scotland to liverpool

[razaefc]

hello everyone,only just joined.i couldnt see anywhere were i could ask about training,so ill start here and may be i can be directed.
me and two mates are looking to attempt to ride from scotland to liverpool sometime in the summer,neither of us have any real cycling experience and dont know where to start in terms of training,any help would be most grateful.Also i will be looking to buy a new bike for this charity bike ride,so any recommendations would also be grateful.

 

[400bhp]

I rode from Edinburgh to Manc last year, using back roads.

I can post up the route maps if you're interested.

 

[razaefc]

yes mate that would be spot on thanks allot.How did you go about your training?how did you find it,time etc,thanks

 

[400bhp]

1. Edinburgh to Innerleithen

http://www.bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=259014

2. Innerleithen to Burton in Kendal

http://www.bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=270555

3. Burton to Manchester

http://www.bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=259177

 

[razaefc]

thanks.

 

[400bhp]

I can go into more detail if required, but a couple of thoughts.

I didn't do any specific training. I had a meeting on a Friday in Edinburgh and thought feck it I'll ride back. Set off on Friday evening, was back for Sunday lunch.

I didn't do the route 3. posted above as I was goosed by the time I got to Burton and took the A6 instead.

The route was pretty much excellent all the way, however it is very undulating and if I was to do it again over the same time frame I would look to take a couple more main roads.

 

[razaefc]

i couldnt help but laugh reading that,you didnt do any training?hats off to you!
i take it you ride allot though?
this is sounding easier than i thought although im not underestimating it!

 

[Grizzly]

I've got a mate who cycles from Glasgow to Gloucester about once a year. From Glasgow he uses the old A74 to Carlisle and then I think he goes via Kendal, at which point the route supplied by 400bhp may be useful. As for the training he cycles everyday and rarely uses a car, he'll often do a 50 to 80 mile route into work; yes he is mental! I think the general rule is find your current limit then look to add 10% each week. So, if you can do 20 miles this week then go for 22 the next, and then 24 to 25 the next, and keep building. Personally I do what feels right, if I can do 20 this week and then feel that I can do 30 the next then I do, but the next week again I may only do 25. I feel that this takes into account how tired I feel, or if I feel unwell.

Good Luck