afan forest help

[mikeangaroo]

i am a newcomer to mountain biking.
iv never been to afan , but seen a couple of videos on you tube . the descents look fun , but im curious about the
climbs , can someone who has been explain the climbs please .
as in how steep , what terrain , distance of the climb and how fit you need to be etc
cheers

[steve_sordy]

welcome to the forum mikeangeroo.

I also have never been to Afan, but I would not worry about the climbs. Pushing up is not a badge of shame. But the descents may be something to worry about if you are unskilled and unfit. General advice would be to try the easier trails first, go on a training course, build your skills, go with someone who knows the trails you are about to ride. If you are nervous get off and go take a look before you ride the obstacle that concerns you. We were all beginners once and we are all still learning.

Someone who knows Afan will be along before too long.

[DaMilkyBarKid]

Welcome to the forum (WTTF).

The climbs at Afan are more technical than particularly difficult, but they are rather long!! Very few people end up walking them, just take plenty of rest stops as you go up. They are some of the best climbs I've come across at trail centres as they are interesting and you get a real sense of satisfaction when you get to the top. The climb on The Wall has a fair bit of fireroad on it, whereas the climb on White's is all singletrack and at 6km long, a good test.

For fitness, if you are comfortable riding off-road for two-three hours in a day, you should be fine. Just take plenty of water and food. As Steve said, work on your fitness and skills first and you should be fine.

[mikeangaroo]

is there a one off price to pay for a day at afan ? or do you have to buy a season ticket ?

cheers

[reevil]

As I recall there's no fee, just parking.

[DaMilkyBarKid]

A few quid at both centres for parking, cheaper at Glyncorrwg. Better cafe too.