Trail riding on green lanes
Trail riding takes place on unclassified roads and byways open to all traffic with natural surfaces, often known as "green lanes ". Some of these lanes were considered too steep for a tarmac surface, whereas others were routes rarely used. The variety of green lanes in Wales make it well worth a visit!
You will encounter hills up and down, tight corners, sweeping bends, stream crossings, boulders, rocks, ruts and muddy surfaces.
Benefits of Trail Riding
Because the green lanes have unstable and slippery surfaces, your reactions improve. Throttle control is more precise, and you learn how to use the clutch to get you out of troublesome situations. Braking needs a good surface, and is not always possible, so you have to look well ahead and plan your route. There is the opportunity on some of the gravel tracks to get the rear wheel sliding - not for everyone maybe, but it does teach you a lot about bike control. As a road rider, the skills you learn from green laning can help if an unexpected situation occurs such as mud on the road, a skid or being forced off the road.
I’m an Experienced Road Rider but Never Been Off Road - What Can I Expect?
Your riding day starts with an easy forest road for a few miles which allows you to settle in and get used to the bike. The green lane route is progressive, and can be altered to suit you. As you come to each new challenge, you will be taught the techniques needed to cope with the more demanding going. If you are coming for the weekend, you will do a different route on the second day.
"Thanks very much for giving us all a great time yesterday, it was much appreciated. The terrain was great along with the scenery and the pace was just about right for us novices." John from Colwyn Bay
I’ve Already Done a Bit of Green Laning - Can You Do Anything For Me?
Some of our green lane routes include very challenging hills and rocky lanes. If you are only doing one day and are an experienced green laner or off road rider, you can request the more challenging route. You may be asked to pay a deposit of £100 which will be refunded in whole if the bike is not damaged, or in part if small parts get broken, but will be retained if parts costing more than £100 are required.
I’m Not Sure I’m Brave Enough For This!
If you are very nervous about riding on loose surfaces, we can do a day for you mainly on minor tarmac lanes with only the easiest of green lanes included. If you are coming for a weekend, you can do the lanes most people do on their first day on your second one if you wish.
"We had a great time and really enjoyed it. We felt at ease because you were friendly, welcoming and accommodating. " Martin and Anita, London
