That looked more like a MTB ride than a gravel ride, especially for a beginer. Not all riding is for everyone. If you don't enjoy gravel, then you don't have to do it. Ride your ride and enjoy every mile!
I have a problem with showing my emotions and letting go of anger and frustration because of the way I was treated by my mother as a child. It feels alien to do it and difficult but it is as you said at the end of the vlog...better for you if you can. I have to say that that was more that a gravel ride to be fair and I don't think I would have enjoyed that, myself. I have always thought that gravel riding came out of fire road riding in America and Scandinavia where they have lots of forest and because a gravel road is cheaper to maintain than tarmaced roads. That was a cross/MTB trail at best.
That looked more for a cross country bike. No gravel roads over there. If that first section was gravel, I would hate to see what your rock garden looks like! Maybe Boulder garden!! Love your Videos!!!
I am impressed that you uploaded this a lot of people only show perfection online. You are authentic and that's your strength. I think Nigel needs a talking to about the route that was a hiking trail not a gravel ride.
Not going to lie, that doesn’t look like fun to me, it wasn’t even gravel just unrideable nonsense, so don’t beat yourself up too much and stick to road x
Aww, Amy i felt so bad for you, you had every right to be anxious. I would have been pissed at "nigel" personally! That ride for someone just starting was the worse, thx to Nigel the jerk, starting to not like that guy..seriously that was mess ,I can't believe he took you on that crazy walk up rocks. Amy, you should not at all feel bad about that ride/hike . Nigel made a bad choice, don't trust his opinion on rides, do rail trails instead. Get some hot coco and put the road tires back on and lose Nigel phone # for awhile .. he doesn't seem to have your best interests in mind for you. Kyle is nice to come get ya, all the hugs .x
If the rest of Derby Mercury CC are like Nige, remind me not to join. I had the same issue when I belonged to a Nottingham cycling club, the old guard thinking they know best! Gravel is so much fun when you haven't got someone barking at you. Loads of flat gravel east of Nottingham, leading to Sherwood Pines and Clumber Park or Vale of Belvoir. God bless Kyle.
Absolutely no interest in riding gravel and I was starting to wonder if I was missing out. Thank you for this, I’m now 100% sticking to my opinion of gravel being overrated!!! I didn’t like Nigel’s shit sandwich either 🤮 Let’s ride on the roads soon girl, we need to meet and have some fun!!! ❤❤❤
@@MyLouTube keep your eyes out I believe Amy will be doing some all girl road rides in the near future. Oh bugger if I have said that before I should have I will get another storm of 💩from her Tifosi but hey I will risk it, and you will be safe that bastardos will not be making an appearance. 😏
Those were some mountain bike trails, not gravel. Not the same thing! There was a lot of abuse that was NOT ok. You may find you’ll enjoy gravel more when it’s gravel… not big ass rocks that require a full sus bike.
I think they lied to you - looks more like boulder riding! 😳 You made the right call. As soon as it stops being fun and you lose confidence then there is no shame in taking time out and waiting for another day. The New Forest has some great gentle routes if you want to get confidence and practice. Have a look at Woods Cyclery in Lyndhurst. They do some great ride outs. Also, tubeless is the way forward. 👍
Nothing wrong with a quick cry. I hike a lot in an effort to try and regain my mental and physical well-being. Not every trip is easy and it has a huge affect. Loving the channel. Thank you. Keep fighting.
Amy, you did great. Honestly, I’m surprised they didn’t tell you (or maybe they did when the camera wasn’t on) but that seemed like much closer to a MTB trail than gravel on most parts. Either way, can’t expect to go out there full speed first few times you give it a try. You will build confidence over time. Keep up the great work.
You summed it up in that last bit, if you're not enjoying it, bin it off. Life is too short and too precious to be dealing with stuff you don't enjoy. Unfortunately it took me way too long to figure this out but now I ride my bike, do stuff I enjoy, say no to negativity and goodbye to anyone toxic = happy bunny
Agreed try things road racing, audax, gravel, rough stuff all things two wheels and decide what you want to ride. Don’t ever let other people tell you what you should or should not ride or enjoy. Surround yourself with people that will support you and challenge you to be the best you want to be, but most of all don’t believe everything you see on social media. It ain’t all as it may seem.
Hi Amy, Well done. If this is how your club leader (Nigel) talks down to you, belittling all you do, i would be looking for a better club. Ive watched many of your videos and really dislike the way he talks to you. His feedback is, never encouraging, far from it. This is certainly not how i would expect anyone to talk. This ride was NOT gravel it was off road Cycle Cross.. Im pleased you had the courage to leave the ride. Stick to the cycling you enjoy, Cycle Cross which that was, is not for everyone. It is a skilled discipline, as is MTB. Choose your discipline to your style of riding, if you enjoy road excellent, if you want to try another then all credit to you. Don't beat yourself up over anything if its not right for you. Remember, you've tried it, its not your thing, its fine move on. Anyways Amy keep going, dont worry about the others, enjoy your rides, do what makes you happy. Don't let others be little you, or put you down. That was no way a Gravel ride, if Nigel told you it was he is a liar, end off. Ive been riding 45 years, on and off, im still no expert, every ride i learn something new and different. I ride a simple Sonder Camino AL gravel bike, i have road tyres on, 700c x 32. I feel confident enough on them to ride light gravel and road on them. Remember to feather your brakes on both, road and gravel. Keep on riding and enjoy them, keep your head up high and stay positive. Well done, your an inspiration to many. Unlike many other riders posting vlogs on here, you keep it real, not fake. Good luck Amy ❤ Just one other thing, ive often thought of joining clubs, but to be honest, i like riding at my pace without pressure from others. I challenge and motivate myself. If you want to do Audaxes, or other challenges, you can do these without being a club member. Remember its always you choice. ❤
That's definitely a MTB ride. I always saw a Gravel bike as a comfortable road bike... Too much bump for a bike without suspension... You did really well though. Thought for food: Kyle should open a business "Rescued by Kyle"
That was a MTB trail, you would have had a much better time on a XC MTB. Especially for your first try that was just silly by the group to suggest that. You did the right thing pulling out and going to where you felt comfortable. Have a go on the gravel bike again but figure out some routes on strava and go alone, or with someone supportive like Kyle. That way you can figure out what is good and bad rather than feel pressured to ride everything!
I have to say, Nige picked a _horrible_ route for a beginner - most of that is *_not_* "gravel." Maybe try planning your own route on Kamoot or wherever you can see the terrain beforehand.
That’s cross country mountain biking. Gravel is what is says, off road on gravel tracks. Not rock garden climbs. Try finding a more gravely route. Well done, not your fault.
This is definitely not suitable for a gravel bike. This is clearly mountain bike trail and no wonder you didn’t like it! Also, the tough love approach might work for some, but for most it has the total opposite effect and makes you feel like crap. If you’re already self critical, then someone being critical on top is an absolute nightmare. Make sure you go out with someone who knows a better route Amy and who will be supportive!
Gravel biking, more like Gravel Hiking😂 Edit - Amy, those trails were not gravel ones! They were mountain biking ones. I ride MTB too sometimes but I'd have been miffed if I'd have been taken on those when expecting all gravel. You and Kyle should make a gravel route that is properly LB friendly. Then go ride it, just the two of you. You'll have heaps more fun, whilst building your confidence 😊
Let’s hope that Derby Mercury R.C. don’t get any funding based on diversity and inclusivity… Oh wait, this from the home page of their website ‘… its objectives are the encouragement of cycling and other outdoor activities.’ The ‘the beatings will continue’ school of encouragement, obvs 🙄
Kind of annoyed by this. That was not a gravel ride. The people you were with should have helped. I would never leave a colleague with a wounded bike to fend for themselves and I would never drive past someone with a wounded bike at the roadside, especially not a young lady. What’s the matter with people! I’m biased because I don’t care for off road riding but that wasn’t a good route for a first timer. Stick to what you enjoy, Amy, and tell the group you were with to grow up?
They set you up for failure with that goat trail. That wasn’t gravel. It looks like you found some gravel eventually. 😮 There’s no reason to be upset. It would be like showing up to play futbol wearing ice skates. Some tire levers would make your tire changing life much easier too.
Amy, this edition of your latest productions, showed well. The Countryside looked great, trails a little tough. Nigel's sarcasm, could have appeared in an old Monty Python sketch.
If I'm expecting a gravel bike ride and the crew took me to a course like that I would split off and go my own way. That is definitely not gravel or fun to take a gravel bike on. Any wonder you didn't enjoy that ride. Gravel is still smooth just doesn't have blacktop. Even smooth gravel will beat you to fatigue faster than the road.
I agree with some of the previous comments. Do what you like to do. If off road isn't your cup of tea. That's fine. I wouldn't take my bike on that track.
Not for me. Too much flagging . Too rough. To bad for the cleats. And this makes it hard to do strong efforts. So naaah. . I would have to go on a turbo for a hour after that. But keep winding up Nigel, just maybe he will snap one day . That will be gold
You are totally right Amy, if you don't enjoy it, don't do it. Just a second before you said it, my wife said she (you) are not enjoying the ride, and one of the reasons you ride is for stress relief and this seems to be having the opposite effect. My wife and I avoid that sort of route and if we have to ride on bumpy stuff we both start apologising to our bikes😅
No way Nigel should have taken you on that route as a beginner. Most of the sections I saw were not appropriate for a gravel bike regardless of rider experience.
That's just a hard walk in cycling shoes with a bike on your shoulder. Go and ride e.g. Tissington Trail or look around for better rides. Nigel telling you sht is akin to what people used to tell my wife about saddles and riding. Follow my line and you'll be ok. Good to know the old school bllx hasn't changed.
That was really cross country riding. Gravel riding implies horse paths/fire roads etc. I also find its' where eMTB's make a lot of sense. I've done paths like that on a regular MTB and on uphills because of the grass/rocks you're full gas (Z4-5) just to stay on the bike. With an eMTB it takes the edge off so you can actually enjoy an endurance ride. The fatter tyres and bigger disc breaks/suspension helps too over a regular MTB.
You should come and ride some proper gravel roads here in Scotland. I agree with others that looked more like MBT and I never need to hike a bike on a gravel ride. You were absolutely right to call it a day when you weren't happy but don't give up entirely on gravel. There are much nicer routes that are easier to start with. You are amazing Amy and that you for sharing your fears. It's not an easy thing to do but we all feel the same at some point. Loving your videos - keep on finding what you enjoy x
Seriously - be careful with your ankle - give it time to heal properly. I damaged my achilles playing cricket and continue to play with it strapped up and through the pain because I loved playing cricket so much. Then one day it snapped. That meant no cricket for months and it was never the same again and eventually I had to give up the love of my life because I was playing constantly in pain.
Like many have pointed out in the comments - that was not a gravel ride!! I live near the New Forest and you would love it. Proper gravel (fire road) tracks. No huge boulders which even MTBs might struggle with. It is so much fun - and you would be yippee-ing all the way! Well done you for going along - but your team mates must have known that was not gravel and for you as a newbie on gravel it was ridiculous for them to suggest it was. I have never seen anyone carrying their bike like you guys had to on gravel. And all that grass - trying to get across cattle fields! What was that?! Not gravel! It did look a thoroughly awful ride and I think it would have stressed those of us who are more accustomed to gravel. Definitely don't give up yet though. Tubeless and low inflation is definitely the way to go and far more comfy if you are on gravel and not a mountain! If you get the chance to ride a Glorious Gravel event, they are very well organised, very well supported events with great food and mechanical support and you would be amazed to see it is nothing like your ride. It will be proper gravel 🙂 Maybe check some out on YT and you'll see what they're about. Dear Kyle - he is such a great guy. You two are so good together! Looking forward to the next adventures.
The issue with UK gravel rides is they are more MTB routes, you need to have a ride on a 29er hardtail mountain bike. Going downhill without front suspension and wide handle bars. I have been riding MTB's for years, for fun and racing Enduro/Cross Country. I then bought a CX bike and going downhill on drop bars is a nightmare. And your right, if you don't enjoy it, don't do it.
That was ridiculous, way too dangerous for a beginner and just not worth the risk. Stick to what you’re good at; not many men can ride 395 miles in 24 hours. And you have a perfect physique for road riding, smooth and stylish. What you did was a sign of strength to follow your gut feeling and do the right thing and not be swayed by the influence of others.
I wouldn’t bother riding with Nigel in the future. For a first timer that route was looked very difficult. Gravel may be the ‘in’ thing atm, but doesn’t mean you have to do it. Stick to the road if that makes you happy. If you leg is still sore then rest it, if you keep riding it is only going to make it worse in the longer run.
One piece of advice I would give you to enjoy the descents more would be to ride in the drops as it gives you a lot more control, just be sure your levers are at the right reach so you can cover them if needed. As for the ascent, it would have been tough on an eMTB, let alone a gravel bike.
As someone who started on a mountain bikes and have competed, in cross country but also road ride now. Gravel bikes really are not great off road and don’t instil confidence, especially to a new comer, to off road! Anyone that gives any negative feedback to a newcomer (to gravel)) really is a pri#k!! Amy borrow a light hard tail MTB and have blast on an easy route to build up your confidence. It does come.
Kyle is the best-he is a hero. But please don't be too proud to add tire levers to your tool kit. I have never understood why some riders shame others for using such a helpful tool.
That's not gravel. Our MTB trails are less gnarly than that. What the heck are you guys even doing? Nobody scouts out these routes before the whole club goes hike-a-bike? edit: Also, Amy, FFS get to a bike fitter who has a quick-change seatpost thingy and tons of saddles so you can get off that PBP seat and onto something more agreeable. edit 2: Put 2 tire levers in your saddle bag. it's super hard to unseat the bead on wide tires but you can work it out with a lever about 100x easier than by hand. Use one to pry and the other to get under the bead, and the rest of the tire goes nice and easy from there.
You could well be fatigued after PBP! I get weepy when I’m really tired too. And I’m rubbish at gravel as well, in fact, I just don’t like it much! Give tubeless a try as well. Punctures very, very rare, and when you do get one it’s often fixable with a plug. I haven’t taken a tyre off at the side of the road for 2 years.
I ride a lot of gravel but that was experienced MTB rider territory. I would have bailed out long before you did, and I’m not a failure. It would have helped if Nigel had recognised the difference between reluctance and fear. Don’t let it put you off as there are some great tracks and trails that are pure joy to ride.
No shame Amy! As other viewers have noted, that ride was as much MTB as gravel. If you do go out again on similar terrain with the same bike and tires take special care to adjust the tire pressure as low as safely possible for added comfort on the bumpy bits. Hope your ankle is feeling better!
A lot depends. You need to know a person. As an outsider it is difficult to understand northern banter and humour and this sort of thing is often done in a light hearted way.
I have noticed in a few video's he does talk down to Amy. It's like he thinking I've been cycling like this for years and you haven't so do it my way or its wrong . For me personally I have no time for people like that rather cycle on my own .
@@Stevenv74 I have come across people with a similar nature in life. They mean no harm by it - it's just a little gentle ribbing but his intentions are pure. It is clear to see in the video where he teaches Amy about the different bike components. I bet you a pound to a penny that if you were in trouble he'd be there in a flash.
That isn't gravel at all, vast majority was MTB. Get yourself to Galloway for some proper gravel. Terrible route planned by the team there for a gravel ride
Amy, that’s a tough course for a beginner to gravel or MTB, we’re local to you and would love to help you get your confidence up on some of our routes!!!
I’ve done part of that route on my mountain bike , full suspension and was rough enough , it’s not a gravel route ! … so don’t give up on gravel riding .. there are much better tracks in Peak District for gravel riding which I go on
PBP, Audax question please. Do the two of you set up your tires tubeless or with tubes, and also how do most riders set up their tires? On the one hand tubeless seems popular now and may prevent some flats, but as soon as there is a major flat, it seems it would be a pain and one would be switching to a tube anyway. I’m truly enjoying your videos, am glad I found your channel, and told one of my riding friends today to check out your channel. Best and thanks!
Ahh thank you do much, glad you like the channel! We went tubes for PBP, there was a mixture of both but we felt safer knowing we could fix a puncture with tubes! I think there's pros and cons of both, I am tempted by tubeless!
You ought to the High Peak Trail, then down Tissington, on to the Manifold Trail and join up to the Monsal Trail. If you park up in Matlock you can head up to the High Peak Trail via the Cromford Canal. Predominately gravel; none of that grassy nonsense. It's a great circular route you can do with Kylie, its an introductory route to the world of gravel in your neck of the woods; you'll love it. Did this myself with a friend in April.
Ohhh thank you! Think I need to go on your strava and pinch the route! I've ridden on the Monsal trail when I first started with my Dad would love to ride there again!
Interesting as that ‘gravel’ route was a lot more like the single-track sections of some gravel races I have done. Super challenging and scary, but if all gravel was like that I’d be doing way more road than gravel. And as others have pointed out, the group you were riding with were not really supportive which is the exact opposite of any gravel riding people I have encountered. The biggest allure to gravel riding has been the openness and supportiveness of the people I meet.
Derbyshire has the roughest gravel routes on Komoot that I have so far experienced. On one ride the dirt road suddenly was totally washed out (eroded) with random 50cm deep trenches in it (I walked that on the side of the "road" for hundreds of meters). SInce then I'm very carefully checking on google satellite pics where the komoot route takes me...
For what it's worth, the way you feel on gravel is the same way I feel on the road. Btw, that looked a lot more like a cross-country ride than a gravel ride.
I did lots of mountainbiking in the 90s when I was in my 30s and that sort of terrain would have been physically challenging on 2" tyres and a suspension fork. Personally I think riding that on a gravel bike (road bike with fat tyres) is insane. You are not a failure - you are awe inspiring. Your personal journey and your recent PBP are testimony to this. Also a huge shout out to Kyle - you two demonstrate what marriage is all about (I speak from 34 years of wonderful marriage). Also shocked/surprised that no one stopped to offer you assistance. I never ride or drive past someone stopped at the alone roadside without asking if they need help.
Hey Amy, first of all, well done for giving that a go and that looked tough! Second , have you heard of the “tyre glider”? This is a fantastic tool for people of all abilities and so easy to use! I highly recommend you check it out and purchase one! It works amazingly well on tight tyres on tight rims and doesn’t require brute strength. Anyway hope this helps, keep up the great videos and amazing rides 😊
This. Or actually out of the saddle and use arms almost as shock absorbers. Although really shouldn't need 2 thst often if it's pure gravel. Occasionally yes but not like on that route
That’s mountain bike ride 😮.. not gravel Amy .. your response was 💯 .. correct 👍.. Nigel was being too hard !! Totally 💯.. Kyle LEGEND!!! You have a good seed with him Amy .. crying is healthy .. and listen to your fears and anxiety… acknowledging them is healthy .. if you feel unsafe down hills .. listen to yourself .. and if something isn’t for you and you tried .. that’s cool 😎 too 🍎 .. great content showing the ups and downs on the bike 🚴.. glad you ended on a positive.. cheers 🥰👏👏🥰
I love your honesty and willingness to try something new. I would not have wanted to do that ride either. You absolutely made the right decision and there’s no reason to feel bad. Great job!
Amy. You've got lots of people all pushing you along. Keep positive. We love you to bits. On the roads and Hills you fly like a bird. So, please don't worry. Well done fixing the tyre. All good experiences for you.
Failure is a part of learning, as we all know. Good to see you break down but pick yourself back up. Kyle got himself a strong woman. 👌 And also, i believe crying is one the healthiest ways to release emotions that bothers you. Wish I'd cry more often.
That looked more like a MTB ride than a gravel ride, especially for a beginer. Not all riding is for everyone. If you don't enjoy gravel, then you don't have to do it. Ride your ride and enjoy every mile!
I agree I think that ride would have been better on a MTB.
Agreed - just because a route _can_ be ridden on a particular bike doesn't mean it _should_ be. Most of that course was *not* "gravel." Come on, Nige.
That group was not supportive. It was much more MTB not gravel - find your own gravel routes and go at your own pace.
Well said Wendy 👏
This absolutely. That's a MTB route not a gravel ride. Any one under bike would be uneasy on that
Bang on. Poor Amy.
A footpath is for walking not cycling
@@chrisstrideragreed all of the routes used were Bridlepaths.
I have a problem with showing my emotions and letting go of anger and frustration because of the way I was treated by my mother as a child. It feels alien to do it and difficult but it is as you said at the end of the vlog...better for you if you can. I have to say that that was more that a gravel ride to be fair and I don't think I would have enjoyed that, myself. I have always thought that gravel riding came out of fire road riding in America and Scandinavia where they have lots of forest and because a gravel road is cheaper to maintain than tarmaced roads. That was a cross/MTB trail at best.
That looked more for a cross country bike. No gravel roads over there.
If that first section was gravel, I would hate to see what your rock garden looks like! Maybe Boulder garden!! Love your Videos!!!
😂
I am impressed that you uploaded this a lot of people only show perfection online. You are authentic and that's your strength. I think Nigel needs a talking to about the route that was a hiking trail not a gravel ride.
Can’t beat hike a bike
@@Misirableoldgitinamysvideos may as well just hike then. Bikes have wheels for a reason.
Nigels ego wouldn’t take a talking to
Nigel needs a shit sandwich feed back for taking a nervous beginner on that route. Totally unsuitable.
Nige, Nige, what were you thinking of ?!? 🤯
Not going to lie, that doesn’t look like fun to me, it wasn’t even gravel just unrideable nonsense, so don’t beat yourself up too much and stick to road x
Yes Gravel and Mountain biking are just Awful
Yep ! That wasn't gravel !
@@brianpurcell9058that was an MTB route !
Aww, Amy i felt so bad for you, you had every right to be anxious. I would have been pissed at "nigel" personally! That ride for someone just starting was the worse, thx to Nigel the jerk, starting to not like that guy..seriously that was mess ,I can't believe he took you on that crazy walk up rocks. Amy, you should not at all feel bad about that ride/hike . Nigel made a bad choice, don't trust his opinion on rides, do rail trails instead. Get some hot coco and put the road tires back on and lose Nigel phone # for awhile .. he doesn't seem to have your best interests in mind for you. Kyle is nice to come get ya, all the hugs .x
That looked more like a MTB ride than gravel! I wouldn’t have liked that either! Just stick to what you enjoy, nothing wrong with that 😁
Gravel riding Is great Amy. You just need to go with someone who knows what gravel is. Nigel is a pillock, this was MTB.
Wow, That's not just gravel. It's a real mountain bike ride. Good for you and Kyle to be by your side. Cheers
What a stupid route for gravel bikes! Definitely more suited to a mountain bike
If the rest of Derby Mercury CC are like Nige, remind me not to join. I had the same issue when I belonged to a Nottingham cycling club, the old guard thinking they know best! Gravel is so much fun when you haven't got someone barking at you. Loads of flat gravel east of Nottingham, leading to Sherwood Pines and Clumber Park or Vale of Belvoir. God bless Kyle.
Ever considered the off camera conversations may have been considerably different to the on screen act? 🤔
Huge respect for your effort! I believe calling that gravel was being pretty generous, I would call that 'mostly off road'.
Absolutely no interest in riding gravel and I was starting to wonder if I was missing out. Thank you for this, I’m now 100% sticking to my opinion of gravel being overrated!!! I didn’t like Nigel’s shit sandwich either 🤮
Let’s ride on the roads soon girl, we need to meet and have some fun!!! ❤❤❤
Ah someone who is old enough to remember the old shit sandwich of feedback.
To be fair that wasn't really a gravel ride. Gravel riding is great on the right route with some nice scenery to look at. 😀
@@Misirableoldgitinamysvideos bahahaha NIge, there he is. What a username!!! Apt.
@@MyLouTube keep your eyes out I believe Amy will be doing some all girl road rides in the near future. Oh bugger if I have said that before I should have I will get another storm of 💩from her Tifosi but hey I will risk it, and you will be safe that bastardos will not be making an appearance. 😏
Those were some mountain bike trails, not gravel. Not the same thing! There was a lot of abuse that was NOT ok. You may find you’ll enjoy gravel more when it’s gravel… not big ass rocks that require a full sus bike.
Think you were conned that was an MTB ride ! That was a dreadful introductory gravel ride, shame on Derby Mercury ! Well done Amy 👏👏
I think they lied to you - looks more like boulder riding! 😳 You made the right call. As soon as it stops being fun and you lose confidence then there is no shame in taking time out and waiting for another day. The New Forest has some great gentle routes if you want to get confidence and practice. Have a look at Woods Cyclery in Lyndhurst. They do some great ride outs. Also, tubeless is the way forward. 👍
Nigel was way off there taking you down there, that was MTB and XC territory and certainly not gravel, Nigel was pathetic…👍🏻
The route looked awful, clearly not suitable for a gravel bike. Chin up.
Nothing wrong with a quick cry. I hike a lot in an effort to try and regain my mental and physical well-being. Not every trip is easy and it has a huge affect. Loving the channel. Thank you. Keep fighting.
I enjoy watching Amy more than the Tour and the Vuelta! Very inspirational! And Kyle is awesome too.
Ah thank you so much 🥰
Kyle getting a call from Amy to fix a flat on the side of the road? Luckiest man on planet earth!
You and Kyle really are a dream team. Love every moment. Inspirational the both of you. I watch your videos and smile. Can’t wait to read the book ❤
Prickly old man on PBP is prickly old man on gravel ride. 🤷🏻♂️
Amy, you did great. Honestly, I’m surprised they didn’t tell you (or maybe they did when the camera wasn’t on) but that seemed like much closer to a MTB trail than gravel on most parts. Either way, can’t expect to go out there full speed first few times you give it a try. You will build confidence over time. Keep up the great work.
Kyle is really great guy!
That’s more like a mtb route
agreed, that was not a gravel ride. Can't stand Nigel, so condescending.
I agree, I couldn’t stand him around me, I would tell him where to go@@chrissywissythewishwishfairy
You summed it up in that last bit, if you're not enjoying it, bin it off. Life is too short and too precious to be dealing with stuff you don't enjoy. Unfortunately it took me way too long to figure this out but now I ride my bike, do stuff I enjoy, say no to negativity and goodbye to anyone toxic = happy bunny
Agreed try things road racing, audax, gravel, rough stuff all things two wheels and decide what you want to ride. Don’t ever let other people tell you what you should or should not ride or enjoy. Surround yourself with people that will support you and challenge you to be the best you want to be, but most of all don’t believe everything you see on social media. It ain’t all as it may seem.
It's what we love about you Amy, Your so real... 😉👍🏻
Hi Amy,
Well done.
If this is how your club leader (Nigel) talks down to you, belittling all you do, i would be looking for a better club.
Ive watched many of your videos and really dislike the way he talks to you.
His feedback is, never encouraging, far from it.
This is certainly not how i would expect anyone to talk.
This ride was NOT gravel it was off road Cycle Cross..
Im pleased you had the courage to leave the ride.
Stick to the cycling you enjoy, Cycle Cross which that was, is not for everyone. It is a skilled discipline, as is MTB.
Choose your discipline to your style of riding, if you enjoy road excellent, if you want to try another then all credit to you.
Don't beat yourself up over anything if its not right for you.
Remember, you've tried it, its not your thing, its fine move on.
Anyways Amy keep going, dont worry about the others, enjoy your rides, do what makes you happy.
Don't let others be little you, or put you down.
That was no way a Gravel ride, if Nigel told you it was he is a liar, end off.
Ive been riding 45 years, on and off, im still no expert, every ride i learn something new and different.
I ride a simple Sonder Camino AL gravel bike, i have road tyres on, 700c x 32. I feel confident enough on them to ride light gravel and road on them. Remember to feather your brakes on both, road and gravel.
Keep on riding and enjoy them, keep your head up high and stay positive.
Well done, your an inspiration to many.
Unlike many other riders posting vlogs on here, you keep it real, not fake.
Good luck Amy ❤
Just one other thing, ive often thought of joining clubs, but to be honest, i like riding at my pace without pressure from others. I challenge and motivate myself. If you want to do Audaxes, or other challenges, you can do these without being a club member.
Remember its always you choice. ❤
That Nige is a terrible rotter.
He's not a leader. This is not how you lead. Unfortunately, you are 💯 % correct. 😉
Should have said you're not a leader.
Not even a rotter, just egotistical 😂😂😂
Agreed. Comes across as a complete tool. Horrible bloke.@@Misirableoldgitinamysvideos
That's definitely a MTB ride. I always saw a Gravel bike as a comfortable road bike... Too much bump for a bike without suspension... You did really well though. Thought for food: Kyle should open a business "Rescued by Kyle"
That was a MTB trail, you would have had a much better time on a XC MTB. Especially for your first try that was just silly by the group to suggest that.
You did the right thing pulling out and going to where you felt comfortable. Have a go on the gravel bike again but figure out some routes on strava and go alone, or with someone supportive like Kyle. That way you can figure out what is good and bad rather than feel pressured to ride everything!
I have to say, Nige picked a _horrible_ route for a beginner - most of that is *_not_* "gravel." Maybe try planning your own route on Kamoot or wherever you can see the terrain beforehand.
That’s cross country mountain biking. Gravel is what is says, off road on gravel tracks. Not rock garden climbs.
Try finding a more gravely route. Well done, not your fault.
This is definitely not suitable for a gravel bike. This is clearly mountain bike trail and no wonder you didn’t like it! Also, the tough love approach might work for some, but for most it has the total opposite effect and makes you feel like crap. If you’re already self critical, then someone being critical on top is an absolute nightmare. Make sure you go out with someone who knows a better route Amy and who will be supportive!
Gravel biking, more like Gravel Hiking😂
Edit - Amy, those trails were not gravel ones! They were mountain biking ones. I ride MTB too sometimes but I'd have been miffed if I'd have been taken on those when expecting all gravel.
You and Kyle should make a gravel route that is properly LB friendly. Then go ride it, just the two of you. You'll have heaps more fun, whilst building your confidence 😊
Let’s hope that Derby Mercury R.C. don’t get any funding based on diversity and inclusivity…
Oh wait, this from the home page of their website ‘… its objectives are the encouragement of cycling and other outdoor activities.’
The ‘the beatings will continue’ school of encouragement, obvs 🙄
Kind of annoyed by this. That was not a gravel ride. The people you were with should have helped. I would never leave a colleague with a wounded bike to fend for themselves and I would never drive past someone with a wounded bike at the roadside, especially not a young lady. What’s the matter with people!
I’m biased because I don’t care for off road riding but that wasn’t a good route for a first timer. Stick to what you enjoy, Amy, and tell the group you were with to grow up?
Tbh. I wouldn’t ride with Nigel ever again. What’s his problem. You did well and needed support not that. And doing pbp is a fantastic achievement
They set you up for failure with that goat trail. That wasn’t gravel. It looks like you found some gravel eventually. 😮 There’s no reason to be upset. It would be like showing up to play futbol wearing ice skates.
Some tire levers would make your tire changing life much easier too.
That wasn’t gravel, it was freaking boulders and cow fields. I’m a roadie and prefer a smooth road.
Amy, this edition of your latest productions, showed well. The Countryside looked great, trails a little tough. Nigel's sarcasm, could have appeared in an old Monty Python sketch.
If I'm expecting a gravel bike ride and the crew took me to a course like that I would split off and go my own way. That is definitely not gravel or fun to take a gravel bike on. Any wonder you didn't enjoy that ride. Gravel is still smooth just doesn't have blacktop. Even smooth gravel will beat you to fatigue faster than the road.
I agree with some of the previous comments. Do what you like to do. If off road isn't your cup of tea. That's fine. I wouldn't take my bike on that track.
"Gravel"? more hardtail MTB territory that really. Roadies should bite the bullet and buy a pair of baggy shorts...😉
Not for me. Too much flagging . Too rough. To bad for the cleats. And this makes it hard to do strong efforts. So naaah. . I would have to go on a turbo for a hour after that. But keep winding up Nigel, just maybe he will snap one day . That will be gold
You are totally right Amy, if you don't enjoy it, don't do it. Just a second before you said it, my wife said she (you) are not enjoying the ride, and one of the reasons you ride is for stress relief and this seems to be having the opposite effect. My wife and I avoid that sort of route and if we have to ride on bumpy stuff we both start apologising to our bikes😅
No way Nigel should have taken you on that route as a beginner. Most of the sections I saw were not appropriate for a gravel bike regardless of rider experience.
That's just a hard walk in cycling shoes with a bike on your shoulder. Go and ride e.g. Tissington Trail or look around for better rides. Nigel telling you sht is akin to what people used to tell my wife about saddles and riding. Follow my line and you'll be ok. Good to know the old school bllx hasn't changed.
He is a complete prat that Nige! 🤔
Just invest in tyre levers and keep in saddle bag very honest and it was advanced gravel,/mountain bike, not a route for a beginner
My wife suggests you need an empathy lady friend, and start on Gravel proper, if there is any in the UK.
That was really cross country riding. Gravel riding implies horse paths/fire roads etc. I also find its' where eMTB's make a lot of sense. I've done paths like that on a regular MTB and on uphills because of the grass/rocks you're full gas (Z4-5) just to stay on the bike. With an eMTB it takes the edge off so you can actually enjoy an endurance ride. The fatter tyres and bigger disc breaks/suspension helps too over a regular MTB.
You should come and ride some proper gravel roads here in Scotland. I agree with others that looked more like MBT and I never need to hike a bike on a gravel ride. You were absolutely right to call it a day when you weren't happy but don't give up entirely on gravel. There are much nicer routes that are easier to start with. You are amazing Amy and that you for sharing your fears. It's not an easy thing to do but we all feel the same at some point. Loving your videos - keep on finding what you enjoy x
Seriously - be careful with your ankle - give it time to heal properly.
I damaged my achilles playing cricket and continue to play with it strapped up and through the pain because I loved playing cricket so much. Then one day it snapped.
That meant no cricket for months and it was never the same again and eventually I had to give up the love of my life because I was playing constantly in pain.
Agreed we do try and tell her but she will not listen!
Like many have pointed out in the comments - that was not a gravel ride!! I live near the New Forest and you would love it. Proper gravel (fire road) tracks. No huge boulders which even MTBs might struggle with. It is so much fun - and you would be yippee-ing all the way!
Well done you for going along - but your team mates must have known that was not gravel and for you as a newbie on gravel it was ridiculous for them to suggest it was. I have never seen anyone carrying their bike like you guys had to on gravel. And all that grass - trying to get across cattle fields! What was that?! Not gravel!
It did look a thoroughly awful ride and I think it would have stressed those of us who are more accustomed to gravel.
Definitely don't give up yet though. Tubeless and low inflation is definitely the way to go and far more comfy if you are on gravel and not a mountain!
If you get the chance to ride a Glorious Gravel event, they are very well organised, very well supported events with great food and mechanical support and you would be amazed to see it is nothing like your ride. It will be proper gravel 🙂 Maybe check some out on YT and you'll see what they're about.
Dear Kyle - he is such a great guy. You two are so good together! Looking forward to the next adventures.
I would refer you to the Rough Stuff Fellowship for off road riding. 🤔😏🤦♂️
Ohh thank you i'll check those out :D Kyle is a hero!
The issue with UK gravel rides is they are more MTB routes, you need to have a ride on a 29er hardtail mountain bike. Going downhill without front suspension and wide handle bars.
I have been riding MTB's for years, for fun and racing Enduro/Cross Country.
I then bought a CX bike and going downhill on drop bars is a nightmare.
And your right, if you don't enjoy it, don't do it.
That was ridiculous, way too dangerous for a beginner and just not worth the risk. Stick to what you’re good at; not many men can ride 395 miles in 24 hours. And you have a perfect physique for road riding, smooth and stylish. What you did was a sign of strength to follow your gut feeling and do the right thing and not be swayed by the influence of others.
I wouldn’t bother riding with Nigel in the future. For a first timer that route was looked very difficult. Gravel may be the ‘in’ thing atm, but doesn’t mean you have to do it. Stick to the road if that makes you happy. If you leg is still sore then rest it, if you keep riding it is only going to make it worse in the longer run.
If I were her I would ride with that Nigel fella, only take him on a very hilly road ride and film him crying and begging for mercy. 👍
One piece of advice I would give you to enjoy the descents more would be to ride in the drops as it gives you a lot more control, just be sure your levers are at the right reach so you can cover them if needed. As for the ascent, it would have been tough on an eMTB, let alone a gravel bike.
Kyle should join the RAC. Rescuing Amy Cycling! 😁
😂
As someone who started on a mountain bikes and have competed, in cross country but also road ride now. Gravel bikes really are not great off road and don’t instil confidence, especially to a new comer, to off road! Anyone that gives any negative feedback to a newcomer (to gravel)) really is a pri#k!! Amy borrow a light hard tail MTB and have blast on an easy route to build up your confidence. It does come.
Kyle is the best-he is a hero. But please don't be too proud to add tire levers to your tool kit. I have never understood why some riders shame others for using such a helpful tool.
That's not gravel. Our MTB trails are less gnarly than that. What the heck are you guys even doing? Nobody scouts out these routes before the whole club goes hike-a-bike? edit: Also, Amy, FFS get to a bike fitter who has a quick-change seatpost thingy and tons of saddles so you can get off that PBP seat and onto something more agreeable. edit 2: Put 2 tire levers in your saddle bag. it's super hard to unseat the bead on wide tires but you can work it out with a lever about 100x easier than by hand. Use one to pry and the other to get under the bead, and the rest of the tire goes nice and easy from there.
You could well be fatigued after PBP! I get weepy when I’m really tired too. And I’m rubbish at gravel as well, in fact, I just don’t like it much! Give tubeless a try as well. Punctures very, very rare, and when you do get one it’s often fixable with a plug. I haven’t taken a tyre off at the side of the road for 2 years.
I ride a lot of gravel but that was experienced MTB rider territory. I would have bailed out long before you did, and I’m not a failure. It would have helped if Nigel had recognised the difference between reluctance and fear. Don’t let it put you off as there are some great tracks and trails that are pure joy to ride.
That was not a gravel ride in parts
No shame Amy! As other viewers have noted, that ride was as much MTB as gravel. If you do go out again on similar terrain with the same bike and tires take special care to adjust the tire pressure as low as safely possible for added comfort on the bumpy bits. Hope your ankle is feeling better!
The fatigue seems to be kicking in, look after yourself. And no one needs Nigel's jokey bullying; stopped watching as soon as he started talking.
Nigel is not a friend ... I noticed this in your earlier videos .... he's a friend you could do without !
A lot depends.
You need to know a person.
As an outsider it is difficult to understand northern banter and humour and this sort of thing is often done in a light hearted way.
Nigel is a character - obviously not your cup of tea and that's ok - but I wouldn't class that as bullying - it's just his way laced with sarcasm.
I have noticed in a few video's he does talk down to Amy. It's like he thinking I've been cycling like this for years and you haven't so do it my way or its wrong . For me personally I have no time for people like that rather cycle on my own .
@@Stevenv74 I have come across people with a similar nature in life. They mean no harm by it - it's just a little gentle ribbing but his intentions are pure.
It is clear to see in the video where he teaches Amy about the different bike components.
I bet you a pound to a penny that if you were in trouble he'd be there in a flash.
That isn't gravel at all, vast majority was MTB. Get yourself to Galloway for some proper gravel.
Terrible route planned by the team there for a gravel ride
Sorry but that Nigel is a bully, typical group of men cyclists, you are strong and certainly not pathetic.
I agree with you. A group of bullies are not good riding companions!
Amy, that’s a tough course for a beginner to gravel or MTB, we’re local to you and would love to help you get your confidence up on some of our routes!!!
Love seeing this. I hope you're able to connect with Amy & Kyle to show them some better routes in your area.
I’ve done part of that route on my mountain bike , full suspension and was rough enough , it’s not a gravel route ! … so don’t give up on gravel riding .. there are much better tracks in Peak District for gravel riding which I go on
Thank you!
PBP, Audax question please.
Do the two of you set up your tires tubeless or with tubes, and also how do most riders set up their tires?
On the one hand tubeless seems popular now and may prevent some flats, but as soon as there is a major flat, it seems it would be a pain and one would be switching to a tube anyway.
I’m truly enjoying your videos, am glad I found your channel, and told one of my riding friends today to check out your channel.
Best and thanks!
Ahh thank you do much, glad you like the channel! We went tubes for PBP, there was a mixture of both but we felt safer knowing we could fix a puncture with tubes! I think there's pros and cons of both, I am tempted by tubeless!
As a ride leader, Nige needs a fews pointers...
This is how to destroy a good road bike gravel sucks.
Amy if you don't like it, don't do it. It's ok. I wouldn't enjoy that nonsense either.
Get a proper mountain bike and enjoy these “gravel” rides lol. Your friends set you up cuz that was not gravel. Not even close
Pure Gent Kyle, to the rescue.👏👏 Well done, great effort Amy. Keep going, more you do gravel/mtb the more confident you'll be.👍
You ought to the High Peak Trail, then down Tissington, on to the Manifold Trail and join up to the Monsal Trail. If you park up in Matlock you can head up to the High Peak Trail via the Cromford Canal. Predominately gravel; none of that grassy nonsense. It's a great circular route you can do with Kylie, its an introductory route to the world of gravel in your neck of the woods; you'll love it. Did this myself with a friend in April.
Ohhh thank you! Think I need to go on your strava and pinch the route! I've ridden on the Monsal trail when I first started with my Dad would love to ride there again!
5 letters:- XC MTB
Interesting as that ‘gravel’ route was a lot more like the single-track sections of some gravel races I have done.
Super challenging and scary, but if all gravel was like that I’d be doing way more road than gravel.
And as others have pointed out, the group you were riding with were not really supportive which is the exact opposite of any gravel riding people I have encountered.
The biggest allure to gravel riding has been the openness and supportiveness of the people I meet.
A gravel ride is on surfaces like a disused railway line or similar, your ride was a mountain bike ride! I think you are too harsh on yourself. 💪
Derbyshire has the roughest gravel routes on Komoot that I have so far experienced. On one ride the dirt road suddenly was totally washed out (eroded) with random 50cm deep trenches in it (I walked that on the side of the "road" for hundreds of meters). SInce then I'm very carefully checking on google satellite pics where the komoot route takes me...
For what it's worth, the way you feel on gravel is the same way I feel on the road.
Btw, that looked a lot more like a cross-country ride than a gravel ride.
I did lots of mountainbiking in the 90s when I was in my 30s and that sort of terrain would have been physically challenging on 2" tyres and a suspension fork. Personally I think riding that on a gravel bike (road bike with fat tyres) is insane. You are not a failure - you are awe inspiring. Your personal journey and your recent PBP are testimony to this. Also a huge shout out to Kyle - you two demonstrate what marriage is all about (I speak from 34 years of wonderful marriage). Also shocked/surprised that no one stopped to offer you assistance. I never ride or drive past someone stopped at the alone roadside without asking if they need help.
Thank you so much! Yes Kyle really is a good one!!
That was deffo more than just a gravel ride!
Hey Amy, first of all, well done for giving that a go and that looked tough! Second , have you heard of the “tyre glider”? This is a fantastic tool for people of all abilities and so easy to use! I highly recommend you check it out and purchase one! It works amazingly well on tight tyres on tight rims and doesn’t require brute strength. Anyway hope this helps, keep up the great videos and amazing rides 😊
I normally cry when I see a hill. 😂😀
Thats not gravel Amy...thats off road...big time.
👍👍👍👍 When riding down technical hills put your hands on the drops, weight on your pedals, and slide back on your saddle or even behind it.
This. Or actually out of the saddle and use arms almost as shock absorbers. Although really shouldn't need 2 thst often if it's pure gravel. Occasionally yes but not like on that route
Well done Amy....but you can keep Gravel!!....I'm sticking to the road!!!
That’s mountain bike ride 😮.. not gravel Amy .. your response was 💯 .. correct 👍.. Nigel was being too hard !! Totally 💯.. Kyle LEGEND!!! You have a good seed with him Amy .. crying is healthy .. and listen to your fears and anxiety… acknowledging them is healthy .. if you feel unsafe down hills .. listen to yourself .. and if something isn’t for you and you tried .. that’s cool 😎 too 🍎 .. great content showing the ups and downs on the bike 🚴.. glad you ended on a positive.. cheers 🥰👏👏🥰
I love your honesty and willingness to try something new. I would not have wanted to do that ride either. You absolutely made the right decision and there’s no reason to feel bad. Great job!
Okay gravel is off my do list. Don't see the point. Tense, white knuckle riding while getting shaken to bits is too much for my old bones. ❤
Amy. You've got lots of people all pushing you along. Keep positive. We love you to bits. On the roads and Hills you fly like a bird. So, please don't worry. Well done fixing the tyre. All good experiences for you.
6:37 he’s such a supportive geezer that Nigel😅 big hugs to Kyle!! ❤
With friends like him, you don’t need enemies
Failure is a part of learning, as we all know. Good to see you break down but pick yourself back up. Kyle got himself a strong woman. 👌
And also, i believe crying is one the healthiest ways to release emotions that bothers you.
Wish I'd cry more often.
You're pretty brave running that without gloves.
I'd be on my 2.1 tyres for the cush.
That did not look fun to me. Maybe a proper mountain bike would make it a little more pleasant of a ride.
Hello Amy,
Maybe little and often is the way to go with the gravel riding. See you next time
Take care
Paul,,
That's the key when you said - I ride to enjoy it. Good call