aj's Guiding and Tuition

Bev, above Pontsticill Reservoir, 2005

Mountain Biking, I can do that!

Many people think riding a bike is easy, and in most respects it is, but riding a bike comfortably is a different matter.

As a qualified guide and cycle coach, I can help adjust your bike to fit you, tailoring the machine to suit your body and how you want to ride. I can advise on the equipment and clothing that will make a difference from not wanting to go out to not wanting the ride to end.

The Bike

You see, the bike, as you get it from the shop, is not set up for you. There are several points of adjustment you can .... erm ... adjust! The seat may be too far forward, the handlebars too far back, the brake levers angled awkwardly.

At first you may not notice this, especially if you are relatively new to riding, but after a while you might be experiencing discomfort during your ride and ache more after you stop. By altering the various contact points, (saddle, pedals, handlebars) you can 'customise' your bike without spending anything.

Clothes

The clothes you wear can also alter the whole mountain biking experience, keeping you cool when it's hot, and warm when the ice covers puddles. Shoes and pedals can help you get the most out of your muscle power, knowing how to set them up correctly can take the pain out of experimentation.

Setup

To help you get the most out of your bike and yourself, I will:

• Visit you at home, or any place close to where you want to ride.
• Help adjust the bike to your preferences and body shape.
• Suggest modifications.
• Show you all the parts on the bike and what they do.
• Teach you about using brakes and gears.
• Suggest appropriate equipment and clothing.
• Ride with you to a suitable area and show you basic skills.
• Help you build your riding abilities on suitable routes.
• Teach basic trail-side repairs.

Rules

Before you deluge me with phone calls and e-mails, there are a few things you should bear in mind:

• I won't take you out unless everyone in the group has a safe, properly adjusted helmet. 'No helmet, no ride'.
• Bring gloves.
• You'll need eye protection
• Food for a long ride
• Water for a long ride
• Spares for the bike, inner tubes, brake pads, etc.
• Bring details of all group members: d.o.b., emergency contact info, allergy/illness details.

These rules apply for both individual guiding or tuition, and group rides. I need to enforce these criteria for both your physical well-being and my peace of mind.

Deer in the snow. November 2005

Disabilities

I can use sign language and I am developing my working practices with the partially sighted.

Area Covered

I live in Maesteg and will travel anywhere within 2 hours driving, so most of South Wales and as far up as Rhayader.

Booking.

My rate is £10 an hour, 2 hours minimum. I'll ride mornings, afternoons, all day and up to 4 hours of night riding. I ride whatever the weather unless it's dangerous, i.e. Blizzard. No fee payable if I cancel due to conditions. Bookings taken via phone or e-mail

If you cancel less then 2 days before booked date, 50% of the booking fee is payable.