I would never judge anyone for their choice to take a bike as a replacement for the long walk in/outs on the hill but having completed my round (often in jealousy of those with a bike on the out) I take a warm and comforting feeling in hindsight knowing my 282 were done in my boots. Just feels more authentic.... Keep up the good work Murray 👍
Haha - good point and you can certainly feel smug when discussing in the pub for sure - a good point though for the purists out there - certain,y harder without the wheels for some of those hard to reach Munro’s 😊👍
Love the banter Murray. Have used the bike a few times as a means to an end, but only on the graded tracks. Ben Alder is a great example having walked and cycled to its, bike is a huge time saver. Great video.
I haven’t used my bike for walk-ins so far but I know that when I’m planning hill days with big walk-ins that I’m saving them for my bike, so I’m all for them! Great video as always Murray, love the ever optimistic view that we, Scottish hikers, have to have, “is it clearing, I think it’s clearing”! Ha ha! 🤣
Carefully applied, the bike in to the walk method can save a bit on parking fees. Rather than the busy and expensive parking at the trailhead, park a little way out and cycle in. This also saves me bringing a large van down narrow lines, so I am being considerate as well as saving money. The same works for city visits as well as the mountains.
Was a mountain biker before i was a hiker, love them both, and when combined, can save a lot of time, not to mention be great fun👍. Shame about missing out on the views for this adventure, but a pleasure to watch as always, apart from the midge attack, that made me feel itchy 😂😲. Thanks for taking us along, biking or hiking, we are here for it 👊 Cheers Pete and Shell
Good one Murray. Just been talking to my granddaughters fiancée as we was going into climb beinn Breac without a bike and was giving him advice about getting a bike for these long trips. I did this hill along with Macdui and Derry Cairngorms on a hot day and my mates chain broke on the way in so had to tow him on the way back. Strangely another trip my chain broke but had the tool to fix it. Another good video worth the wait to watch it.
Ah no - had a chain break on me once and Halfords had serviced it the week before - when I took it too a different bike shop for repair they asked why a child chain had been put onto the adult bike 😖😣 never went back to first place for a service after that !! Lol
A bike on that track seems like joy. But taking a bike up a track to the Mamores like you did with Gerry was no mean task 😅 The heather was amazing and the gorgeous Scots pines. Thanks for taking us along....Alioban ❤🐕🐕
Can't beat a good freewheel back off the hill. Got a Hornet sting once and was glad of the bike to get back quick. The ultimate winged pest. Great outing Murray.
What a great video. I like that you rode the bike on that beautiful trail with all that heather in bloom. It certainly shortened the length of time to get you closer for the hike up the Monroe. The swim in the river was the perfect ending to a successful day. Cheers, safe travels.
Loved this one even though I was scratching the whole time those midges are persistent little you know what's. Love watching wether you are on your bike although sometimes it looks like very hard work or walking
Gosh, those midges are persistent little critters. You certainly need a bike to outrun them. Another enjoyable video thanks Murray. The drone footage was amazing. You certainly chose a beautiful location. Thanks for sharing.
Murry, Interesting video. Personally I think there is a place for a bike. I have used a tourer to get to destinations and wild camp in the UK. Also have done touring cycle/camping in the Netherlands, along the Rhine and to get me up mount Ventoux from a campsite in France. Cycling doesn't necessarily detract from the overall hiking, camping experience but it depends on what you are doing....for instance I wouldn't use a bike on a long distance hike such as WHW...but on a day hike it can reduce the time it takes.....each to their own. Once the blue sky broke through it looked wonderful scenery. Not sure when you made this video but thought the midge season would have been past its worst at the back end of October.....or are those ones the last stand....😅 Thanks for sharing
Those midge are horrible, worst than our flies it looks like. Agree on the bike and yes living in Australia my perception of remote is a lot different. Another entertaining video Murray, you can stick your cold water dip though lol, I don't get in the water until its at least 35 here.😄
Not far into my munro journey, thinking of getting an E-bike. Mainly to allow me to carry in more gear for overnights and save the legs after big days. Well done on keeping the videos coming must be tough but every week. I look forward to seeing it. Thanks from another wilkie
🙏👍 thank you - very much appreciated- it can be a little tricky getting one every week (especially at the moment :( ) got a few more in the bag (not actually been out for weeks and relying on some previously filmed vlogs ! Really appreciate you watching and commenting 👍 ATB Murray
We had second-hand bikes for our munros. Climbing Lurg Mhor etc, we used the bikes, cursing as we lifted the bikes over all the deer fences, but glad on the way down. On our last one in the area, we realised the gate lifted off the hinges 😅
Used my trusty old bike along that same track in early june (midge free!) to do Carn A Mhairm , lochan Uaine and Cairn Toul. No way I would walk it, that track went on for miles! I got back to it quite late, hid it in the grass like you did. Was so glad to have it for the relatively quick ride back to Linn of Dee in the dark. Will likely do it again for Ben Avon.
Yes yes yes ! Bikes all the way. As someone who's been hampered by a bad knee for years the e-bike is the best thing since someone learned to slice a load of bread. The Cairngorms are great for the bikes.
They're essential 😁 I used a Trek full suspension when hiking in Scotland. I cycled to Alder 🤣 and up Glen Ey and others, fabulous fun. The cycle into Glen Tilt and up into the back of Carn an Righ were very enjoyable. Currently use an eMTB, its amazing 😮 cycle to the nearest towns, 70km round trip and its effortless 🤣 Apologies for the long reply 😔 🍀
Great video. Had a few chuckles......especially when you realised you'd started hiking with your bike helmet still on 😂 imagine if you hadn't realised until you were at the summit 😂 the midges looked horrendous 😬
Definitely pro bikes. Some of the more remote Munros (Cairn Gorms & surrounding hills) would not be accessible without a bike - at least not for us. Thanks for uploading, Murray. 🏴🏔👍
You need to trademark Midgageddon! Boy, the views of the Cairngorms were wonderful! I do think you’re nuts, however, dunking yourself in the River Dee. 🥶 Cheers, and ATB!
it was a cold dook Erin - but at least the beasties couldn't submerge them selves!!lol - it was just the parts of the body left out above the water that were attacked!!lol Thanks for watching ATB Murray
I got an e bike after a big operation back in 2017 it turned out to be absolutely life changing for me. People sometimes think it’s cheating but it’s not. As I got fitter I stopped using the power completely. The bike is 25 kilo so it takes more energy to ride, I only use the power going up hills. now.As you get older you forget how much fun it is to ride a bike. Cheers James
Deffo pro bike. Have been a cyclist before I got into hiking. Love to head out into the hills just on the bike gets me away from people alot quicker when I need it 😂 and yes the pros go straight into an ice bath after races. Stops the aching on stage races. I'm cold adverse especially in the rivers up here. 🥶
Im with you on this one Murray. I have always used a bike as im not a fan of the long walk -ins. I like to start as early as possible and get ahead of the crowds so to speak as I prefer solitude in the hills. As you say it can be a bit of a faff taking the bike at times but it's definitely worth it in the end. I have noticed more e-bikes being used now in the hills even met a guy on his way up Carn an Righ from Dalmunzie hotel with his bike. I have one and they are a game changer but haven't used it in the hills because its so heavy to get in the car so use an analogue bike..
I did some bikepacking and hillwalking from Corrour last week. The problem was, some of the tracks that looked good on the aerial OS map were actually nightmarish bog - completely energy-sapping and definitely not suitable for my basic mountain biking skills! Ended up doing one less hill than planned, but still enjoyed it. At least there were no midges.
I was in Halfords the other day pricing up their bikes and generally getting some advice on what bike will be suitable. Now that I have done most within a fairly reasonable drive from home I will definitely need to invest in one especially for the Cairngorms. Thanks again for the worthwhile advice on this week's video it has helped massively Murray.
Cheers Murray. Another user friendly vlog 👌 On my first visit to the Cairngorms via Glen Lui I walked in and out. Man, that was painful. Biked into Derry Lodge the next time - I was sooo glad of the (mostly) downhill exit.👍I'm for anything human powered 😁
I’m defo a pro biker Murray, just wish I’d got my e-bike a lot earlier. Fantastic for getting into the more out the way munros or hills, got a bike rack fitted to car which makes a big diff, only downside is, I seem to crash a lot 😂😂
Just watching you getting attacked during Midgageddon (how would you even spell that 😂) was horrifying, made me uncomfortable even from here! Def pro bike, I think if it helps or assists people in doing something they love, why not? Yes there's pros and cons, just have to weigh them. Beautiful views, 1:17, 10:21, 13:23. Ahhh, you have no idea how refreshing that dunk looked, and if it helped you and your wife escape the wee demons, all the better. Thanks once again Murray! 👋
I am coming up to the cairngorms in a few weeks. We are going to hire bikes this time. Im not much of a walker, so i cant wait to get on the bike! Also heading from linn of dee as we stay there in a rented cottage ❤️
I have a 29incher for the longer hill walks and it makes those long walks accessible throughout winter especially in the Cairngorms And gives you so many more options during the limited daylight hours.
I think it’s worth investing in a bike. And that means you have options so to speak. I’ve experienced the midge and my goodness it’s blooming awful. One time it was so bad that my friends and myself had to abandon a wild camping spot up in Torridon. We ended up driving out to the coast where the sea breeze kept them at bay.
They can be awful . I remember years ago turning up at the torrid on campsite about 11 pm and we didn’t even get the tent set up because of the swarms of midge ! We did the same as you and headed for the coast ! Lol 😂
Hi Murray. I think if I lived in Scotland I’d definitely get a bike. Down here in the lakes it’s not really needed, beside which it’s just someone else for me to fall off. I can be bad enough on my feet. 🤣🤣
Haha - I know the feeling - have broken my arm ( and seperately - a few broken ribs too) on bike falls over the years !! Thanks for watching as always Dave 🙏 Thanks Murray
got a wee tip for you for the midgies !! Avon "skin so soft" really works better than anything else. you can walk through them and watch them all fly away
Bikes are awesome. There is so much of Scotland you can access by taking a bike on the train which is what I did for a decade when I didn't have a car. A surprising amount of munros are accessible by such means. You can bike pack into an area to camp and then be free to bike/hike over a week. Torridon and Glen Affric are great for this. But the biggest thing is that the descending of a mountain on a bike is such a buzz. I've never regretted taking a bike anywhere (some companions might not have enjoyed 'challenging' adventures so much) but many times I have regretted not taking the bike.
Can definitely be a big advantage Murray especially if its an Ebike 🚴 but it can also be a hindrance ie: dealing with punctures, overloaded panniers snapping off, and even the rear bike rack somehow managing to twist and snap off 😞 and yes they all happened to me 😂 I have made a few modifications since those unfortunate incidents, and so far so good , fingers crossed 🤞 Mon the bike's 🚴 😂 atb Brian 👍
The bike is certainly useful in the hills for the reasons you have set out, opens up lots of different routes that can be done in a day rather than needing multi-day trips. Of course some enjoy the backpacking experience so each to their own. I did have one unfortunate incident when going up Gulvain from Kinlocheil, had bike in car but forgot to put in front wheel. Oops. Extra 7km walk each way on track with winter boots was annoying! Also best to be equipped with spare inner tube and some essential tools, just in case. Would be painful to have a breakdown a long way from carpark.
Many years ago I spent hundreds of pounds on a good mountain bike for specifically the reasons you mention, especially after many long walk ins to Cairngorm peaks, and wanting a better approach to remote mountains like Ben Alder etc. But it never got used for that because I never got round to fixing a bike rack to my car for the long journey up from Lincolnshire. I certainly wish that I had now though :)
Dare I say it. It’s not just a means to an end and does not need justification. Mountain biking taken as half seriously as hill walking is just as much fun.
Buying a second hand bike and maintaining it yourself needn't be expensive and if you take out some tools and parts, you can fix almost anything that can go wrong. Ferrying the bike to and from the hike is a pain, especially a muddy bike if you don't have a carrier rack. Combination locks are very easy to crack so if you feel a need to lock up, suggest you get a cable with a key lock -alternatively, you could take away a small essential part such as the front axle.
Forget the bike - it's The Midge that has the biggest impact on people walking the Highlands. Scotland's tourism would be massively higher if something could be done about The Midge (aka the biting blighters).
A bike is well worth it.....I've not walked a lot of mountains with big walk ins, but I would have killed for a bike to save me a few KMs of walking after descending from a day in the hills. Plus, a bike is fun! (Unlike taking a dip in freezing water! lol)
100% bike n hike when you can, especially the area you were in with long riverside tracks. Doesn’t detract from taking in the views, only an opportunist thief may steal the bike as unlikely a tea leaf would hike all the way to remote area on the off chance that there’s a bike to steal and the owner is not about.
I don’t use a car/van so train + bike + hike in combination a big plus! I’m therefore always keen to find a mountain that is accessible by public transport with or without a bike. This Munro looked very bouldery at the top. Is it as inhospitable to camping as it looked in the (misty) pictures?
I once had someone dressed head to toe in Goretex waterproofs look down their nose at me for biking into the hills because “that wasn’t how the originals did it back in the day”. Annoyingly I didn’t have the energy to point out the irony 😂
Whilst i do a lot of cycling, mostly road round the countryside, probably avoid taking bike while hiking and climbing because the longer and slower it is outdoors the more i enjoy emmersing myself in the outdoors. Obviously having limited time the bike is important i guess.
I can understand that too - although you can cover more distance you maybe do t take the surroundings in as much on the bike as always concentrating on no falling off :) lol
@@ScotlandsMountains quite normal for me to stay in the same place or area more than a day especially if it's beautiful and views etc, wildlife, plants, flowers, birds, insects and everything else lol, love taking in all of those things. Guess when time is limited the bike is a good thing.
Of course you should get a bike... but would you leave your nearest and dearest padlocked to a tree for a few hours whilst you went galivanting across the hills? of course not and you shouldnt do the same with your beloved bike.. take it with you and remember a bike isn't just for Christmas (or the first few miles of a trip out) but is your faithful steed and companion and should accompany you far into the wilds, additionally you can talk to it when you're in your tent, opps I've just dropped some marbles and they've rolled under the couch... brb...
I'm avoiding two wheels😅. A fall could be a bit risky these days. I rented an mtb in the 80s to cycle in to the Lairig ghru from Braemar. That was the last time I attempted taking a bike offroad. I basically had it over my shoulder😅 Yeah, on some of the long walk ins it could be useful but I could just walk in and make it an overnighter. Maybe an electric trike😅😅😅
I remember the last time I was in the Lairig Ghru and noted how rocky the path was - not the best one for a bike !! I feel your pain!!lol Electric bike do have an appeal I must admit - just a little pricey for my liking! Thanks for watching ATB Murray
The Lairig grhu is a hard trail to bike and a full suspension is needed but there are trails like to Ben Alder, Lurg Mhor that have land rover tracks that can be cycled into without much effort.
Why does only Svotland have these crazy midges? Is there a scientific reason it's so bad? And can anything be done about this ? I'm sure it ruins Scotlands tourist economy !
You really should bungee your pack to that pannier rack Murray - the feeling of riding with nothing on your back is a game changer and you just don’t notice the weight when the bike’s carrying it
I actually do have some pannier racks - however they were pretty cheap ones , thinking of investing in some more robust ones soon me things - totally agree with you on that point though :) Thanks for watching ATB Murray
I would never judge anyone for their choice to take a bike as a replacement for the long walk in/outs on the hill but having completed my round (often in jealousy of those with a bike on the out) I take a warm and comforting feeling in hindsight knowing my 282 were done in my boots. Just feels more authentic.... Keep up the good work Murray 👍
Haha - good point and you can certainly feel smug when discussing in the pub for sure - a good point though for the purists out there - certain,y harder without the wheels for some of those hard to reach Munro’s 😊👍
Biking, hiking, climbing or swimming, your filming is beautiful and I love it all. Thank you, Murray.
Love the banter Murray. Have used the bike a few times as a means to an end, but only on the graded tracks. Ben Alder is a great example having walked and cycled to its, bike is a huge time saver. Great video.
I haven’t used my bike for walk-ins so far but I know that when I’m planning hill days with big walk-ins that I’m saving them for my bike, so I’m all for them!
Great video as always Murray, love the ever optimistic view that we, Scottish hikers, have to have, “is it clearing, I think it’s clearing”! Ha ha! 🤣
Bikes are well good.. You can always nip down other wee tracks and find new spots for wild camping if your stuck... Enjoy your videos.. Cheers.. 💯👍
Carefully applied, the bike in to the walk method can save a bit on parking fees. Rather than the busy and expensive parking at the trailhead, park a little way out and cycle in. This also saves me bringing a large van down narrow lines, so I am being considerate as well as saving money. The same works for city visits as well as the mountains.
Definitely worth it in the Cairngorms alone plus many other areas. Saves time and using muscles in a different way helps on long days.
Was a mountain biker before i was a hiker, love them both, and when combined, can save a lot of time, not to mention be great fun👍. Shame about missing out on the views for this adventure, but a pleasure to watch as always, apart from the midge attack, that made me feel itchy 😂😲. Thanks for taking us along, biking or hiking, we are here for it 👊
Cheers
Pete and Shell
"Stay safe out there," 😃
Thanks Murray you've got me addicted to Scottish Mountains ⛰️
Good one Murray. Just been talking to my granddaughters fiancée as we was going into climb beinn Breac without a bike and was giving him advice about getting a bike for these long trips. I did this hill along with Macdui and Derry Cairngorms on a hot day and my mates chain broke on the way in so had to tow him on the way back. Strangely another trip my chain broke but had the tool to fix it. Another good video worth the wait to watch it.
Ah no - had a chain break on me once and Halfords had serviced it the week before - when I took it too a different bike shop for repair they asked why a child chain had been put onto the adult bike 😖😣 never went back to first place for a service after that !! Lol
A bike on that track seems like joy. But taking a bike up a track to the Mamores like you did with Gerry was no mean task 😅 The heather was amazing and the gorgeous Scots pines. Thanks for taking us along....Alioban ❤🐕🐕
Thanks for braving the fearsome Scottish Midge to bring us another interesting & entertaining vidio 👌
🙏👍
Can't beat a good freewheel back off the hill. Got a Hornet sting once and was glad of the bike to get back quick. The ultimate winged pest. Great outing Murray.
Ouch ! Glad the bike enabled you to get back quickly - sounds painful !
Yes Murray I agree bikes are useful in some situations think was ideal for you on that trip loved the video thanks take care jg
Thanks John - much appreciated
Thanks for watching
ATB
Murray
What a great video. I like that you rode the bike on that beautiful trail with all that heather in bloom. It certainly shortened the length of time to get you closer for the hike up the Monroe. The swim in the river was the perfect ending to a successful day. Cheers, safe travels.
Loved this one even though I was scratching the whole time those midges are persistent little you know what's. Love watching wether you are on your bike although sometimes it looks like very hard work or walking
Thanks Julie 🙏 very much appreciated
For long walks into the start of a climb it is definitely worth the faff of taking a bike 👍
Gosh, those midges are persistent little critters. You certainly need a bike to outrun them.
Another enjoyable video thanks Murray. The drone footage was amazing. You certainly chose a beautiful location. Thanks for sharing.
Murry,
Interesting video. Personally I think there is a place for a bike. I have used a tourer to get to destinations and wild camp in the UK. Also have done touring cycle/camping in the Netherlands, along the Rhine and to get me up mount Ventoux from a campsite in France. Cycling doesn't necessarily detract from the overall hiking, camping experience but it depends on what you are doing....for instance I wouldn't use a bike on a long distance hike such as WHW...but on a day hike it can reduce the time it takes.....each to their own.
Once the blue sky broke through it looked wonderful scenery. Not sure when you made this video but thought the midge season would have been past its worst at the back end of October.....or are those ones the last stand....😅
Thanks for sharing
You missed an advantage on the bikes Murray....They're lots of fun :) Good stuff as always mate. Cheers
Those midge are horrible, worst than our flies it looks like. Agree on the bike and yes living in Australia my perception of remote is a lot different. Another entertaining video Murray, you can stick your cold water dip though lol, I don't get in the water until its at least 35 here.😄
I wish the water was that warm back here ! Lol 😂
Always a pleasure Murray.
Not far into my munro journey, thinking of getting an E-bike. Mainly to allow me to carry in more gear for overnights and save the legs after big days. Well done on keeping the videos coming must be tough but every week. I look forward to seeing it. Thanks from another wilkie
🙏👍 thank you - very much appreciated- it can be a little tricky getting one every week (especially at the moment :( ) got a few more in the bag (not actually been out for weeks and relying on some previously filmed vlogs !
Really appreciate you watching and commenting 👍
ATB
Murray
We had second-hand bikes for our munros. Climbing Lurg Mhor etc, we used the bikes, cursing as we lifted the bikes over all the deer fences, but glad on the way down. On our last one in the area, we realised the gate lifted off the hinges 😅
Ah no - disaster- nothing worse than finding that out at the end of the cycle !!
Great video, but wow, the midge were crazy. Thanks Murray, helps a lot!
Thanks Rick - much appreciated
Thanks for watching
Murray
Got to be a big plus in areas like that especially escaping the midges
Haha - it worked well on this trip (until I had to stop and lock it up - then they got me good !!) 😳😂
Used my trusty old bike along that same track in early june (midge free!) to do Carn A Mhairm , lochan Uaine and Cairn Toul. No way I would walk it, that track went on for miles!
I got back to it quite late, hid it in the grass like you did. Was so glad to have it for the relatively quick ride back to Linn of Dee in the dark. Will likely do it again for Ben Avon.
Absolutely pro bike, purely for the fun of it all 🚲! Keep biking Murray 🙌🏻
🙏👍
Yes yes yes ! Bikes all the way. As someone who's been hampered by a bad knee for years the e-bike is the best thing since someone learned to slice a load of bread. The Cairngorms are great for the bikes.
They're essential 😁
I used a Trek full suspension when hiking in Scotland. I cycled to Alder 🤣 and up Glen Ey and others, fabulous fun. The cycle into Glen Tilt and up into the back of Carn an Righ were very enjoyable.
Currently use an eMTB, its amazing 😮 cycle to the nearest towns, 70km round trip and its effortless 🤣
Apologies for the long reply 😔
🍀
Great video. Had a few chuckles......especially when you realised you'd started hiking with your bike helmet still on 😂 imagine if you hadn't realised until you were at the summit 😂 the midges looked horrendous 😬
I’d forgot my head if it wasn’t screwed on 😂😂
hi murray absolutely defiantly bike a got bike and agree great. veiw love no sure about have a did love it canny wait till nxt week 👍👍
Definitely pro bikes. Some of the more remote Munros (Cairn Gorms & surrounding hills) would not be accessible without a bike - at least not for us. Thanks for uploading, Murray. 🏴🏔👍
You need to trademark Midgageddon! Boy, the views of the Cairngorms were wonderful! I do think you’re nuts, however, dunking yourself in the River Dee. 🥶
Cheers, and ATB!
it was a cold dook Erin - but at least the beasties couldn't submerge them selves!!lol - it was just the parts of the body left out above the water that were attacked!!lol
Thanks for watching
ATB
Murray
I got an e bike after a big operation back in 2017 it turned out to be absolutely life changing for me. People sometimes think it’s cheating but it’s not. As I got fitter I stopped using the power completely. The bike is 25 kilo so it takes more energy to ride, I only use the power going up hills. now.As you get older you forget how much fun it is to ride a bike. Cheers James
I must admit the e bikes do look goood :)
@@ScotlandsMountains get one, I promise you, you will not regret it. Halfords do a try before you buy for a day or so I think 🤔
Deffo pro bike. Have been a cyclist before I got into hiking. Love to head out into the hills just on the bike gets me away from people alot quicker when I need it 😂 and yes the pros go straight into an ice bath after races. Stops the aching on stage races. I'm cold adverse especially in the rivers up here. 🥶
Not sure I could do an ice bath - the Linn of Dee in August was cold 🥶 enough 😂😂😂
Your a Mountain athlete & oot aw the time so you need that ice bath. 😉 Cannae beat a bike n hike. Wild camp chucked in anaw for good measure.
😂 a mountain something .a def bit an athlete 😂
Im with you on this one Murray. I have always used a bike as im not a fan of the long walk -ins. I like to start as early as possible and get ahead of the crowds so to speak as I prefer solitude in the hills. As you say it can be a bit of a faff taking the bike at times but it's definitely worth it in the end. I have noticed more e-bikes being used now in the hills even met a guy on his way up Carn an Righ from Dalmunzie hotel with his bike. I have one and they are a game changer but haven't used it in the hills because its so heavy to get in the car so use an analogue bike..
I did some bikepacking and hillwalking from Corrour last week. The problem was, some of the tracks that looked good on the aerial OS map were actually nightmarish bog - completely energy-sapping and definitely not suitable for my basic mountain biking skills! Ended up doing one less hill than planned, but still enjoyed it. At least there were no midges.
I was in Halfords the other day pricing up their bikes and generally getting some advice on what bike will be suitable. Now that I have done most within a fairly reasonable drive from home I will definitely need to invest in one especially for the Cairngorms. Thanks again for the worthwhile advice on this week's video it has helped massively Murray.
Don't buy a bike in Halfords
@@kennycunn1 why?
Cheers Murray. Another user friendly vlog 👌
On my first visit to the Cairngorms via Glen Lui I walked in and out. Man, that was painful. Biked into Derry Lodge the next time - I was sooo glad of the (mostly) downhill exit.👍I'm for anything human powered 😁
Ah yes that downhill cycle from Derry Lodge to linn of Dee is bliss :)
I’m defo a pro biker Murray, just wish I’d got my e-bike a lot earlier. Fantastic for getting into the more out the way munros or hills, got a bike rack fitted to car which makes a big diff, only downside is, I seem to crash a lot 😂😂
Ive been thinking about this a wee bit recently so glad to see this video recommended. Be the cycle to work scheme for me too 😂
Think the cycle to work scheme saves a little bit for sure :) 👌
Just watching you getting attacked during Midgageddon (how would you even spell that 😂) was horrifying, made me uncomfortable even from here! Def pro bike, I think if it helps or assists people in doing something they love, why not? Yes there's pros and cons, just have to weigh them. Beautiful views, 1:17, 10:21, 13:23. Ahhh, you have no idea how refreshing that dunk looked, and if it helped you and your wife escape the wee demons, all the better. Thanks once again Murray! 👋
Back in the 70s pre the advent of mountain bikes I know at least one well known bagger was cycling into the Munros.
I am coming up to the cairngorms in a few weeks. We are going to hire bikes this time. Im not much of a walker, so i cant wait to get on the bike! Also heading from linn of dee as we stay there in a rented cottage ❤️
I have a 29incher for the longer hill walks and it makes those long walks accessible throughout winter especially in the Cairngorms
And gives you so many more options during the limited daylight hours.
Have you considered porn 😂😂
Love the channel murray.
🙏
I think it’s worth investing in a bike. And that means you have options so to speak.
I’ve experienced the midge and my goodness it’s blooming awful. One time it was so bad that my friends and myself had to abandon a wild camping spot up in Torridon. We ended up driving out to the coast where the sea breeze kept them at bay.
They can be awful . I remember years ago turning up at the torrid on campsite about 11 pm and we didn’t even get the tent set up because of the swarms of midge ! We did the same as you and headed for the coast ! Lol 😂
Hi Murray.
I think if I lived in Scotland I’d definitely get a bike. Down here in the lakes it’s not really needed, beside which it’s just someone else for me to fall off. I can be bad enough on my feet. 🤣🤣
Haha - I know the feeling - have broken my arm ( and seperately - a few broken ribs too) on bike falls over the years !!
Thanks for watching as always Dave 🙏
Thanks
Murray
got a wee tip for you for the midgies !! Avon "skin so soft" really works better than anything else. you can walk through them and watch them all fly away
Bikes are awesome. There is so much of Scotland you can access by taking a bike on the train which is what I did for a decade when I didn't have a car. A surprising amount of munros are accessible by such means. You can bike pack into an area to camp and then be free to bike/hike over a week. Torridon and Glen Affric are great for this. But the biggest thing is that the descending of a mountain on a bike is such a buzz. I've never regretted taking a bike anywhere (some companions might not have enjoyed 'challenging' adventures so much) but many times I have regretted not taking the bike.
You are so correct - the going downhill but at the end of a long day is a joy on the bike :)
Thanks for watching
ATB
Murray
Great video Murray. When was this.? I thought the midges died out after the first frost?
Can definitely be a big advantage Murray especially if its an Ebike 🚴 but it can also be a hindrance ie: dealing with punctures, overloaded panniers snapping off, and even the rear bike rack somehow managing to twist and snap off 😞 and yes they all happened to me 😂 I have made a few modifications since those unfortunate incidents, and so far so good , fingers crossed 🤞 Mon the bike's 🚴 😂 atb Brian 👍
The bike is certainly useful in the hills for the reasons you have set out, opens up lots of different routes that can be done in a day rather than needing multi-day trips. Of course some enjoy the backpacking experience so each to their own. I did have one unfortunate incident when going up Gulvain from Kinlocheil, had bike in car but forgot to put in front wheel. Oops. Extra 7km walk each way on track with winter boots was annoying! Also best to be equipped with spare inner tube and some essential tools, just in case. Would be painful to have a breakdown a long way from carpark.
Many years ago I spent hundreds of pounds on a good mountain bike for specifically the reasons you mention, especially after many long walk ins to Cairngorm peaks, and wanting a better approach to remote mountains like Ben Alder etc. But it never got used for that because I never got round to fixing a bike rack to my car for the long journey up from Lincolnshire. I certainly wish that I had now though :)
That’s one disadvantage ie getting the bike tk the start of the route !
Another great watch Murray. When does the midge season usually finish in the Cairngorms as those blighters looked pretty minging?
Hoping they should have gone by now - this was filmed a few weeks ago when they were still feasting on human blood! Lol 😂
Definitely many pluses fir bikes.....especially the new fangled electric ones.....but pricey.
Dare I say it. It’s not just a means to an end and does not need justification. Mountain biking taken as half seriously as hill walking is just as much fun.
Often used a bike to avoid a long walk-in especially in Scotland.
I can’t abide midges and avoid The Highlands between June and September.
Looks great 👍🙂
Certainly was (apart from the rain !!) 🌧️
Buying a second hand bike and maintaining it yourself needn't be expensive and if you take out some tools and parts, you can fix almost anything that can go wrong. Ferrying the bike to and from the hike is a pain, especially a muddy bike if you don't have a carrier rack.
Combination locks are very easy to crack so if you feel a need to lock up, suggest you get a cable with a key lock -alternatively, you could take away a small essential part such as the front axle.
Forget the bike - it's The Midge that has the biggest impact on people walking the Highlands. Scotland's tourism would be massively higher if something could be done about The Midge (aka the biting blighters).
Definately slight difference in H (hiking) and B (biking) muscles! Youll have to haul out the packraft? 🤣🍻
Love your drone footage, can I ask which drone you use?
A bike is well worth it.....I've not walked a lot of mountains with big walk ins, but I would have killed for a bike to save me a few KMs of walking after descending from a day in the hills. Plus, a bike is fun! (Unlike taking a dip in freezing water! lol)
haha - true statement - the dook was certainly cold Julian!!lol
Thanks for watching
ATB
Murray
100% bike n hike when you can, especially the area you were in with long riverside tracks. Doesn’t detract from taking in the views, only an opportunist thief may steal the bike as unlikely a tea leaf would hike all the way to remote area on the off chance that there’s a bike to steal and the owner is not about.
I don’t use a car/van so train + bike + hike in combination a big plus! I’m therefore always keen to find a mountain that is accessible by public transport with or without a bike. This Munro looked very bouldery at the top. Is it as inhospitable to camping as it looked in the (misty) pictures?
I reckon you could find a spot (as long as your not expedition a flat pool table patch of grass ! 😂👍 good luck
@@ScotlandsMountains thanks!
I once had someone dressed head to toe in Goretex waterproofs look down their nose at me for biking into the hills because “that wasn’t how the originals did it back in the day”. Annoyingly I didn’t have the energy to point out the irony 😂
Pro bike ✅👊🏻
👍
Whilst i do a lot of cycling, mostly road round the countryside, probably avoid taking bike while hiking and climbing because the longer and slower it is outdoors the more i enjoy emmersing myself in the outdoors. Obviously having limited time the bike is important i guess.
I can understand that too - although you can cover more distance you maybe do t take the surroundings in as much on the bike as always concentrating on no falling off :) lol
@@ScotlandsMountains quite normal for me to stay in the same place or area more than a day especially if it's beautiful and views etc, wildlife, plants, flowers, birds, insects and everything else lol, love taking in all of those things. Guess when time is limited the bike is a good thing.
before I watch the video the answer is either a bike or a tent to break up your munro trip😊
How many ticks on average do you find on yourself/pack on these trips in the wild?
None now that I nose permethrin 👍 did a video about my experience with Lyme - ua-cam.com/video/Rl2oixFNXE4/v-deo.htmlsi=tUFN_eafnGsUvqJC
Is there no hiker who has ever found meeting (a group of) bikers on the trail quite a nuisance?
Of course you should get a bike... but would you leave your nearest and dearest padlocked to a tree for a few hours whilst you went galivanting across the hills? of course not and you shouldnt do the same with your beloved bike.. take it with you and remember a bike isn't just for Christmas (or the first few miles of a trip out) but is your faithful steed and companion and should accompany you far into the wilds, additionally you can talk to it when you're in your tent, opps I've just dropped some marbles and they've rolled under the couch... brb...
😂😂😳
I'm avoiding two wheels😅. A fall could be a bit risky these days.
I rented an mtb in the 80s to cycle in to the Lairig ghru from Braemar. That was the last time I attempted taking a bike offroad. I basically had it over my shoulder😅
Yeah, on some of the long walk ins it could be useful but I could just walk in and make it an overnighter.
Maybe an electric trike😅😅😅
I remember the last time I was in the Lairig Ghru and noted how rocky the path was - not the best one for a bike !! I feel your pain!!lol Electric bike do have an appeal I must admit - just a little pricey for my liking!
Thanks for watching
ATB
Murray
The Lairig grhu is a hard trail to bike and a full suspension is needed but there are trails like to Ben Alder, Lurg Mhor that have land rover tracks that can be cycled into without much effort.
Pro bike, descents are a lot more fun!
Wear a smij net!!!! :D
Who was the proper sicko that actually invented the midge?
Why does only Svotland have these crazy midges? Is there a scientific reason it's so bad? And can anything be done about this ? I'm sure it ruins Scotlands tourist economy !
You really should bungee your pack to that pannier rack Murray - the feeling of riding with nothing on your back is a game changer and you just don’t notice the weight when the bike’s carrying it
I actually do have some pannier racks - however they were pretty cheap ones , thinking of investing in some more robust ones soon me things - totally agree with you on that point though :)
Thanks for watching
ATB
Murray