Bristol > 100 Mile

The 100 mile route is ideal for more experienced cyclists who want to challenge themselves over a longer distance. The route has plenty of variety and is not just climb after climb. There are several flat fast sections interspersed with some tough climbs and undulating roads. The scenery alone makes this ride worthwhile and one view in particular after climbing Cheddar Gorge and descending towards Draycott will take your breath away with views of the Somerset Levels and Glastonbury Tor.

Both routes will follow the same roads until the top of Cheddar Gorge.

We recommend that you carry two spare inner tubes, tyre levers, pump and a puncture repair kit. It is not uncommon for riders to suffer punctures during sportive events. Ideally you should also carry a lightweight folding multi tool, available through any good cycle store.

Although feed stations en route will be well stocked with energy drinks, water and food, please consider taking energy gels or food of your own and at least one water bottle on your bike.

SAFETY

If all riders follow some basic safety guidelines we can all expect an enjoyable day!

All riders must conform to the laws of the road. This means keeping to the left, allowing vehicles to pass and not riding more than two abreast unless it is safe to do so and you are not holding up traffic.

There are 4 sets of traffic lights on the 100 mile route plus a couple of pedestrian controlled crossings with lights and riders must obey the lights. Marshalls will be in attendance around the route and any rider found riding through a red traffic light will be disqualified and no time will be given for the ride. Also, all riders will have numbers displayed on their bikes and the Police will take action against anyone riding illegally if caught.

We have tried to avoid main roads wherever possible but there are several points on the route where you will need to either ride on a main road or cross it:

  • Leaving Event HQ - This will be marshall controlled
  • Bottom of Brockley Combe - Traffic light controlled and marshalls. BE PATIENT at these lights!
  • Top of Brockley Combe / Downside Road. Turn left on to A38 for 100m then turn right. Marshalls will be in attendance
  • Bottom of descent to Draycott. Crossroads - riders must go straight over. Caution!! You approach this at speed!!
  • Bottom of Harptree Hill. Crossroads - 100 mile riders need to turn left on to A368. Caution!! You approach this at speed!!
  • End of Ashley Lane. Turn right on to A38 for 100m then turn left
  • Bottom of Cleve Hill Road (Goblin Combe). Turn left on A370 for 200m Then turn right.
  • End of Horse Race Lane. Turn left on to B3128 for 400m then turn right
We would be grateful if every rider would please wear a helmet.

To avoid confusion with events taking place in and around Cheddar Gorge on the day of the event, all Black Rat signs will be white with a black arrow indicating the direction you should ride. All signs will also have the Black Rat logo on. If a sign is showing the logo upside down or round the wrong way, someone has tampered with it! All signs should show the logo the right way up.

If you encounter any Yellow signs without the Black Rat logo, they are for the events taking place in and around Cheddar Gorge and NOT for you!

A cross country run starts in Cheddar Gorge at 11am. Some riders may still be passing through the gorge at this time, so please be aware of runners!