I did this alleged cycle route in the Summer. Some very dodgy stretches, with channels and potholes where the surface has been washed away. Loose gravel, at least one big sudden drop which could have been deadly if I hadn't been paying attention. I wrote to Scarborough council about the condition of the route, apparently there is a proposal to repair and upgrade it but a local has objected. There are a few houses along the route, maybe he lives there and objects to the horror of cyclists going past his house.
One the other hand if you don't mind a bit of a challenge, fantastic views in places over the coast and out to sea; and a nice cafe at Ravenscar.
Thanks for that. Shame about the condition. I'd heard some renovation was afoot sometime back - wasn't sure what had happened. Also just found there are also some reviews on tripadvisor including "...75% good - 25% appalling and in some places unsafe for cycling even on a mountain bike. Do not use a road bike under any circumstances." Sounds like a challenge... ;)
Thanks for that. Shame about the condition. I'd heard some renovation was afoot sometime back - wasn't sure what had happened. Also just found there are also some reviews on tripadvisor including "...75% good - 25% appalling and in some places unsafe for cycling even on a mountain bike. Do not use a road bike under any circumstances." Sounds like a challenge... ;)
I rode it in August this year.
Spa Cycle Tourer. Loaded for cycle camping. 700*28 tyres.
Left Scarbados on good quality tarmac cycle path... which descended into 'cinder path', which descended in hardpacked mud path, which descended into rutted mud footpath, which descended into mud singletrack with bricks in it. Then the farm gates started. Descended might not be the accurate word - the paths climbs steadily from Scarbados to Ravenscar - when suddenly the whole grinding experience is transformed into glory by the view of Robin Hood's Bay. Which is then immediately ruined by the boulder/cobble/brick strewn mud/gravel descent.
I returned by the road because I couldn't face riding the same track twice. However - I was glad I had ridden it once. If only for the view of the bay.
Some photos from the 24 hour adventure: https://flic.kr/s/aHsmwcoavt
Sounds like a fun day out on the mountain bike...
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4838/44213977670_684717c906_z.jpg)
Left Scarbados on good quality tarmac cycle path...
I did this alleged cycle route in the Summer. Some very dodgy stretches, with channels and potholes where the surface has been washed away. Loose gravel, at least one big sudden drop which could have been deadly if I hadn't been paying attention. I wrote to Scarborough council about the condition of the route, apparently there is a proposal to repair and upgrade it but a local has objected. There are a few houses along the route, maybe he lives there and objects to the horror of cyclists going past his house.
One the other hand if you don't mind a bit of a challenge, fantastic views in places over the coast and out to sea; and a nice cafe at Ravenscar.
For audax, I see no problem with the A171 depending on timing. I found it to be an interesting ride with just enough undulation to give a balance between views, climbs and sweeping descents. All main road so no need to brake anywhere... until the last roundabout before Scarbados. The ride to Brid isn't bad either. I'd be interested in your 200 route. :)Sounds like a fun day out on the mountain bike...
Fun day out on a fast ride - but an even more fun 24 hours if you plan it with an overnight stop in Whitby or RHB. After work to teatime worked for me. :)
I did this alleged cycle route in the Summer. Some very dodgy stretches, with channels and potholes where the surface has been washed away. Loose gravel, at least one big sudden drop which could have been deadly if I hadn't been paying attention. I wrote to Scarborough council about the condition of the route, apparently there is a proposal to repair and upgrade it but a local has objected. There are a few houses along the route, maybe he lives there and objects to the horror of cyclists going past his house.
One the other hand if you don't mind a bit of a challenge, fantastic views in places over the coast and out to sea; and a nice cafe at Ravenscar.
That sounds like a lame excuse for no action. There was a proposal for Sustrans to take over the path, I think the objection was that sustrans wanted to bring the standard of the path up to something more approaching a tarmac path in finish and width - and that's where the problems started (high speed cyclists and damage to wildlife I recall were the cited things that were the problem).
The current position seems to be here:
https://www.thescarboroughnews.co.uk/news/on-the-right-track-to-restore-the-historic-railway-line-between-scarborough-and-whitby-1-9369961
I'm certainly interested in cycling it sometime and it seems to give a great alternative to the A171 etc.
Some photos from the 24 hour adventure: https://flic.kr/s/aHsmwcoavtThat looks gorgeous. The views, the tracks (apart from the bricks... ) and the whole adventure. But I have to ask, what on earth is the brown stuff in your tuck box in this photo?
Looks like he caught a Nescafe.