Description
Ride Overview
A challenging late season ride that packs in plenty of ups and downs as we ride through the South Downs National Park. Whilst the featured climbs over the South Downs via Butser Hill, Harting Down and Duncton Down may be the more obvious route highlights, the challenging nature of this ride comes from the fact that it’s rarely flat with the bigger hills linked by sections of shorter, punchier ups and downs the whole way round. Away from the climbs, there are plenty of stunning views from the top of the South Downs ridge and some grin inducing downhills along the way.
Long Route: 148km, 1979m
Medium Route: 113km, 1489m
Key Climbs:
Butser Hill – 2.4km, 4.9% average gradient
South Harting – 2.2km, 2.7%
Countdown to October 9th
Ride Highlights
North Downs National Park: A cyclists playground with plenty of climbs to test the legs and descents to put a smile on your face.
Butser Hill: The highest point on the South Downs and climbed via it’s steepest approach up Harvesting Lane.
Harting Down: With views over the Weald to the north and across to the English Channel to the south.
The Route
South Downs Beast: October 9th 2021
Pick between the 148km long route or 113km medium route in the stunning South Downs. The whole ride is rolling with a number of longer climbs making both routes a challenging but very rewarding late season sportive.
Start Time: From 8.30am
Finish Time: Ride Village closes at 5.30pm
Long Route Cut Off: Must be through route split (50km) by 12pm
Start / Finish Location: Liphook
Long Route
Long Route: 148km, 1979m
Starting from Liphook, there’s a brief chance to warm up on some easier terrain, before we head for the hills to take on some of the challenging climbs the South Downs is renowned for.
At just under half distance, Butser Hill takes you high up onto the South Down ridge on a climb that starts easily but gets steeper and steeper the further up you ride, with sections over 12% waiting for you before you can admire the views from the top.
From this high point, we’re losing height over the next few miles but the climbing is far from over. We’ll twice head back over the South Downs ridge; first via Harting Down and then Duncton Down, before starting to head for home.
Medium Route
Medium Route: 113km, 1489m
Taking in a lot of the main climbs of the long route, the 35km shorter medium route cuts out Butser Hill but packs in plenty of other tough stuff in the 113km loop.
Whilst the featured climbs over the South Downs may be the more obvious highlights, the challenging nature of this ride comes from the fact that it’s rarely flat with the bigger hills linked by sections of shorter, punchier ups and downs the whole way round. A challenging season ender.
FAQs
Is the route marked?
Yes, the route is fully marked. We also suggest bringing a bike GPS to follow as well, we will send you a GPX file with the route one week before the ride.
How do I find out my start time?
Riders start in groups of maximum 6 at a time. We will send you an email after you have booked to choose your start time between 8am and 10am, if you are riding with a friend you can choose to start with them.
Where is the start / finish?
The ride starts and finishes in Liphook. There is free parking onsite as well as a toilets & refreshments.
What happens if I have a mechanical / accident?
It is important you prepare properly ensuring your bike is in good condition & physically ready for the challenge. If you have an accident or mechanical, we have support at the feeds and sweep van at the back.
What shall I pack with me for the ride?
You need to have two water bottle, basic kit to repair punctures, inner tubes & riding with a helmet is compulsory. Our feed stops have water, cake, fruit & bars.
Do I get a medal at the finish?
Yes, when you finish the ride you will go through the finish line and get your hard earned UK’s Hardest Hundred medal.
