Something for the family

The London Freewheel returns for its second year this Sunday, with more than 50,000 riders expected to grace the traffic-free streets of London. It’s quite something to behold, and the only chance to see a vehicle-free capital (until next year). You cover more tourist spots than you can shake a stick at, and suddenly realise London isn’t so big after all. If only it could be like this the other 51 Sundays a year.

London Freewheel
Photo shows the 2007 Freewheel

The route’s changed slightly for 2008, as has the sponsor. Last year’s sponsor was Hovis and free sandwiches were dished out, but this year Sky have the accolades, so bring some fodder. Watch out for mbr staff on the route too, dressed as Uzbekistani table tennis pros and pedalling recumbents…

www.london.gov.uk/freewheel/

Something to ride

Or if an urban hack is too tame for you, the Grizedale Mountain Bike Challenge (GMBC) takes place on Sunday, one of the longest running Mountain Bike Endurance Events in Northern England, say organisers. The loop is 40 miles long this year to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of sponsor North Face and cuts through some pretty decent singletrack, some of which is only open to the public through the GMBC.

There are still limited day entries available, download the entry form online at www.gmbc.co.uk

Something to watch

The British National Track Championships finish up this weekend at the Manchester Velodrome, our National Cycling Centre. No need to wait until London 2012 to witness the sort of track excitement we saw in Beijing then. Go to www.manchestervelodrome.com for details.