Hi there,

 Started riding last year, but not done any in the winter months really, starting to get out now. Mainly trails like Hamsterly Forest and Castle Eden (Wynyard Park). Nothing technical.

I've just agreed to do a 3 day ride in June with some guys I know and am looking for some training advice and tips.

This is something they do every year, and I don't want to be left behind! I believe this year they're doing the Sustrans Hadrian Cycle Way (?). The plan is to do around 50 miles a day, which to me at the moment is pretty daunting and a little scary, never having done anything like this at all before!

I have a 2007 Gary Fisher Marlin (just got it and I love it!) and I will be able to borrow a rack and some Panniers. Currently I'm about 14 stone and looking to lose more weight (lost 3 and a half stone last year!). Level of fitness not brilliant, but getting better.

So - anyone know the route? Anyone got any tips for a complete novice?

Ta. 

Firstly well done on losing 3.5 stone!

I think the most important thing is to build up slowly i.e. long slow endurance rides, start with a 2 hour ride for example and build it up over the weeks, 3, 4 hours etc...  main reason for taking it slowly/holding back is that the muscles strengthen before you tendons have adapted and I know from personal experience how tendonitis can put you out of action for six months!

Just try and ride as much as possible in the week too. Fifty miles a day may sound a lot but if you're riding all day you'll be surprised how far you travel, it's not too scary a distance TBH. 

Thanks guys. Interesting point about the tendons, something to bear in mind, thanks.

I'd already thought about the trying to get hold of the panniers early to practise with them.

When planning a trip like this is there anything not immediately obvious I should be thinking about taking? Something that you guys would find useful? Obviously things like clothes, puncture repair kits etc. 

 Thanks again