Frequently Asked Questions ......

Here are a few of the most common questions we receive every week regarding our rides. If this does not answer everything you want to know, then just get in touch.
1. I am interested in joining your group to go on some of your rides. However, at the moment I only have a hybrid bike. Would this be suitable for the kind of routes you do?

Not really. Our rides vary each week to include limited road sections and try to include as much off road as possible up to tricky drops and jumps. we strongly recommend a bike that is designed for off-road use with tyres that are suitable for such use.

2. I am just taking up mountain biking and am going at a very slow pace ...would any of your rides suit me??

Most of our rides are at a similar pace, so no particular ride is more suited to slower riders. Start with a shorter ride (Thursday's or Saturday's) or a ride around Blean Woods, where you are always close to the finish point should you need to finish early.

3. I've checked your calendar and there is no entry for the next few weeks. Does that mean you are not riding?

No. Dates are usually added at the start of each week for the weekend to come. Check back regularly, or email info@kent-trails.co.uk

4. Is the ride weather dependent?

We like to think we'll get out and ride in most conditions, but we do sometimes cut rides short if the weather, or more importantly, the trails are unsuitable. The cold never stops us!

5. What should I bring with me?

We normally stop for a snack break, so bring a bar of something to eat and plenty of water. Also bring your usual spares and trail tools you might need, such as inner tubes, patches, pump etc.

6. I haven't done any off-road riding but I am reasonably fit and would like to join you on your ride out

Great, come along and find out if it is what you are looking for.

7. I would like to know if the ride is suitable for children or if it is just for adults.

Unfortunately due to the nature of the sport, we cannot accept younger children who would struggle with the distance and terrain of the rides.

8. Do I have to wear a helmet?

Yes, please wear a helmet. We will not accept you without it

9. Do I have to join and pay for the rides, or can I just turn up?

 Just turn up and enjoy the ride.

10. I've done some mountain biking but nothing too technical, would the saturday ride be suitable?

Absolutely. Our Saturday rides are usually around Blean Woods and should be suitable for most people. The trails we use are mainly tight, twisty singletracks and wide doubletracks.

11. I would like to join your group but haven't got a bike. Do you rent mountain bikes?

No, we do not rent any bike. You will have to come with your own equipment. However, you can get one from Downland cycles in Canterbury

12. Do you always ride the same routes and are there any other bikes rides apart from the ones listed on the website?

The weekly rides are often just the start and finish points, with each trip varying week on week depending upon conditions and the decisions made by the ride leader. You're unlikely to ever do the exact same ride twice. We also have a selection of routes for you to try.

13. Who is responsible for my safety?

You Are. It is your responsibility to ride with due care at all times. It is a condition of participating in our rides that you agree to wear a safety helmet at all times while riding.

14. What happen if I cannot follow the group or have a mechanical problem?

We will show you the way but if at anytime you feel out of your depth let us know and we will offer an easy-out or alternative route. Most repairs can be dealt with at the trail side.