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The ride through the single track of Hamner Springs was excellent! And we rode a new track, Threshold.
It was a fine, sunny day in Hamner and a good number of riders turned out to tackle the pine encrusted single track that makes Hamner Springs a favourite of the CMBC. There were a few new faces (and bikes) in the group, and some of the new riders had a bit of trouble coming to terms with the hill climbs (But, I reckon you can expect that if you ride a downhill bike with 7 inch travel - UP Hill!) However, many veteran club members had turned out to say good bye to "Bigfoot"... Due to be logged the following week, Bigfoot, was a dearly loved piece of single track, famous for it's climbing switch backs and long swooping descent. Rick managed to fall off and graze his leg beautifully on his second attempt!  Shapely road riding leg in pain! After tackling the ususal suspects of Hamner: Bigfoot, Detox, Dogstream... We lunched in town before riding up Jollies Pass to tackle the new track in town - the "Threshold". Threshold
Not for the faint hearted, the "Threshold" starts with a climb that will push you to your limits: A steep climb up and over soft pines needles, following the trail of an overgrown logging road. And to really make you feel as though your working - this steep section begins after the initial energy sapping grind up Jollies Pass to the start of the track! Once on the logging road, there are two ride options for this track: About two thirds up, the climb forks - leaving the rider with the choice of riding the "Low Line" or climbing to the head of the trail and riding back down the entire length of the downhill. At the top, you would be wise to stop and catch your breath before attempting the descent, as you'll need the energy for the corners! The descent is littered with tight technical switch backs, mostly around pines trees, steep and all over loose earth and dry pine needle covered scree. There is no fast-flow to this track, as there are so many switch backs along the track: In many places you will find yourself cutting back just under your previous path and riding towards your companions as they descend. At the bottom, the track rejoins Jollies Pass, not too far from the start of the track - leaving you with the tantalising option of riding at least a couple of loops. Most enjoyed the track, though some felt the track didn't have enough flow - and with so many switchbacks it's easy to see why. |
