Can you advise on the NCN and tandeming

[David Head]

Hi all ... just joined to try and get advice planning a group ride for tandems with visually impaired riders. My big question is over the average speed we will achieve with twenty riders (10 tandems). For example, just mapped out Coventry - Derby using the NCN mapping a 50 mile trip and any comments on feasibility and timings would be very much appreciated. Route is at this link, day 1 of a six day trip:
http://www.sustrans.org.uk/map#user...0CF6C4D,438586.1427402005,302128.8913894115,1

 

[Flying Dodo]

Although most of that route is on quiet roads and so should be fine, I note the section skirting around the north of Nuneaton is a rough unmade cycle path, so warn them to expect bumps.

I'd also plot the route out on either the bikehike or bikeroutetoaster websites, so that you get an idea of how hilly it is.

As to how long it would take, that depends upon the overall ability of the riders, but I'd work on a moving average of 10-12 mph, and build in time for stops.

 

[robgul]

As suggested - plot it on a system that lets you see the profile - and also to download a .gpx file that can then be used in loads of varieties of mapping software .. and of course load it to a GPS gadget. The Sustrans mapping (and printing) is pretty crude at best ... hence the suggestion - it would also let you print your own maps for on-the-ride use from most of the systems.

To add to the question about suitability of the NCN for tandems I would suggest that if it's on road you'll be fine and about 10-11mph would be achievable as an average - if it's off-road/traffic-free then you are at risk of poor surfaces and loads of gates and barriers ... especially difficult with tandems, even more of a challenge with the need to take account of assisting visually impaired stokers - with impact on the time dropping you well below 10mph.

Rob

PS : I think I know you, the face is familiar but can't remember who/how/when?

 

[ufkacbln]

There is a controversy with Sustrans and Barriers. Often local Councils insist on anti-motorcycle barriers on off road stretches. These can be difficult to access for tandems, especially if you have visually impaired riders.

Some have gates that can be opened with an access key that can simplify the process

 

[David Head]

Rob

PS : I think I know you, the face is familiar but can't remember who/how/when?
robgul, Today at 16:40

ruralent!uk 2003 - 2007 perhaps? Simon Berry a link? I live in Rugby, Warwickshire?

 

[AKA Bob]

I always work on 1hr for each ten miles of distance to travel with an extra hour built in for rest stops and technicals.

If you arrive early then it allows more time to be social before heading home.

 

[Tim Hall]

Don't forget that if you're on a shared use path, as bits of the NCN are, you'll be sharing it (obviously) with slower, more vulnerable users. And dogs. This may affect your speed.

 

[robgul]

ruralent!uk 2003 - 2007 perhaps? Simon Berry a link? I live in Rugby, Warwickshire?

That's the one .... I met you with Simon Berry, who has a journal in my www.cycle-endtoend.org.uk website with his Moulton E2E. Interestingly he tried the E2E using Sustrans routes the year after his Moulton ride and abandoned the plan at about one-third distance because he got so far behind schedule with : poor surfaces, gates & barriers, tortuous routes ... get the picture for your plans .... ?

If you want to e-mail* me at the cycle-endtoend.org.uk site I may be able to offer some help with routes etc ... guessing that if the example is Day 1 of a 6 day ride where you are headed.

Rob

* as a newbie here I don't think you're on the PM system yet

 

[David Head]

Thanks everyone, this has already been informative and re-assuring.

For those interested the whole route is in six sections and I am planning to recce it solo before the group trip in September. Start in Coventry, end in Coventry, 356 miles.

Day 1 50.3 miles
http://www.sustrans.org.uk/map#user...0CF6C4D,438586.1427402005,302128.8913894115,1
Day 2 74.9 miles
http://www.sustrans.org.uk/map#user...66673AB57,449250.563402348,357924.211164431,1
Day 3 69.6 miles
http://www.sustrans.org.uk/map#user...DBD5B5A,428112.417139971,410097.47714973654,1
Day 4 60.3 miles
http://www.sustrans.org.uk/map#user...499E13236,406476.745162425,406252.790855397,1
Day 5 65.1 miles
http://www.sustrans.org.uk/map#user...8CC454E,387551.705277625,335310.72586025553,0
Day 6 36.0 miles
http://www.sustrans.org.uk/map#user...BA9D589,412865.767777625,288652.58501731196,1

PS will do Rob

David