main holiday season. Thanks for watching and commenting...👍🏻
I stayed in Applecross for a week about 20 years ago, way before the little store had been converted into a fancy cafe. It's a lot more touristy now, but I suppose it's necessary for the number of visitors. I remember travelling over the Bealach several times and hardly seeing a soul.
the old bloke on a bike , bike packing the NC 500 and filming it for us..........SUPERB !
It's my pleasure Matt, especially when I know people like yourself are enjoying the result.
Thanks for watching the video and commenting.
THIS WAS A VERY ENJOYABLY WATCH/ inspiring. PS I normally watch redbull rampage. 😅
@@sandstau Thanks for that, I can see the similarity lol 🤣
Thank you for watching and commenting, glad you enjoyed the video.
I like the feel of the video, casual & amusing, better subscribe and watch the upcoming videos!
Thank you very much for watching, commenting and subscribing. I'm glad you enjoyed it, more to come, eventually...🤣
Excelkent, genuine content Dave. Looking forward to watching the next one.
Thank you...👍🏻
Thanks for watching and commenting.
Would be interesting to see what makes/models your bikes are, lovely videos 👍
Thank you...👍🏻
Mine is a Ribble Gravel Ti with 12 speed Shimano GRX 1x (40 at front with 10-46 at rear)
Simon & Thomo both ride Sonder Caminos from Alpkit. Simon has modified his to have even lower gearing than mine.
Martin rides a Cannondale Topstone with 50-34 at front and 11-34 at rear.
All have wide tyres varying from 40 - 45 mm.
Thanks again for watching and commenting...🚴🏻♂️
We stayed a week in Lochcarron last year, one of the best Scottish holidays we have had (and we have visited for over 30 years). That Spar is an absolute belter, there is very little they don't sell (upstairs is full of stock too!) and if they don't sell it they will know someone who does, or they will get it for you.
I admire anyone who chooses NC500 for a cycling holiday in 'summer'. Four seasons in one day, midges, the hills! Well done getting fine weather on the Bealach, its a rare occurence.
I could stay a week there too, it was so nice. All the folk we met there were very friendly.
The temptation to go to Scotland when the weather is likely to be best, i.e. in the summer, can backfire badly with the midge situation. We were very lucky with the weather throughout the whole trip, and overall the midges weren't too bad in fairness.
Thanks for watching the video and commenting. All the best...🚴🏻♂️
Great video and up to now, you've had great weather. Now to watch the next clips.
Thanks a lot for watching and commenting...👍🏻
Yeah, the weather was amazing for most of the trip, we couldn't believe how lucky we were.
Cheers.
Hello from British Columbia 😊😊Great Vibes.
Hi there in British Colombia, thanks for watching the video and your kind comment...👍🏻
Absolutely brilliant. Thanks for the great content!
Thank you very much for watching and your kind comment. I'm glad you enjoyed it...🚴🏻♂️
Looks like you were up there the same week we were with sparkling weather.
We were so lucky with the weather, I couldn't believe how nice it was.
Thank you for watching and commenting...🚴🏻♂️
Great video .... thank you
Thanks very much, I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Thanks for watching and commenting...👍🏻
aww no, the 2nd part isnt up yet !,.......im gonna have to watch "bike packing the way of the roses" again...SUPERB!
Sorry Matt, still working on it. Hopefully it will be worth the wait...🤞🏻
You visited some of my most favourite places in this episode.
Lochcarron is ace isn’t it? That Spar is a lifeline for anyone passing. They literally have everything!
Can’t believe there was an 11am start 😮 I’d have been incredibly hangry 😅
Hi Allen, you are right about Lochcarron, a beautiful place and we were lucky to be there in great weather. It's definitely somewhere I'll be going back to at some stage. We found a lovely coffee shop called The Old Butchers, unfortunately it was closed the day we were there but the Spar fulfilled our needs nicely.
Thomo got a yellow card off me for the late start...🤣
BTW, I really enjoy your videos, you make some excellent productions...👍🏻
Thanks for watching and commenting, Dave
@@davidbenson735 I keep going back there. Love the place, each time I’m there I feel like I’m home.
Will be keeping an eye on your channel for more, I’ll relive my trip from 2017 vicariously through your footage.
Thanks for the comment on my work - it’s very kind.
Superb Content Dave!! Already forgot how beautiful the landscape is up there ! Fun times with you guys
Thanks a lot Thilo. You know, it's only 3 weeks since I got back from the trip but it seems much longer...🤔
Me and Simon were saying that it was our best trip ever, we had a lot of fun, even though at times it was quite hard.
It was great meeting you and thanks for the cafe recommendations along the way. All the best, and happy future cycling adventures...🚴🏻♂
Absolutely fantastic Dave, we loved this, can’t wait for the next one!
What a beautiful place ❤️🎉🎉🚴♀️🚴♀️
A big thank you to both of you, I'm glad you enjoyed it.
I'm currently working on episode 2, but there's so much footage of the stunning scenery we cycled through, that it's taking me some time to edit.
Thanks again for watching and commenting...🚴🏻♂️
An early start is essential. I hate getting underway after 10am, you spend the whole of the rest of the day under pressure to get to the end of day stop.
Yeah, I gave Thomo a yellow card for the late start...🤣
Thanks for watching and commenting.
Awesome filming, really enjoyed it
Thanks a lot, I'm glad you enjoyed the video. More to come, eventually...🤣
Thanks for watching and commenting.
WOW! Just wow. Exquisite views. I’m so very looking forward to episode two!
And I am enamored with the little cafes and villages that you pass through.
Thanks a lot Josh. Yeah, there were stunning views around every corner. It's become a very popular tourist route now, so more cafes have opened up, and as you know, I love a good cafe...☕🍰 All the best, Dave
I love to count how many “Superb” 😀. Amazing scenery. Sorry you missed a meal - that would make me grumpy
Hi Ali, thanks very much for watching and commenting.
Ha ha, I could have used the description "Superb" around every corner, due to the magnificent scenery we were cycling through. Plus all the wonderful cafes we came across - they would have deserved the same.
As for missing a meal, I too, usually get grumpy when that happens, but on this occasion I think I was too exhausted to even do that...🤣
All the best, Dave...🚴🏻♂️
I e only had a few minutes at coffee break to have a peek- but I’d expect nothing less from you than the Wee campground. Also “left turn Clyde.😅”
Looking forward to watching the entirety on the television this evening.
Thanks Josh, I hope you enjoy the rest of the video...👍🏻
Well done Dave that last bit of slog looked hard i bet you got a good sleep after that lol.
Yeah it was hard, especially as I was running on an empty tank. Got to the campsite and quickly set up the tents in fading light. Quick simple dehydrated food pouch then off to sleep and yeah, had a solid nights kip...superb! Too tired to do any filming of the camp until the following morning, which will be in episode 2.
Thanks for watching and commenting.
Enjoyed that! Some feat getting up the Bealach with all that kit! Maybe take some emergency gels next time. Looking forward to episode 2
Thanks Deirdre, it was tough going and thankfully I didn't cramp up like the day before.
I had some gels with me but forgot to take any.
Thanks for watching and commenting...👍🏻
Great ride out guys, a tough one but very rewarding. Thankyou for another Great video.
Thanks a lot Simon...👍🏻
Yeah, it was tough, especially with the weight we were carrying.
Thanks again for watching and commenting...🚴🏻♂️
Great video and humour 😂. Looking forward to the next video. Thanks for sharing 👍
Thank you, I'm glad you enjoyed the video.
It's good to exercise the chuckle muscles as well as the legs...🤣
Thanks for watching and commenting...👍🏻
You have my profound respect for doing that in a day. Pleasurable on a motorbike, tough going on the pedals.
Thank you very much. Was hoping for a tow up the Bealach but no offers unfortunately...🤣
Thanks for watching and commenting...👍🏻
Love it! Bringing back memories of those amazing roads up there. We dived into Shieldiag for night 2 so really felt how knackered you were pushing on! Looking forward to the next installment! Great stuff. 🙂
Thanks very much for watching and commenting. I watched your NC500 video from 2021, and the weather conditions were so different when you climbed the Bealach na Ba, with all the low cloud making it so atmospheric. We had originally planned to tackle the climb at the end of the first day, but realised how tiring that would have been, plus the weather conditions then were poor. I'm glad we left it for the start of Day 2 as we were very lucky with the sunny and still conditions. I bet it can get pretty grim up there when it's blowing a hoolie.
All the best and happy cycling...🚴🏻♂️
Fantastic trip Dave I was spent just watching looking forward to next episode cheers pal
Thanks a lot Paul, I'm glad you enjoyed it. I think Keith should do it on his Gold Wing...🤣
Myself and two other old bloke mates B&B'd and hostelled the route in early September this year , what a fantastic trip and the weather was so kind, also amazed how (for the most part) considerate other road users were, particularly camper vans.
@grahamricketts-bq1ft We did our trip 3rd - 11th September and had great weather for a large part of it. Sounds like you were there during the same settled spell. Also, I agree with you about the other road users being very considerate to us cyclists, a definite thumbs up there.
Thanks for watching and commenting...🚲
@@davidbenson735 very nearly snap, we did 4-11 September, just had rain on the last day, but other than that was wonderful weather . Looking forward to your other videos !
I keep putting off these grand adventures and know i shouldn't.. very inspiring video to get out and do it.
Thank you Simon. Out of all the bike tours I've done, the NC500 has been the best so far. If you get the chance, go for it.
Thanks for watching and commenting.
What a superb trip! Looking forward to the next episode
@2rocship Thanks Si. Best ever trip...👌
That late set off from Lochcarron would have really annoyed me. Brilliant vid covering awesome scenery which is the uk’s best.
We managed to get back on track after that, and generally got going around 9am which was better.
Thanks very much for watching and commenting. I'm glad you enjoyed it...🚴🏻♂️
Looks like a great trip, great video too.
@chrisearnshaw7865 Yeah, thank you, it was a brilliant trip. Thanks for watching and commenting 👍
Are you on strava or Komoot?
@@chrisearnshaw7865 I'm on Strava under David Benson 🚲
Looks like bags of fun the NC500 =) Someday I'll venture up to Scotland again. Looking forward to the next adventure.
Thanks Richard. Yeah, loads of fun doing this one. Hard but totally satisfying. Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy cycling...🚲
Can I just say, I’ve just found your channel through this video and have basically binged watched your videos during the weekend. I’ve just got into cycling (injured runner, the stereotypical entry into cycling!), and I’m hoping to go on some fun adventures early next year. I’ve never been bike-packing, so it really is all new to me. Your videos are giving me serious FOMO, as well as a great idea of how to do it. I cannot wait to get started! I need to find some fun pals like yours as well. 😂
Perhaps if you get some time you could do a gear video, if you haven’t already. What you take with you on your day rides (I’m still figuring out what non-negotiable repair kit I need on every ride), and what you take on an overnight trip where you stay in the same campsite every night, and then what you take where you change locations as you go, that sort of thing.
I’m notice you ride mainly on the road. I’m excited to try bike-packing in all its forms; road, gravel, and perhaps even over a mountain or two. We’ll see which I end up enjoying the most! I realise now I’ll need more bikes… I can see this hobby becoming expensive! 😂
Hi Charlotte, thanks very much for watching my videos and commenting.
Firstly you'll need the right bike for the job. There are loads to choose from, I started with an aluminium framed gravel bike and have recently upgraded to titanium frame (stronger but similar weight). You'll need low gearing if you are intending to cycle in hilly regions and I chose a single chainring (one-by) setup for simplicity (less things to go wrong). Most gravel bikes offer this type of gearing. Tyres are usually wide on gravel bikes but still roll very well on smooth tarmac. I have 40mm tyres and they are great on all surfaces.
The next thing to think about is how you intend to carry your gear on the bike - I prefer the traditional pannier method clipped onto a rack attached to the bike, others prefer the new seat bags, but these hold less stuff and and might be less easy to access the gear inside? I also have pannier bags attached to my forks (I chose a bike with bolts on the forks specifically for this). I use Ortlieb bags as they are totally waterproof.
A lightweight good quality tent is important, to give you guaranteed shelter, with enough room to cook in and store your gear overnight. I use Wild Country Zephyros 1 but my mates use the slighter roomier Zephyros 2 Compact. In addition to the tent you will need a good quality sleeping mat. There are loads on the market, I use a self-inflating mat but lots of people go for lighter mats that you have to blow up yourself (just personal preference). And a good quality sleeping bag. I use a 3-season bag cos I like to be warm, but you could go lighter with a 2-season bag. Plus a compressible pillow which I stuff clothes into to increase the size.
You'll need some form of gas stove, ideally small. I use a Jetboil cos all I need to do is boil water for dehydrated food pouches, coffee/tea and porridge pots. I keep the camp cooking as simple as possible and get food from shops and cafes during the day (less to carry).
I take a powerbank with me to keep my electrical equipment topped up - phone, lights, Garmin and video camera. You'll need a small lock for the bike plus various basic tools, such as a multi-tool, tyre levers, spare innertubes, chain tool, puncture repair kit and pump. Lots of people go with tubeless tyres and rely on the sealant to fix a puncture and carry a plug tool if it doesn't. I'm still using inner tubes.
Ideally the bike should be able to carry a tool bottle and 2 drink bottles, but if not, tools can be carried in one of your bags, but I would say you always need 2 drink bottles on board.
I would suggest you start off with a local one-nighter first so that you can test out your equipment before you embark on more ambitious trips. This is what I did with my mates before they went on the NC500 trip.
I hope some of this is helpful and you have some great bikepacking trips in the future.
All the best, Dave
@@davidbenson735 Oh wow, what an amazingly detailed reply! I really appreciate you taking the time. This is such great information, and exactly what a newbie like me needs, so thank you so much! 😊
Really looking forward to your next videos, and until those are up I shall continue working my way through your older stuff.
Do you post the GPX files of your actual routes anywhere? A blog, perhaps, or on Strava?
@@Charlotte-ti2yk I'm on Strava under David Benson. Cheers...👍🏻
Excellent mate, I’m looking forward to the NC500. Some serious climbs on the route.
Thanks for that...👍🏻
The Bealach na Ba is a tough climb (20% in places), but due to the amount of traffic using it that day, we had the opportunity to catch our breath at the passing places, waiting for the vehicles to pass.
There are lots of shorter, but just as tough, climbs further along the route. One particular one, beyond Drumbeg had us standing out of the saddle to get up it. It was 25%, which was super difficult with all the weight we were carrying.
When are you planning on going?
Thanks again for watching and commenting...🚴🏻♂️
@davidbenson735 that's some climb when you're out of your seat to get up it. I wanted to do it this year but the lads I bike pack with think it's a bit too much lol. As I always say "you have legs for a reason" so it maybe next year now, fingers crossed around August. Looking forward to part 2, love your channel mate.
@@kcvocalentertainer With low gearing all the hills on the NC500 are doable, I just get in my granny gear and spin my way up slowly.
I hope you manage to get there next year, I'm sure you'll love it.
Thanks very much for your great comments. All the best, Dave
Great effort, guys. Well done 👍
Thank you...👍🏻
It was tough going up the Bealach na Ba, but we were so lucky with the weather conditions on the day.
I bet it can get pretty rough up there and that would be a totally different proposition.
Thanks for watching and commenting.
@@davidbenson735 yep, I watched another cycling UA-camr who, with a group, cycled the NC500 and experienced some very bad weather conditions and found it really hard going. Look forward the rest of the vlogs 👍
Thank you great video & I am glad I found you. As you started the climb I was thinking I know that climb and you confirmed I did when you mentioned Applecross. Yes I have ridden over there and I found it easy, well I was on my 1200cc motorbike. 😉😂 That is some climb ! I am guessing I am in your age range and just like you I make a point of saying thank you when motorists give me lee way for something. It makes me feel good and I am guessing the drivers appreciate it as well. I am pretty sure many of the motorist cyclist incidents could be avoided by everyone being courteous to each other. Looking forward to your updates. Stay safe out there.
Thanks very much for your comment. I'm 66 years of age and very much old school when it comes to being courteous. I was always taught to have good manners and treat people as you would want to be treated yourself. I did notice that there were a lot of courteous drivers along the NC500, which made a pleasant change to where I cycle in NW England.
Thanks again for watching and commenting and happy (motor)cycling...👍🏻
Enjoyed watching this. I've wanted to do the 500 myself for a while but can't find any mates who'll make the effort. Well done 🚴👍
Thanks very much, I'm glad you enjoyed the video. A few more episodes to follow, but with my level of tech skills it takes quite a while to put them together. I've had a look at your channel and subscribed, it looks like you have some great videos. Thanks for watching and commenting...🚴🏻♂️
Great video
Thanks a lot, I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Thank you for watching the video and commenting...👍🏻🚴🏻♂️
Well done guys enjoy yourself 🚴🍺🍺🍺🍺🍰🍰🍰🍰👍
Thanks Stuart, we made sure we kept well fuelled on the trip...🤣
Thank you for watching and commenting, cheers...🚴🏻♂️
Great video Dave but the traffic looks a wee bit busy at times. That said, I've driven it twice, long before it was called NC500 so I guess I was part of the problem.
Looking forward to the following episodes of 👌
Thanks very much Pete. Yeah, there were lots of motorbikes in groups and camper vans everywhere. As for cyclists, we only met 4 others in total, as I recall. I thought there would have been a lot more...🤔 Thanks again for watching and commenting. Happy cycling
Hi Dave, great video really enjoyed it, i noticed you have bought a new bike ?
Hi Lucas, yeah a new bike earlier this year. It's a titanium frame, which is nice, but the other features why I chose it, were the lower gearing, fork bolts for front panniers and through-axles.
Thanks very much for watching the video and commenting...🚴🏻♂️
Superb! Would love to do this but I don't think my 70 year old arthritic knees would cope. Although I have all the gear, I cant sleep in a tent these days.
Thank you very much. I'm sorry to hear about your arthritic knees. I have a cycling buddy who has a similar problem and bought a lightweight road e-bike which helps him massively. Maybe you could do it on an e-bike, staying B & B, with someone transporting your gear...🤔
Thanks for watching and commenting.
Cycling in Sutherland and Caithness is magical, if you avoid the NC500 and its millions of users . . . . And midgie season.
Cramps. Try Magnesium tabs from a health food shop, worked wonders for me, cramp free nowadays.
Yeah, it was quite busy with campervans and motorbikes. We found that even though the campsites often said full, it seems that there is always space available for cycle tourers.
One of the German lads gave me some Magnesium tabs whilst I was suffering and they did the trick. I need to get some of these to carry with me. Thanks for the reminder 👍🏻
Thanks for watching the video and commenting.
I'm inspired. What's Bicycle did you use and what cassette did it have.
Ta
Ghafar
Thanks for watching and commenting...👍🏻
My bike is a Ribble Titanium gravel bike with 40t chainring and 12-speed cassette 10t-45t.
Cheers
Brilliant video and trip, looks awesome, are you on Strava as would love to follow this route and do it
@paulbalfe5852 Hi Paul, thanks for watching and commenting, much appreciated.
Yes I'm on Strava under David Benson.
Happy cycling...🚲
Brilliant video thanks v much, just a question about the sleeper train, looked at doing this trip myself with a couple of mates early this year, however i was told i couldn't put my bike on at Preston station as the bikes are in the last carriage and the platform is to short and doesn't reach the said carriage, so just wondered if you had issues or it was plain sailing, thanks in advance
Thanks very much for watching and commenting.
We had no problem at Preston station, we were told where the bike carriage would be, so waited there until the train pulled in. There was a guard who advised us on where to put the bikes in the storage carriage.
I hope you get chance to do it. All the best, Dave...🚴🏻♂️
Castle is being converted from the court to a tourist attraction
Thanks, I didn't know that. And thanks for watching the video...👍🏻
That's when you consider a Schlumpf mtn drive. ..lol
I'd never heard of a Schlumpf Mountain Drive until I read your comment and now I can see how much of an advantage that would give on the uphills when fully loaded, like we were. Thanks for that...👍🏻
Thanks also for watching the video and commenting.
you guys are tougher than me, OR just mad 😂😂😂
We are mad, but love it that way. Doing what we do keeps us from getting bored...🤣
Thanks for watching and commenting.
I did this solo last year. Where’s the rest of the trip?
Well done on doing it solo...👏🏻
More episodes to follow eventually, but there's a lot of footage and I'm slow at editing...🤣
Thanks for watching.
Good work David. Look forward to the rest. I just captured my ramblings on an iPhone. The midge wristband is hilarious 😂
@1:29.... Day of the Triffiids....gone wrong lolol
Lol 🤣
Mainline train storage is a nightmare.
Yeah, I've never enjoyed that part of any bikepacking trip.
Thanks for watching the video...👍🏻
⚔️💪🏴🇬🇧👌👍(stroke)
Thank you very much for watching and commenting Tom...👍🏻
@@davidbenson735 👍🏴🇬🇧
A great video, enjoyed it. And your getting great weather, so far. I solo cycled the NC500 a couple of years ago, wild camping, took me 10 days and mostly crap weather 😊. You might enjoy my UA-cam videos on Catch You Later? Well done.
Hi Mick, thanks a lot for watching and commenting, I'm glad you enjoyed the video.
I watched your great series of videos about the NC500 earlier this year, in advance of our trip and made a note of your nice little camping spots along the way, should we have needed them. You had it much rougher than us on the Bealach na Ba. Fair play to you getting up there in that wind...👏🏻
BTW, I'm already a subscriber to your channel and really enjoy your videos.
All the best and happy cycling, Dave...🚴🏻♂️
Thanks Dave, I'm looking forward to your next video. I could say, it's bringing back good memories? Ha Ha 😁 It is really 🤣
Ha ha.
The video editing almost takes as long as the rides, but I'm working on it...👍🏻
Stick on puncture patches are the devil's work, 99% useless for all the ones I have used! Hope they hold out for Martin
You are right there, they didn't last long. Best bet is to change the inner tube.
Thanks for watching and commenting...👍🏻
WTF @ 6:02 !!! lololololol
WTF indeed 🤣
Scottish Highlands bikepacking apparel?
@@davidbenson735 well, considering how many 'drugs' he had in his panniers....it could well be a "Covert drug taking outfit"
@@mattlast4093 Ha ha, brilliant 🤣
The far north, rebrand it and they will come.
You're right, it was very popular with campervans when we were there and it wasn't even the main holiday season.
Thanks for watching and commenting...👍🏻
If you think the NC500 is good, you should have seen it before.
I stayed in Applecross for a week about 20 years ago, way before the little store had been converted into a fancy cafe. It's a lot more touristy now, but I suppose it's necessary for the number of visitors.
I remember travelling over the Bealach several times and hardly seeing a soul.