Winter bikes – a quandary
It is written in the annuls of history, that all cyclists should have a winter bike (Hack bike), for use when the weather is foul or the salt is covering the region.
Now there are two schools of thought on this, and it really depends on how reliable you want your bike to be:
• Use your old dependable (ish) bike, which has now been demoted due to your newer/ shinier/lighter/more expensive steed.
Advantages: You already own it, so it’s cheap. You like it, and it was perfectly fine when it was your main bike.
Disadvantages: The very reason you bought a new one! It is a bit worn, and changing gear would tax an enigma decoder! Those creaking noises don’t sound great; in fact the detached rear seat stay is not a substitute for suspension.
• Buy a new inexpensive bike, there a loads of bargains from manufacturers as we head into winter. Provided it is from a big reputable maker it will be a good investment.
Advantages: everything is new, the gears work, and the brakes have new pads! The tyres tubes etc are all new. All the big manufacturers Specialized/TREK/Giant/Merida all make solid £300 bikes; they would not sell them if they did not work! The frames usually grace all their bikes up to £600. If the price is right, they will cost less than a new drive-train on your old bike, so wearing them out over the winter is not a bike concern
Disadvantages: Initial outlay, the gears don’t say XT on them!!
In our (the Mikes Bikes) view, an inexpensive bike from a quality manufacturer will provide the best trouble free and reliable transport. With this in mind we at Mikes Bikes set ourselves the following brief:
“Find a 2011 bike from a major bike company, which retails at £3-400, and negotiate and end of season deal, which provides our loyal customers with a bargain at just over £200.”
The best way to achieve this was to buy in bulk, which we did, & we are now in a position to offer a Merida Matts 10-V at £200 (original RRP £320) for a limited period. This bike is made by the world’s largest bike co, and shares its frame with a full range of bikes, which are similar to the revered Specialized Hardrock (Merida manufacture for Specialized). This bike has a full Shimano Altus gearset, Suntour XCT fork, V –brakes and decent Tyres/wheels. This is a real bike, not a BSO (Bicycle shaped object) from a supermarket, everything works and we build it for you!
Night Riding Continued
Cairngorm CC is continuing into the winter, with 15 riders out for our Thursday night ride, despite it being:
a. Dark
b. Cold
c. Winter
After last weeks single-track mud fest (courtesy of Brian), around Boat of Garten, and as a response to an expletive laden complaint from our esteemed chairman (Ian), this weeks ride returned to the wide, smooth trails of Rothiemurchus and Glenmore. Ian of course was absent! The downside is every hill was an excuse for Hamish/ Mike/Andy/Brian to make each other sick! In particular Hamish, who has beaten Mike on a bike and a running sprint this week (not that we are counting).
A range of bikes arrived last night from cross bikes (three) to a fancy pants full suss (Merida 96-Andy) and old winter hacks, and the bunch stayed together without mishap, although Nethy folks seem to have issue with pumping up tyres Gordon, Malcolm and his Geordie friends all used soft tyres as an excuse for some RnR during the ride!
It was great to see the Rothiemurchus estate bike (a Merida Matts 40-d, in fetching estate livery) out, the bike also came with a free rider Julian! Julian borrowed Mikes Bike demo Sigma Karma Pro (£140) light, and declared it fantastic. All riders came with suitable lighting, a necessity until you meet Callum Irvine going the other way, with no apparent light source, there is a family resemblance to a bat! Mike did try his best to ride into him.
Biggest thrill of the night came when Hamish descended to Loch Morlich on his cross bike, yes, its true the cantilever brakes and narrow tyres make for some sphincter clenching moments! Who needs black diamond downhill runs, when a cross bike on Land Rover tracks (“double track” if you are an American hire customer) can provide the thrills. Mike has recently changed his brakes to XLC mini V-brakes (£32 a set), to test them, the upsides are: no brake judder, 50% more power. The Downsides: the shock of the cross bike actually slowing! And the pads running close to rims. His verdict “they are miles better”.
Of course the big news this week, and it should make the Strathy, Andy Hyslop rode the staircase at Subway, in Aviemore, congratulations from all at Mikes Bikes!
Demo Bikes
The shop has now built up the 29er demo fleet and they are ready to test, this includes the showstopper a Specialized Epic FSR Carbon (£3200), Mike is determined to make it fit him!!! Lets us know if you want to try them, dry days preferred.
The Blog site for things to do and places to stay Aviemore. This is a community business blog between G2 Outdoor, Cairngorm Hotel, Mikes Bikes, Pine Bank Chalets, Cairngorm Sleddog Centre Ski-ing Doo, Backcountry Survival, Old Bridge Inn, Mountain Spirit, and Aviemore Bunkhouse
Saturday 29 October 2011
Tuesday 27 September 2011
The G2 Outdoor mighty Ski Mountaineering and Ski School getting ready
Well it's that time of year again folks when our minds wander to 5 foot of fresh powder, blue skies, new skis and endless free beer.........................ahhhhhhhh skiing in Scotland! Ok maybe it's not quite like that in Scotland but we get close sometimes apart from the free beer.
We are currently working out our ski mountaineering dates and prices for ski mountaineering and ski and snowboard stuff so if you are keen to learn and move on then give us a call on 01479 811008 or contact us via email on info@g2outdoor.co.uk
Or visit our dedicated ski school webpage
http://www.g2outdoor.co.uk/winter-activities/g2-ski-school
Or visit our dedicated Ski mountaineering page
http://www.g2outdoor.co.uk/winter-activities/ski-touring-and-mountaineering
We are currently working out our ski mountaineering dates and prices for ski mountaineering and ski and snowboard stuff so if you are keen to learn and move on then give us a call on 01479 811008 or contact us via email on info@g2outdoor.co.uk
Or visit our dedicated ski school webpage
http://www.g2outdoor.co.uk/winter-activities/g2-ski-school
Or visit our dedicated Ski mountaineering page
http://www.g2outdoor.co.uk/winter-activities/ski-touring-and-mountaineering
Wednesday 7 September 2011
Thought about offering Bushcraft and Survival courses at your outdoor centre or as part of your sessions? We have just finished training up Llain Outdoor Activity centres staff to deliver half and full day bushcraft courses.
Covering the basics of Fire, Shelter, Water and Wild foods with some sharp edged tool training as well as looking for animal signs.
Wednesday 31 August 2011
29ers the myth exploded!!!!
Its arrived, Mikes 29er! after nervously selling his Merida Ninety - Six, full suspension carbon dream machine, Mike has just built his Merida 29er, which retails around £1500 with full XT, Rockshox recon (Air), and FSA kit. Immediately, it was taken for a test ride with Hamish, Callum and Andy! So, what you want to know is, what is all the fuss about?
Well here are Mikes brief comments:
1. Its very smooth (long wheelbase, larger wheels, low centre of gravity.)
2. It rolls over bumps rather than the "choppy" feel you get with 26" wheels.
3. Aside from the odd bump it rode over single track/rocks as well as his beloved Ninety-Six full suss.
4. Its fast, almost road bike in feel on land rover tracks, the "normal" gearing ensures you dont spin out on road/smooth tracks.
5. It grips really well on steep ascents (more surface contact.)
Is it better than a "26"er? Oh yes, and it looks good, feels more substantial, you feel more at one with the bike, rather riding on top of it!
Mike is so convinced that he is organising a number of Specialized 29er demos for the coming year, including the awesome Specialized Epic (full carbon 29er), which won the World cup at Dalby this year. His own bike is also available to try (if you are tall enough!). There only seem to be benefits to 29" wheels, the negative comments made by some people regarding handling tight bends, failed to materialize, the bike (and rider?!!) handled all the burnside trails and Badaguish without a murmer.
Back on the Road, Hamish organised a Kincraig loop TT, for the cycling club, with 20 participants (willing or accidental), on a warm sunny evening it was a great success, with some very serious competitors who sported TT bars and even oversocks! The top 3: 1st Charles Fletcher 34.53 (he was the oversock offender!), Mike 36.40 (who hates TT events, and shuns TT bars, its an age thing!) & Rob 37.46 (I never celebrate when I do well!) - lead a very competative field.
It should be noted that Julia did offer her dad a wheel when she passed him, but he could not keep up! and the battle of the night was between Julia and Elena who both showed the old men how to ride! If you want to witness the event Andy Hislop made a film with much heavy breathing (there a link on this webpage).
Finally, to the 10 riders glued to mikes back wheel on the "individual" mile at Loch Morlich, THANKS!
Well here are Mikes brief comments:
1. Its very smooth (long wheelbase, larger wheels, low centre of gravity.)
2. It rolls over bumps rather than the "choppy" feel you get with 26" wheels.
3. Aside from the odd bump it rode over single track/rocks as well as his beloved Ninety-Six full suss.
4. Its fast, almost road bike in feel on land rover tracks, the "normal" gearing ensures you dont spin out on road/smooth tracks.
5. It grips really well on steep ascents (more surface contact.)
Is it better than a "26"er? Oh yes, and it looks good, feels more substantial, you feel more at one with the bike, rather riding on top of it!
Mike is so convinced that he is organising a number of Specialized 29er demos for the coming year, including the awesome Specialized Epic (full carbon 29er), which won the World cup at Dalby this year. His own bike is also available to try (if you are tall enough!). There only seem to be benefits to 29" wheels, the negative comments made by some people regarding handling tight bends, failed to materialize, the bike (and rider?!!) handled all the burnside trails and Badaguish without a murmer.
Back on the Road, Hamish organised a Kincraig loop TT, for the cycling club, with 20 participants (willing or accidental), on a warm sunny evening it was a great success, with some very serious competitors who sported TT bars and even oversocks! The top 3: 1st Charles Fletcher 34.53 (he was the oversock offender!), Mike 36.40 (who hates TT events, and shuns TT bars, its an age thing!) & Rob 37.46 (I never celebrate when I do well!) - lead a very competative field.
It should be noted that Julia did offer her dad a wheel when she passed him, but he could not keep up! and the battle of the night was between Julia and Elena who both showed the old men how to ride! If you want to witness the event Andy Hislop made a film with much heavy breathing (there a link on this webpage).
Finally, to the 10 riders glued to mikes back wheel on the "individual" mile at Loch Morlich, THANKS!
Monday 29 August 2011
Canyoning must be the best Outdoor Activity ever!
Canyoning is Awesome
At G2 we reckon that Canyoning is the best outdoor activity you can do, some people mistake canyoning by calling it gorge walking but in reality they are different beast's, both jump into pools and have slides and that's where gorge walking ends, canyoning has the added extra of abseiling, bigger jumps and usually mega places to be, don't be fooled by those that call it canyoning and take you gorge walking!!
So if you fancy some serious hard core activities in the outdoors then give G2 Outdoor a call on 01479 811008 or visit our dedicated webpages:-
Laggan and Bruar standard:-
http://www.g2outdoor.co.uk/summer-activities/canyoning/laggan-and-bruar-standard-trips
Upper Bruar:-
http://www.g2outdoor.co.uk/summer-activities/canyoning/upper-bruar
The Mighty Dundonnell:-
http://www.g2outdoor.co.uk/summer-activities/canyoning/dundonnell-canyon
At G2 we reckon that Canyoning is the best outdoor activity you can do, some people mistake canyoning by calling it gorge walking but in reality they are different beast's, both jump into pools and have slides and that's where gorge walking ends, canyoning has the added extra of abseiling, bigger jumps and usually mega places to be, don't be fooled by those that call it canyoning and take you gorge walking!!
Laggan and Bruar standard:-
http://www.g2outdoor.co.uk/summer-activities/canyoning/laggan-and-bruar-standard-trips
Upper Bruar:-
http://www.g2outdoor.co.uk/summer-activities/canyoning/upper-bruar
The Mighty Dundonnell:-
http://www.g2outdoor.co.uk/summer-activities/canyoning/dundonnell-canyon
Friday 19 August 2011
Saracen Zen - The Art of Mountain Bike Maintenance
Saracen Zen 1, spare tube karma, electric bikes, Raleigh Leeds Tour, Panasonic Ebike, Ridley Bargains, Dawes Tracker v Islabikes Beinn, DMR, Uvex
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As promised in the last blog, we have Cal's review of his latest bike, the Saracen Zen 1. Unfortunately, we don't have Sal's review of the Zen because she has been too busy being in Spain, doing her English homework and going out for dinner. Whilst being quite happy to accede to the maxim "what happens in Sitges, stays in Sitges" and having no interest in English homework, I was a little surprised that an offer to publish a review of the dinner date didn't meet with a little more enthusiaism So, here is Cal's first hand account of the Zen...
" I've been riding the Saracen Zen 1 for a little over two weeks now. I love it! Most of my riding has been on the High Burnside trails but I have also managed a day at Laggan Wolftrax. It is so fun! The Zen climbs well and descends even better. The RockShox Tora forks, powerful Shimano hydraulic brakes, SLX gears and a lightweight trail frame combine to make this a brilliant hardtail. Due to our fantastic Scottish summer, I have only managed to use it in the wet but Schwalbe's 'Nobby Nic' tyres kept me glued to the track. If you are looking for a fun hardtail that can bomb down hills (but still can be ridden back up them!) look at the Saracen Zen range - you won't be disappointed "
Continuing the theme of Eastern mystical philosophies, I benefitted from a little bit of Karma last week. Riding through Drumlanrig Castle in the rain I suffered a rear wheel puncture. The Bedman had assured me that he was carrying a spare tube and true to his word produced it for me. It looked like it had last seen service in another century and even the patches were older than my children. If it had been a mattress, it would have had a health warning. Unsurprisingly, it would not inflate. At this point, we were passed by half a dozen end to end riders closely followed by their support vehicle. Out popped a mechanic with a new tube and a track pump. Problem solved! I didn't feel too bad about not being able to pay him for it - a few of my spare tubes have found their way on to other bikes in previous good Samaritan episodes. If you want to prepare to put your own account into Karmic Kredit (or just want to avoid relying on people who ride £3.5k road bikes on patched tubes), check out our range of inner tubes. You never know when it will come in handy!
There has been rapid growth in the purchase of electric bikes in Holland in the past three years - recent purchases in Aviemore suggest that Scots might be catching up on the trend. There has never been a better time to buy an electrically assisted bicycle. The recent rise in the price of petrol has been accompanied by advances in design and development that make an electric bike a very real alternative. The pick of the bunch is the Raleigh Leeds Tour featuring the Panasonic EBike System. In Europe these bikes are marketed under the brands Kalfhoff and Rixe, however, by opting for Raleigh you will get full UK support from the national network of UK Raleigh dealers. The Panasonic crank drive motor has won world-wide approval for its efficiency, reliability, looks and lightweight setup. The system drives 250w of brushless power through the bike's own chain meaning that there literally won’t be a hill too steep to climb anymore. The 26v 10Ah battery only weighs 2.4kgs, yet returns a massive range of between 25 and 50 miles dependent on the mode you are in. Lithium technology means you can quickly recharge the battery at any point. The stunning looks of the Raleigh Leeds Tour coupled with the quiet operation of the Panasonic system means that if it wasn’t for the amazing performance, nobody would even know you were riding an electric bike! It comes fully equipped with front and rear lights run from an internal dynamo, hub gears and mudguards plus a stand so this bike is ready to go.
If traditional road bikes are more your thing, we have some remarkable deals on Ridley Road bikes just now. The Ridley Eos is available in small, medium or large sizes, has an amazing spec within our special price of £750 and is ideal as a sportif or lightweight tourer, or even as a fantastic winter bike. The deal on the full carbon Ridley Orion (last one!) is so good that I wouldn't be surprised if it was sold before I finish this blog - there is no where else you can buy performance like this for £1,200
Buying a bike for your child is something you want to get right. The internet can be tempting but it can never match the customer service on offer from a good specialist shop and the satisfaction to be gained from knowing that you have made the right choice. I thought I'd share this unsolicited customer review, with a special mention for Cal
" Hi. Gotta thank you for getting us to go to Mike's Bikes. Lovely folk, great service. My Cal totally delighted with bike and Big Cal was great with him. Will go back in few weeks to get service check.Thanks again for help with making my Calum a v v happy BMX boy! (I think the bike has now become surgically attatched to him somehow!) "
Our latest model for kids is the Dawes Tracker. Recognising the demand for no-nonsense, quality bikes for children identified by companies such as Islabikes, Dawes has produced a bike that matches the Isla Beinn for performance and philosophy but at a much more attractive price. The 24" wheel Tracker features an aluminium frame, alloy v-brakes, 18 speed Shimano EZ-Fire trigger shifters, alloy wheels and fast rolling semi slick tyres in both girls' and boys' models. The current price in Mikes Bikes is £190.00 - go compare!
Also new in (says Cal) is an extended range of DMR grips and pedals - more bike bling at pocket money prices
Some adventurous riding last week at Forest of Ae, one of the 7 Stanes resorts, will see me purchasing a new helmet this week following a tree stump/head interface. Never mind, the money I saved through the Ae cafe and bike shop being closed (the second time this summer I've had to miss the post-ride cake and coffee ) will mean I can rationalise myself a bargain on whatever I like from the comprehensive range in store. Currently riding high in the popularity stakes is the Uvex fp1 but Specialized are offering some very serious alternatives at very reasonable prices.
Finally, as a reward for reading this far, the bargain of the week. We have one Dawes 20" XC 2.0 frameset - hydro formed light alloy frame, disc ready, suitable for up to 120mm fork, curly stays - £150 to include the FSA headset!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As promised in the last blog, we have Cal's review of his latest bike, the Saracen Zen 1. Unfortunately, we don't have Sal's review of the Zen because she has been too busy being in Spain, doing her English homework and going out for dinner. Whilst being quite happy to accede to the maxim "what happens in Sitges, stays in Sitges" and having no interest in English homework, I was a little surprised that an offer to publish a review of the dinner date didn't meet with a little more enthusiaism So, here is Cal's first hand account of the Zen...
" I've been riding the Saracen Zen 1 for a little over two weeks now. I love it! Most of my riding has been on the High Burnside trails but I have also managed a day at Laggan Wolftrax. It is so fun! The Zen climbs well and descends even better. The RockShox Tora forks, powerful Shimano hydraulic brakes, SLX gears and a lightweight trail frame combine to make this a brilliant hardtail. Due to our fantastic Scottish summer, I have only managed to use it in the wet but Schwalbe's 'Nobby Nic' tyres kept me glued to the track. If you are looking for a fun hardtail that can bomb down hills (but still can be ridden back up them!) look at the Saracen Zen range - you won't be disappointed "
Continuing the theme of Eastern mystical philosophies, I benefitted from a little bit of Karma last week. Riding through Drumlanrig Castle in the rain I suffered a rear wheel puncture. The Bedman had assured me that he was carrying a spare tube and true to his word produced it for me. It looked like it had last seen service in another century and even the patches were older than my children. If it had been a mattress, it would have had a health warning. Unsurprisingly, it would not inflate. At this point, we were passed by half a dozen end to end riders closely followed by their support vehicle. Out popped a mechanic with a new tube and a track pump. Problem solved! I didn't feel too bad about not being able to pay him for it - a few of my spare tubes have found their way on to other bikes in previous good Samaritan episodes. If you want to prepare to put your own account into Karmic Kredit (or just want to avoid relying on people who ride £3.5k road bikes on patched tubes), check out our range of inner tubes. You never know when it will come in handy!
There has been rapid growth in the purchase of electric bikes in Holland in the past three years - recent purchases in Aviemore suggest that Scots might be catching up on the trend. There has never been a better time to buy an electrically assisted bicycle. The recent rise in the price of petrol has been accompanied by advances in design and development that make an electric bike a very real alternative. The pick of the bunch is the Raleigh Leeds Tour featuring the Panasonic EBike System. In Europe these bikes are marketed under the brands Kalfhoff and Rixe, however, by opting for Raleigh you will get full UK support from the national network of UK Raleigh dealers. The Panasonic crank drive motor has won world-wide approval for its efficiency, reliability, looks and lightweight setup. The system drives 250w of brushless power through the bike's own chain meaning that there literally won’t be a hill too steep to climb anymore. The 26v 10Ah battery only weighs 2.4kgs, yet returns a massive range of between 25 and 50 miles dependent on the mode you are in. Lithium technology means you can quickly recharge the battery at any point. The stunning looks of the Raleigh Leeds Tour coupled with the quiet operation of the Panasonic system means that if it wasn’t for the amazing performance, nobody would even know you were riding an electric bike! It comes fully equipped with front and rear lights run from an internal dynamo, hub gears and mudguards plus a stand so this bike is ready to go.
If traditional road bikes are more your thing, we have some remarkable deals on Ridley Road bikes just now. The Ridley Eos is available in small, medium or large sizes, has an amazing spec within our special price of £750 and is ideal as a sportif or lightweight tourer, or even as a fantastic winter bike. The deal on the full carbon Ridley Orion (last one!) is so good that I wouldn't be surprised if it was sold before I finish this blog - there is no where else you can buy performance like this for £1,200
Buying a bike for your child is something you want to get right. The internet can be tempting but it can never match the customer service on offer from a good specialist shop and the satisfaction to be gained from knowing that you have made the right choice. I thought I'd share this unsolicited customer review, with a special mention for Cal
" Hi. Gotta thank you for getting us to go to Mike's Bikes. Lovely folk, great service. My Cal totally delighted with bike and Big Cal was great with him. Will go back in few weeks to get service check.Thanks again for help with making my Calum a v v happy BMX boy! (I think the bike has now become surgically attatched to him somehow!) "
Our latest model for kids is the Dawes Tracker. Recognising the demand for no-nonsense, quality bikes for children identified by companies such as Islabikes, Dawes has produced a bike that matches the Isla Beinn for performance and philosophy but at a much more attractive price. The 24" wheel Tracker features an aluminium frame, alloy v-brakes, 18 speed Shimano EZ-Fire trigger shifters, alloy wheels and fast rolling semi slick tyres in both girls' and boys' models. The current price in Mikes Bikes is £190.00 - go compare!
Also new in (says Cal) is an extended range of DMR grips and pedals - more bike bling at pocket money prices
Some adventurous riding last week at Forest of Ae, one of the 7 Stanes resorts, will see me purchasing a new helmet this week following a tree stump/head interface. Never mind, the money I saved through the Ae cafe and bike shop being closed (the second time this summer I've had to miss the post-ride cake and coffee ) will mean I can rationalise myself a bargain on whatever I like from the comprehensive range in store. Currently riding high in the popularity stakes is the Uvex fp1 but Specialized are offering some very serious alternatives at very reasonable prices.
Finally, as a reward for reading this far, the bargain of the week. We have one Dawes 20" XC 2.0 frameset - hydro formed light alloy frame, disc ready, suitable for up to 120mm fork, curly stays - £150 to include the FSA headset!
Friday 5 August 2011
The Young Ones Part II
The Young Ones Part II
Jenny wants this blog to have a theme - I pointed out to her that they all have a theme, one week we make fun of a well known local outdoor equipment business magnate, the next week we say something derogatory about Bianchi man - however, it is about time we had an update on our assisted riders aka The Young Ones, so we have a ready made theme for this edition. Its a day when Young Ones all over Scotland will be opening envelopes from SQA. If you need cheering up check out the original Young Ones on youtube - if you got the results you were after, well done!
The first of our Young Ones updates is on Megan Riach. If you have an eye for a nice bike you will have seen Megan speeding around Aviemore and further afield on her Ridley Excalibur
" The last couple of months I've been competing in the National Omnium rounds and I've been trying to get back to form after the flu and injury. I managed to qualify for the British Omnium finals and this month I've been training for the British National Track Champsionships in August for the sprint, scratch and TT (still waiting comfirmation!). In the next two weeks I'm going to be racing at Dundee in the Scottish Scratch Championships and the next weekend I'm away in Bradford for the British National Road Circuit Championships. August is madness for me! I will be in Manchester training most of the time but will have to squeeze in a trip to Edinburgh for a few days at the Scottish Track Champsionships before returning to Manchester for the Omnium finals . I also have a week at the British Track Championships. "
Our more astutue readers will have noted that there has been a short delay in publishing Megan's update but it is nice to hear how busy she has been on the cycling scene and we look forward to hearing how she fared in the events she was preparing for.
Next cyclist up on our talented rider scheme is Hamish Hepburn of Carrbridge. Hamish recently took delivery of a Saracen Amplitude to add to his stable of bikes. Sick of your dad beating you on a road bike? Sick of your mum beating you on a mountain bike? Sick of your wee sister out-tricking you on a bmx? Solution? Buy a trials bike... the Amplitude does it all, whether you ride dirt, park or street. Sick of being made fun of in the blog? Solution? Write your own updates
The latest addition to the Young Ones squad is Elena Melton. Elena used Mike's Bikes and Merida to source what can only be described as an awesome Merida Scultura Evo full carbon frame in XS with a bespoke build to her spec from Mike's Bikes. With Ultegra componentry, RS80 wheels and female specific modifications it is a fantastic machine - special thanks are due to James at Merida for helping to make this possible. Elena races in the colours of Mikes Bike's sponsored Cairngorm Cycing Club.
Elena had a good result recently with a 3rd place at the British Series MTB race in Margam Park Wales. The 26 hours of driving involved is not doing anything for her dad's fitness. She has also won the last 2 Scottish Cross Country series races. The British MTB Nationals and the Scottish MTB Championships are on her race calendar then she is going to target the Scottish Circuit race championships in August. The plan then is to race the UK school games at the beginning of September, though this has yet to be confirmed. She is not expecting too much from early season racing as she adjusts to a new discipline but she is hoping to be competitive on the hill climb races at the end of the season, as her power to weight ratio is very good.
Elena has provide us with her own account of the Scottish XC Championships at Perth on 31st July 2011
With the UK Schools Games on the same weekend as the Drumlanrig SXC, Perth became the Scottish Championships in the youth and juvenile categories and the last SXC for me this year. So far I had two 1sts and a 3rd and was hopeful of a good result.
However things didn't get off to a very good start as i had quite a bad crash in practice. I can't really remember what happened but i was going too fast down a steep descent and ended up off the trail not being able to stop and only coming to a halt when my head hit off a big branch and flipped me off my bike. Surprisingly, I wasn't too badly hurt but I had lost my confidence on that descent and when I went back later to try and ride it without crashing I kept getting blocked and had to leave it.
I didn't feel too bad on the start line and not as mervous as usual. My start is not one of my strongest areas particularly when it is a flat or downhill start. All my main competitiors got ahead of me. I pulled myself back into 2nd place as the fire road started going uphill. Just as we were coming into the first uphill single track some riders got in between me and Erika who was in 1st place. One of them got off in front of me which forced me to get off too and run. I tried hard to close the gap but lost further time when I ran the section where I had crashed. I ended up coming in to the finish 2nd, 40 seconds behind Erika and 2 minutes ahead of Eve in 3rd place.
I felt a bit disappointed but not too bad.
Cal and Sal, our 'happy to help you' assistants here at Mike's Bikes are eagerly awaiting delivery of their matching Saracen Zen 1 mtbs - watch here for their expert verdicts! In the meantime they have been testing the shop GoPro camera on their current bikes on the trails around High Burnside. Check it out!
Finally, in the Young One's section, a rider who paid me a tenner to include him as a Young One. Andy, of well known local cycling duo Pandy, has just taken out the Merida 96er for an extended test ride on the Burma Road. Being a man of few (written) words and exhibiting a technical expertise uncommon in men his age, he has submitted his review in the form of an uploaded video. Who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks?!
Jenny wants this blog to have a theme - I pointed out to her that they all have a theme, one week we make fun of a well known local outdoor equipment business magnate, the next week we say something derogatory about Bianchi man - however, it is about time we had an update on our assisted riders aka The Young Ones, so we have a ready made theme for this edition. Its a day when Young Ones all over Scotland will be opening envelopes from SQA. If you need cheering up check out the original Young Ones on youtube - if you got the results you were after, well done!
The first of our Young Ones updates is on Megan Riach. If you have an eye for a nice bike you will have seen Megan speeding around Aviemore and further afield on her Ridley Excalibur
" The last couple of months I've been competing in the National Omnium rounds and I've been trying to get back to form after the flu and injury. I managed to qualify for the British Omnium finals and this month I've been training for the British National Track Champsionships in August for the sprint, scratch and TT (still waiting comfirmation!). In the next two weeks I'm going to be racing at Dundee in the Scottish Scratch Championships and the next weekend I'm away in Bradford for the British National Road Circuit Championships. August is madness for me! I will be in Manchester training most of the time but will have to squeeze in a trip to Edinburgh for a few days at the Scottish Track Champsionships before returning to Manchester for the Omnium finals . I also have a week at the British Track Championships. "
Our more astutue readers will have noted that there has been a short delay in publishing Megan's update but it is nice to hear how busy she has been on the cycling scene and we look forward to hearing how she fared in the events she was preparing for.
Next cyclist up on our talented rider scheme is Hamish Hepburn of Carrbridge. Hamish recently took delivery of a Saracen Amplitude to add to his stable of bikes. Sick of your dad beating you on a road bike? Sick of your mum beating you on a mountain bike? Sick of your wee sister out-tricking you on a bmx? Solution? Buy a trials bike... the Amplitude does it all, whether you ride dirt, park or street. Sick of being made fun of in the blog? Solution? Write your own updates
The latest addition to the Young Ones squad is Elena Melton. Elena used Mike's Bikes and Merida to source what can only be described as an awesome Merida Scultura Evo full carbon frame in XS with a bespoke build to her spec from Mike's Bikes. With Ultegra componentry, RS80 wheels and female specific modifications it is a fantastic machine - special thanks are due to James at Merida for helping to make this possible. Elena races in the colours of Mikes Bike's sponsored Cairngorm Cycing Club.
Elena had a good result recently with a 3rd place at the British Series MTB race in Margam Park Wales. The 26 hours of driving involved is not doing anything for her dad's fitness. She has also won the last 2 Scottish Cross Country series races. The British MTB Nationals and the Scottish MTB Championships are on her race calendar then she is going to target the Scottish Circuit race championships in August. The plan then is to race the UK school games at the beginning of September, though this has yet to be confirmed. She is not expecting too much from early season racing as she adjusts to a new discipline but she is hoping to be competitive on the hill climb races at the end of the season, as her power to weight ratio is very good.
Elena has provide us with her own account of the Scottish XC Championships at Perth on 31st July 2011
With the UK Schools Games on the same weekend as the Drumlanrig SXC, Perth became the Scottish Championships in the youth and juvenile categories and the last SXC for me this year. So far I had two 1sts and a 3rd and was hopeful of a good result.
However things didn't get off to a very good start as i had quite a bad crash in practice. I can't really remember what happened but i was going too fast down a steep descent and ended up off the trail not being able to stop and only coming to a halt when my head hit off a big branch and flipped me off my bike. Surprisingly, I wasn't too badly hurt but I had lost my confidence on that descent and when I went back later to try and ride it without crashing I kept getting blocked and had to leave it.
I didn't feel too bad on the start line and not as mervous as usual. My start is not one of my strongest areas particularly when it is a flat or downhill start. All my main competitiors got ahead of me. I pulled myself back into 2nd place as the fire road started going uphill. Just as we were coming into the first uphill single track some riders got in between me and Erika who was in 1st place. One of them got off in front of me which forced me to get off too and run. I tried hard to close the gap but lost further time when I ran the section where I had crashed. I ended up coming in to the finish 2nd, 40 seconds behind Erika and 2 minutes ahead of Eve in 3rd place.
I felt a bit disappointed but not too bad.
Cal and Sal, our 'happy to help you' assistants here at Mike's Bikes are eagerly awaiting delivery of their matching Saracen Zen 1 mtbs - watch here for their expert verdicts! In the meantime they have been testing the shop GoPro camera on their current bikes on the trails around High Burnside. Check it out!
Finally, in the Young One's section, a rider who paid me a tenner to include him as a Young One. Andy, of well known local cycling duo Pandy, has just taken out the Merida 96er for an extended test ride on the Burma Road. Being a man of few (written) words and exhibiting a technical expertise uncommon in men his age, he has submitted his review in the form of an uploaded video. Who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks?!
Monday 1 August 2011
Aviemore Zip Park Open
Zip Park Open and what a stunning week.
Check out just a few of the pic's from this weeks clients:-
Also a wee bit of footage:-
So if your keen for a shot give the boys and girls at G2 Outdoor a call on 01479 811008
So if your keen for a shot give the boys and girls at G2 Outdoor a call on 01479 811008
Tuesday 12 July 2011
Mikes scoops prize for least improoved rider
Midway through my summer placement at Mikes Bikes as blogger and tame older cyclist, I was fortunate to be in Aviemore for the Cairngorm Cycling Club One Mile Championship held at Loch Morlich. Despite the weather, eleven hardy athletes and Bianchi man made it to the starting line with eight riders hoping to better last year's times. Julia Kenneth, with an improvement of 15 seconds and Finlay Strivens who was 17 seconds faster than 2010 must have fancied their chances in the most improved rider category but they were blown away by the eventual winner.
Most Improved Rider - Paul Taylor - 2 min 27 sec - 24.5 mph - 46 seconds faster than 2010
It was good to witness Paul's return to form - we look forward to a podium finish in 2012
Despite recording the fastest time of the evening Mike had no competition in the Least Improved Rider category. A full second slower than last year, he was still fast enough to hold off the startlingly unimaginitive consistent Calum Irvine and Rob Edmunds, whose times of 2 min 22 sec and 2 min 23 sec respectively were exactly the same as last year's. On the ladies' podium the trend of 'experience over youth' was reversed with Julia Kenneth and Sally Devlin pushing Cairngorm CC sponsor Jenny Devlin into 3rd place. Honourable mentions go to newcomers to the mile championship Dave Machin and John Love but the most eagerly anticipated category of the evening, 1st over 50 (not using tribars) went to Dougie Macdonald. Modesty prevents further eloquent prose describing this stunning victory. The final award was the Bianchi Prize for the Fashionably Challenged, a well deserved triumph for Iain Kenneth
The official results are displayed in the window of Mikes Bikes but, personally, I prefer my version
We had a flying visit from the CEO of Madison, Dominic Langan on the day of the Shop to the Top Time Trial. It was nice to see his subsequent complimentary comments in the editorial of Madison's Independent trade magazine - there's always a coffee for any other CEOs who feel the need to get out of the office and visit the sharp end of the business! Dom remarked on the female friendly aspect of the shop - we are particularly pleased with the range of female specific mountain bikes at every price point (in addition to our comprehensive range of unisex bikes) - evidence that needs of all riders are important to us.
Obviously, having dealt with the major races, we should devote a little space to the up and coming events. Congratulations to Mark Cavendish on his stage victory in the Tour de France yesterday. The tour board outside Mikes Bikes is updated daily (when the rain doesn't wash the chalk off!) to provide info on the various leaders in the Maillot Jaune and other jersey competitions. To mark Le Tour, Mikes Bikes have a number of special Road Bike bargains from stock that will only apply for the duration of the race. Once Cavendish has taken that final sprint victory on the Champs-Élysée, prices return to pre tour levels!
Last Thursday's club ride from Mikes Bikes had a peloton of truly Tour de France proportions (though some of the riders were more generously sized ) - 35 riders showing how popular road biking has become. Unfortunately, we will be saying goodbye to Mark and Chris as they start new jobs in Kelso - nice roads down there and some good mtb trails!
In "Young Persons' News" Mikes Bikes extends a warm welcome to Bruce who joins Sally and Cal on the shop floor in a desperate attempt to lower the average age of Mikes Bikes staff to something under 40. No doubt they will be the staff sought out by our discerning younger riders when the awesome new Saracen Amplitude CR1 arrives this afternoon. A quality 24" wheel Trials bike at £329.99 - be quick or be disappointed!
Most Improved Rider - Paul Taylor - 2 min 27 sec - 24.5 mph - 46 seconds faster than 2010
It was good to witness Paul's return to form - we look forward to a podium finish in 2012
Despite recording the fastest time of the evening Mike had no competition in the Least Improved Rider category. A full second slower than last year, he was still fast enough to hold off the startlingly unimaginitive consistent Calum Irvine and Rob Edmunds, whose times of 2 min 22 sec and 2 min 23 sec respectively were exactly the same as last year's. On the ladies' podium the trend of 'experience over youth' was reversed with Julia Kenneth and Sally Devlin pushing Cairngorm CC sponsor Jenny Devlin into 3rd place. Honourable mentions go to newcomers to the mile championship Dave Machin and John Love but the most eagerly anticipated category of the evening, 1st over 50 (not using tribars) went to Dougie Macdonald. Modesty prevents further eloquent prose describing this stunning victory. The final award was the Bianchi Prize for the Fashionably Challenged, a well deserved triumph for Iain Kenneth
The official results are displayed in the window of Mikes Bikes but, personally, I prefer my version
We had a flying visit from the CEO of Madison, Dominic Langan on the day of the Shop to the Top Time Trial. It was nice to see his subsequent complimentary comments in the editorial of Madison's Independent trade magazine - there's always a coffee for any other CEOs who feel the need to get out of the office and visit the sharp end of the business! Dom remarked on the female friendly aspect of the shop - we are particularly pleased with the range of female specific mountain bikes at every price point (in addition to our comprehensive range of unisex bikes) - evidence that needs of all riders are important to us.
Obviously, having dealt with the major races, we should devote a little space to the up and coming events. Congratulations to Mark Cavendish on his stage victory in the Tour de France yesterday. The tour board outside Mikes Bikes is updated daily (when the rain doesn't wash the chalk off!) to provide info on the various leaders in the Maillot Jaune and other jersey competitions. To mark Le Tour, Mikes Bikes have a number of special Road Bike bargains from stock that will only apply for the duration of the race. Once Cavendish has taken that final sprint victory on the Champs-Élysée, prices return to pre tour levels!
Last Thursday's club ride from Mikes Bikes had a peloton of truly Tour de France proportions (though some of the riders were more generously sized ) - 35 riders showing how popular road biking has become. Unfortunately, we will be saying goodbye to Mark and Chris as they start new jobs in Kelso - nice roads down there and some good mtb trails!
In "Young Persons' News" Mikes Bikes extends a warm welcome to Bruce who joins Sally and Cal on the shop floor in a desperate attempt to lower the average age of Mikes Bikes staff to something under 40. No doubt they will be the staff sought out by our discerning younger riders when the awesome new Saracen Amplitude CR1 arrives this afternoon. A quality 24" wheel Trials bike at £329.99 - be quick or be disappointed!
Sunday 26 June 2011
mountain Expeditions
This summer has seen us kick off a number of dates for a three day Mountain Bushcraft/Survival course. 1 Day in Glenmore forest followed by two days over in the Loch A'an basin sleeping under the famous (or infamous) shelter stone.
This three day course focuses on Navigation, shelter including emergency shelter, security on steep ground, fire-craft, water collection and fishing.
If your interested in booking on one of these courses then let us know, fitness level should be high and you should have carried out one of our two day courses previously.
Thursday 23 June 2011
Stag and Hen Activities Aviemore, Grantown, Kingussie, Rothiemurchus, Glenmore, Newtonmore and Scotland
Stag and Hen activities Aviemore and the Cairngorms National Park.
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For stag and hen activities in the Cairngorms national park, Aviemore you have hit the jackpot with G2 Outdoor, the most popular activities are rafting and canyoning however we have had stag and hen groups do a wide range of things such as canoe camping trips, sea kayak trips, ski and snowboard lessons, gorge walking and rock climbing.
If you are after a tailor made trip then give us a call and we can organise most things to make your stag or hen do go smooth.
We can also advise on the best places to eat, get accommodation and last but not least the best places to drink.
For accommodation visit our friends webpage:-
http://www.g2outdoor.co.uk/about/friends-of-g2
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At G2 Outdoor we have been providing Outdoor activities for stag and hen groups for over ten years based in Aviemore we are easily reached from your accommodation either by car or foot as you may be slightly worse for wear after a big night, if it's that bad then we will pick you up.
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For stag and hen activities in the Cairngorms national park, Aviemore you have hit the jackpot with G2 Outdoor, the most popular activities are rafting and canyoning however we have had stag and hen groups do a wide range of things such as canoe camping trips, sea kayak trips, ski and snowboard lessons, gorge walking and rock climbing.We can also advise on the best places to eat, get accommodation and last but not least the best places to drink.
For accommodation visit our friends webpage:-
http://www.g2outdoor.co.uk/about/friends-of-g2
At G2 Outdoor we have been providing Outdoor activities for stag and hen groups for over ten years based in Aviemore we are easily reached from your accommodation either by car or foot as you may be slightly worse for wear after a big night, if it's that bad then we will pick you up.
For more information visit our website:-
or give us a call on 01479 811008
or email on info@g2outdoor.co.uk
Arrival of Specialized
Well, the news is finally out and Mike and Jenny are pleased to announce the safe delivery of that Special little bundle they have been expecting.
That's right, in a notable coup for small independent bike shops, Mikes Bikes are the newest Specialized dealer in the North. The arrival of the Specialized range adds some iconic model names such as Hardrock, Stumpjumper, Epic and Roubaix to the selection of established brands and models already on display at Mikes Bikes. Specialized's reputation as a market leader has been reflected by the interest shown in the bikes by regular visitors to the shop and several have already been sold - if you see a new Specialized around, check to see the orange Mikes Bikes sticker that marks its origins from a local business.
Of course, we continue to provide a wide choice for our customers. Newcomers Forme, a British company featuring Kinesis frames, are offering a particularly good deal this month on mens and womens Ramble Hybrids, knocking 20% off the shop floor price to deliver a 700c wheeled alloy hybrid with mechanical lockout forks and tektro disc brakes for £399. Leading the way on high end sales has been Merida, the company who make Specialized, with customers proving that money is no object when it comes to shaving an extra few seconds off their race times. It will be interesting to see how the Specialized S-Works models affect the market at this end. Also joining Forme, as from today 23rd June ,Merida have reduced a number of their srps - one of the best deals being £100 off the Merida 100D now retailing at £499.99.
This month's competition is to name five bike brands sold at Mikes Bikes, so with the previous two paragraphs providing three of them, I think that is enough for this article I think a future competition could be to decipher Specialized jargon - how about Body Geometry, Brain Technology and ZertZ for starters?
There is a rumour going round the town that Callum completed the Bikeathon on Sunday on something resembling a real bike. Also, Mike opted to provide mechanical and puncture repair services rather than risk his status as Aviemore's fastest Devlin, with Sally rolling up to the starting line on her public debut using SPD pedals. Unfortunately, there is no truth in the rumour that there is youtube footage of the embarrassing tumble at the flags at Dalfaber, resulting from an earlier SPD experiment (caused by Cal's brother, I am reliably informed). Sally's next competitive outing will be at Cairngorm Cycling Club's one mile challenge on Thursday - will Cal be there, or will he be collecting style points Strictly Come Cycling on his Ashton DB down round the town centre?
That's right, in a notable coup for small independent bike shops, Mikes Bikes are the newest Specialized dealer in the North. The arrival of the Specialized range adds some iconic model names such as Hardrock, Stumpjumper, Epic and Roubaix to the selection of established brands and models already on display at Mikes Bikes. Specialized's reputation as a market leader has been reflected by the interest shown in the bikes by regular visitors to the shop and several have already been sold - if you see a new Specialized around, check to see the orange Mikes Bikes sticker that marks its origins from a local business.
Of course, we continue to provide a wide choice for our customers. Newcomers Forme, a British company featuring Kinesis frames, are offering a particularly good deal this month on mens and womens Ramble Hybrids, knocking 20% off the shop floor price to deliver a 700c wheeled alloy hybrid with mechanical lockout forks and tektro disc brakes for £399. Leading the way on high end sales has been Merida, the company who make Specialized, with customers proving that money is no object when it comes to shaving an extra few seconds off their race times. It will be interesting to see how the Specialized S-Works models affect the market at this end. Also joining Forme, as from today 23rd June ,Merida have reduced a number of their srps - one of the best deals being £100 off the Merida 100D now retailing at £499.99.
This month's competition is to name five bike brands sold at Mikes Bikes, so with the previous two paragraphs providing three of them, I think that is enough for this article I think a future competition could be to decipher Specialized jargon - how about Body Geometry, Brain Technology and ZertZ for starters?
There is a rumour going round the town that Callum completed the Bikeathon on Sunday on something resembling a real bike. Also, Mike opted to provide mechanical and puncture repair services rather than risk his status as Aviemore's fastest Devlin, with Sally rolling up to the starting line on her public debut using SPD pedals. Unfortunately, there is no truth in the rumour that there is youtube footage of the embarrassing tumble at the flags at Dalfaber, resulting from an earlier SPD experiment (caused by Cal's brother, I am reliably informed). Sally's next competitive outing will be at Cairngorm Cycling Club's one mile challenge on Thursday - will Cal be there, or will he be collecting style points Strictly Come Cycling on his Ashton DB down round the town centre?
Tuesday 7 June 2011
G2's new Canyon site's now on our website
Canyoning near Aviemore, Scotland
Canyoning is probably the best Outdoor Adventure Activity you will ever do!! With fantastic pool jumps, natural water flumes, abseils through waterfalls and stunning scenery this is fast becoming Scotland and the UK’s must do outdoor activity. Based from our HQ in Aviemore near Inverness we can access some of Scotland’s best Canyons from great Stag and Hen venues through to the mighty Dundonnell Canyon for those clients who have experienced Canyons before or know what they are letting themselves in for!
G2 Outdoor is the specialist canyoning and gorge walking provider in the area and we have a few different venues to choose from so we will tailor the venue to your ability.
All you will need to bring is a spare pair of trainers and a towel we will provide you with wet suit, wet suit socks, splash suits and all safety equipment.
Minimum recommended age is 13 (however if you think your child is competent enough then we can consider younger, 9 is the youngest so far in the Laggan Canyon, for kids younger than 13 Gorge Walking is recommended)- Laggan Standard Stag, Hen, Family and Corporate trips
- Bruar Canyon Standard Stag, Hen, Family and Corporate trips
- Upper Bruar For those with experience or “balls of steel”!
- Dundonnell Canyon This is the full on real deal Canyon for those with Canyon experience or “balls of steel”!!
Price per person for our advanced “Upper Bruar” trip is £75 per person CLICK HERE
Price for our advanced “Mighty Dundonnell” trip is £90 per person CLICK HERE
For a Taste of Canyoning check out our Laggan video below this shows a standard trip.
Monday 6 June 2011
Outta Affric walking festival
This weekend past saw us over at Glen Affric for the Outta Affric walking festival. A good day for it, although it was midgy hell!!
A number of folk turned up for the sessions including MSP David Thompson and outdoors travel writer John Davidson.
If you don't know Glen Affric its definitely worth getting down there and having a look.
The Outta Affric festival is run by Tim and Gina Francis @ Natural high Guiding based in Tommich.
Wednesday 1 June 2011
Personalised Products @ Mikes Bikes
News from Rock & Run
R+R and Mikes Bikes: We are now manufacturing and developing a number of biking textile accessories for ‘Mike’s Bikes’ in Aviemore. Mikes Bikes is a small specialist cycling retailer, with a similar retailing ethos to our own. Couple this with their close proximity to our Aviemore workshop and it seemed like an obvious partnership. If you’re into your biking and in the locality, Mike’s is well worth a pit stop for both cycling spares and local knowledge…Check our facebook on; http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/rockruncom Mikes Bikes have a number of saddle bags for sale and have put them on their hire bikes, and we are informed they hold an SKS mini pump. tyre levers, tube, mobile phone, energy bar, keys and cash ....what more do you need?
R+R and Mikes Bikes: We are now manufacturing and developing a number of biking textile accessories for ‘Mike’s Bikes’ in Aviemore. Mikes Bikes is a small specialist cycling retailer, with a similar retailing ethos to our own. Couple this with their close proximity to our Aviemore workshop and it seemed like an obvious partnership. If you’re into your biking and in the locality, Mike’s is well worth a pit stop for both cycling spares and local knowledge…Check our facebook on; http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/rockruncom Mikes Bikes have a number of saddle bags for sale and have put them on their hire bikes, and we are informed they hold an SKS mini pump. tyre levers, tube, mobile phone, energy bar, keys and cash ....what more do you need?
Monday 23 May 2011
Living from the land
Blogging has been slow at the moment due to the amount of time being spent out in the field! However there have been some pretty special courses we've been running here at Backcountry and there seems to be a increase in people wanting to live off the land. Be it foraging, native fishing techniques or trapping - we've shown that its not always the most comfortable experience given the recent weather, but massively worthwhile.
Theres plenty of food about now that we're well into spring, from good old wood/sheep sorrel, dandelion, dock leaves, nettles, fungi, lichens as well as plenty of brown trout and wascely wabbits to catch!
If you want to learn more or even head into the hills for a multi-day foraging and trapping course then give us a shout. See you out there!
Wednesday 18 May 2011
G2's Zip Park under construction.
G2's new activity for this year is a Zip Park check out the video for a snippet of one of the wires recently installed:-
Watch out for the opening of the Zip park around the end of June follow us on our blogsite:-
Or on our Facebook page
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Aviemore-United-Kingdom/G2-OUTDOOR/53541535291
Wednesday 4 May 2011
Cairngorm Cycling Club, Mikes Bikes
Hello,
Just a quick reminder if you are in the area on holiday and have your racing bike with you feel free to come along to the Cairngorm Cycling Club on a Thursday night - meeting place normally Mikes Bikes at 6.30pm (check out the club website) or pop into Mikes Bikes. Club runs can be anything from one hour up to 2.5 hours depending on the weather and distance. Typical runs are; the Aviemore to Kingussie loop (30+ miles) or out towards Tomintoul (30 + miles) or the hill climb to the Cairngorm Ski Carpark. It helps if you have experience of riding in groups. Cheers Mikes Bikes...
Just a quick reminder if you are in the area on holiday and have your racing bike with you feel free to come along to the Cairngorm Cycling Club on a Thursday night - meeting place normally Mikes Bikes at 6.30pm (check out the club website) or pop into Mikes Bikes. Club runs can be anything from one hour up to 2.5 hours depending on the weather and distance. Typical runs are; the Aviemore to Kingussie loop (30+ miles) or out towards Tomintoul (30 + miles) or the hill climb to the Cairngorm Ski Carpark. It helps if you have experience of riding in groups. Cheers Mikes Bikes...
Saturday 23 April 2011
G2 Outdoor's new Gorge walking via ferrata site on Alvie estate
New Gorge via-ferrata site on Alvie estate up and running wooooohoooo!
New Gorge via ferrata on Alvie Estate
At last we have our new gorge walking site on Alvie Estate up and running with our first clients in there today having a blast check out the video below of what it's all about:-
At last we have our new gorge walking site on Alvie Estate up and running with our first clients in there today having a blast check out the video below of what it's all about:-
The site includes a via-ferrata course past the waterfall with the usual jumps and slides this site is another step up from our bridge of brown site which is also a family friendly site but not as full on as the Alvie gorge.
so if your mad for it then give the G2 gang a shout on 01479 811008
Friday 22 April 2011
Competition Time
Competition time at Mikes Bikes, check out www.aviemorebikes.co.uk - we are looking for your best 'biking snaps'from in and around the Cairngorm National Park, 2 prizes up for grabs - Good Luck!
Wednesday 13 April 2011
Biking Season at Last
Finally, it appears that the weather is improving, longer evenings warmer weather (sometines), and less rain/snow. This blogger has even been out in shorts, and its not June.
Following extensive works on the Burnside trails by contractors, it appears that the new trail is now working, Mike has been spotted on his Merida 96 full suss, £1849.99 from you know where! The new trail is fast an technical at the same time, and is great for breaking the big chainring!?
The Road Club has now swung in to full swing with healthy turnouts already, and loads excuses regarding inclement weather for winter training. Rob is the current sprint champ, with 3 wins last week, no 30mph sign is safe! The club popped out to Achlean, and carried out the required pursuit exercise, although some thought it was all a bit childish (Heather Morning anyone?), and remained aloof from the fight to the death. Amazing is the only superlative for a certain Ms Kenneth, who claimed a number of male scalps with her awesome climbing and sprinting on her Ridley Yana.
Mike is riding his new Raleigh SP Race £1899.99 (runner up (2nd) in the top 50 road bikes of 2011, in Cycling Plus). As ever it has been "blinged", with anodised jockey wheels (£18.99), One23 headset spacers (red), (shaped as sprockets). the awesome KNOG computer (no tools fitment), from £40, and the new San Marco SKN titanium saddle (£69.99). Future blogs will review the bike. Staying on road bikes, Mikes Bikes have an exclusive Ridley deal this year (limited stock), with a Ridley Triton frame, full Shimano compact Group, Shimano RS10 wheels (yes, on a bike this price!), and full Oval finishing kit for only £629.99, we only have six so hurry!
The dirt jumps are now back to being the place to be for the dudes in Aviemore, with BMX being the ride of choice for the bikers. Mikes Bikes has an extensive range of bikes for 2011 with the Scorpion Banish proving a big hit (£320 reduced to £270), light Cromoly frame, three piece cranks, Schwalbe tyres, Micro Drive and a pivotal saddle. Finally, the new Diamondback Skindog is back in stock, £279.99, as well as the affordable Diamondback Option at £159.99.
Over the past few months many of you have enquired about building bikes either yourself or getting Mikes Bikes to build up a bike, as a result of this Mikes Bikes can now offer great deals on the following drive-train groupsets, Shimano Sora (road) 9-speed, Shimano Tiagra, Shimano 105, Shimano Ultegra, Shimano Deore, Shimano XT Dyna-sys, just ask us for a quote! A groupset includes Bottom Bracket cups, Cassette, Chain, Brake Calipers (road sets only), cables, chainset, front & rear mechs, front & rear shifters.
Example: Shimano Sora group offer: £ 240
Following extensive works on the Burnside trails by contractors, it appears that the new trail is now working, Mike has been spotted on his Merida 96 full suss, £1849.99 from you know where! The new trail is fast an technical at the same time, and is great for breaking the big chainring!?
The Road Club has now swung in to full swing with healthy turnouts already, and loads excuses regarding inclement weather for winter training. Rob is the current sprint champ, with 3 wins last week, no 30mph sign is safe! The club popped out to Achlean, and carried out the required pursuit exercise, although some thought it was all a bit childish (Heather Morning anyone?), and remained aloof from the fight to the death. Amazing is the only superlative for a certain Ms Kenneth, who claimed a number of male scalps with her awesome climbing and sprinting on her Ridley Yana.
Mike is riding his new Raleigh SP Race £1899.99 (runner up (2nd) in the top 50 road bikes of 2011, in Cycling Plus). As ever it has been "blinged", with anodised jockey wheels (£18.99), One23 headset spacers (red), (shaped as sprockets). the awesome KNOG computer (no tools fitment), from £40, and the new San Marco SKN titanium saddle (£69.99). Future blogs will review the bike. Staying on road bikes, Mikes Bikes have an exclusive Ridley deal this year (limited stock), with a Ridley Triton frame, full Shimano compact Group, Shimano RS10 wheels (yes, on a bike this price!), and full Oval finishing kit for only £629.99, we only have six so hurry!
The dirt jumps are now back to being the place to be for the dudes in Aviemore, with BMX being the ride of choice for the bikers. Mikes Bikes has an extensive range of bikes for 2011 with the Scorpion Banish proving a big hit (£320 reduced to £270), light Cromoly frame, three piece cranks, Schwalbe tyres, Micro Drive and a pivotal saddle. Finally, the new Diamondback Skindog is back in stock, £279.99, as well as the affordable Diamondback Option at £159.99.
Over the past few months many of you have enquired about building bikes either yourself or getting Mikes Bikes to build up a bike, as a result of this Mikes Bikes can now offer great deals on the following drive-train groupsets, Shimano Sora (road) 9-speed, Shimano Tiagra, Shimano 105, Shimano Ultegra, Shimano Deore, Shimano XT Dyna-sys, just ask us for a quote! A groupset includes Bottom Bracket cups, Cassette, Chain, Brake Calipers (road sets only), cables, chainset, front & rear mechs, front & rear shifters.
Example: Shimano Sora group offer: £ 240
Monday 4 April 2011
What a great weekend.
What a great weekend a big thanks must go to Craig Burry and the Old Bridge Inn for putting on a great time at the Scottish Backcountry festival. Workshop ski and snowboard touring clinics running through Saturday day time on Cairngorm Mountain with G2 Outdoors Nick Etheridge and George Reid taking the courses, with the forecast looking pretty grim for Saturday then hey ho come the big day and no wind, the forecast wrong again!!
Thinking the day couldn't get any better and everybody pleased with themselves we all wandered to the Old Bridge for a few quiet pints!!!!!! Oh how wrong we were! What a great night with some awesome films played from 8 onwards and the Cairngorm Brewery laying on a special backcountry festival brew this was turning into a real hangover for the next day!
Thanks for a great weekend guys
cheers
Mike G2
Thinking the day couldn't get any better and everybody pleased with themselves we all wandered to the Old Bridge for a few quiet pints!!!!!! Oh how wrong we were! What a great night with some awesome films played from 8 onwards and the Cairngorm Brewery laying on a special backcountry festival brew this was turning into a real hangover for the next day!
Thanks for a great weekend guys
cheers
Mike G2
Saturday 2 April 2011
Old Bridge - Thanks for the deer skins, Neil!
...sorry, nearly forgot, big thanks to Neil at Backcountry survival (see article below). We love the deer skins, now draped over the pews in our restaurant. Great work mate!
Backcountry Ski, Board & Film Festival - Old Bridge Inn
Afternoon good people,
We're all a wee bitty excited down at the Bridge, as the sun is out, people are moving into beer garden mode and there's lots going on this weekend.
Last night we had some excellent trad tunes from Ord Ban (a band lovingly named after the recently closed restaurant of the same name, having had so many good times there with Polly and Ross). Tonight they'll be back with more tunes, alongside the Banana Sessions. You may well have caught team Banana in action here before. They are quirky, they are funky, they've got soul and they can sing. But don't take our word for it...come see for yourself!
Before that, though, we have the Back Country Ski & Board film festival taking place. Craig Burry came to us with this idea some time ago and we were delighted to take him up on his request for us to host the event. G2 and Mountain Spirit have been runing the day events up in them there hills, while we'll look after you all at night.
Come see the film footage of the best of what Scottish backcountry exploration has to offer. There'll be prizes dished out for the best video, best editing and best action, as voted for by whoever comes to watch. 8pm for this, with music from about 10pm.
Tomorrow, the Banana Sessions are hanging around to serenade our dearest mother's over lunch. Treat them to a roast (your mum, not the Bananas), some lovely tunes and as much cake as they can handle.
Hope to see you all soon.
Team OBI x x
Wednesday 30 March 2011
Helmet sale at Mountain Spirit!
Accidents happen, it's a fact of life. When you are hurtling down the side of a mountain and loose your balance, get caught in an avalanche or have simply forgotten to remove the dog's lead which then ends up hooked on your ski brake, wearing a helmet can make all the difference between skiing back home with or without your brains intact.
In order to help ease your mind at that point just before you perform a spectacular head plant, we at Mountain Spirit have taken 20% off all our ski helmets in store! So when that well-known phrase reserved for particularly bad situations is racing through your mind, you at least will be glad to know that your all important head is that wee bit safer in your new helmet!
Mountain Spirit 01479 811 788
Tuesday 29 March 2011
Deer skin Tanning
I recieved a phone call from Old Bridge Inn Chef, Chris, a month back saying that they had just received 3 Sika deer and 2 Red deer from Rothimurcus to use for their Venison dishes, and would I be able to cure the skins for the pub. No problems said I, having done a fair amount of tanning in Backcountry Courses and off I went to pick them up.
The traditional way to cure skins in Scotland is by using the brains of pigs and sheep, or indeed that of the animal that you are tanning to treat the under surface. For the sake of hygiene and a reasonably polished finish I opted for the tried and tested method of using Alum
(Aluminium) Powder, Salt and Borax (an Acid used in the final stages of treatment).
After weeks of scrapping, soaking and stretching the skins all but one had taken nicely. The skin that hadn't turned out as hoped had been riddled with Bot fly larvae. The Bot fly lays its eggs on the under side of the animals pelt whilst it is still alive,the maggots then live and feed as parasites until they are ready to hatch and leave the host. This of course leaves the pelt cover
ed in tiny holes which affects the appearance and durability of the hair. Nonetheless 4 out of 5 aint bad.
As payment for the skins Chris, Gordy and the other guys laid on an unbelievably good feed for myself and the Mrs. 5 courses - including a new dish of his which comprised of roast duck breast on a bed of roast vegetables, North sea Cod, onion soup with truffle oil and locally sourced Salmon. Nice one fellas!
If anyone is interested in Backcountry skins we have a whole load of Roe deer, red deer and sika coming through shortly, all are from local estates and are sustainably farmed.
Thanks Neil
Sunday 27 March 2011
Raft raft raft raft raft raft raft raft lets have some rafting near Aviemore, Kingussie, Grantown, Rothiemurchus, Glenmore,
Rafting in Aviemore, Scotland with G2 outdoor
Rafting Trips will usually start at 10am and finish about 4pm however if you want to start earlier or later we can run a bespoke trip to suit your needs, when the weather is favourable we will stop for lunch on the way down the river so bring a pack lunch with you or we can provide you with a pack lunch for a small cost.
White Water rafting Aviemore, Scotland All you will need to bring is a spare pair of trainers and a towel we will provide you with wetsuit, wetsuit socks, splash suit and all other safety equipment.
Standard price is £40 per person for half day easy rafting trip or £55 per person for standard day white water rafting trip, large group discount available depending on group size please contact for details.
If you are in Aviemore for a few days why not try a few of our other activities such as Canyoning, gorge walking, mini rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, abseiling or skiing.
Or Call 01479 811008
Saturday 26 March 2011
Takin' it to the Bridge!
Yowza Yowza Yowza! And a very good afternoon to y'all.
Last night we were served up a big puff pastry pie of total quality, thanks to the ever stunning Donna Maciocia and fellow Edinburger musical co-horts Paul Gilbody and Stu Goodall. If this were a facebook update, there would be a little thumbs up right here...
...but it isnae! Instead, here's a wee video of theirs, to sooth the pain of whoever missed it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1s6Nwd0Yato
TONIGHT THOUGH.....sees the debut of all star highland party starters, BROKEBACK JOCKSTRAP. They'll be doing a wee weekend residency here, covering apres ski duties Saturday and Sunday afternoon / early evening and bringing the full blown ho-down blue grass meltdown, purely for the pleasure of your ears, feet and hips, later on tonight too. So that's 5 bells (ish), both days and 10 bells (ish) tonight.
There'll also be some tunes from your OBI resident DJ, Uncle Funkle, doing his best to put the funk back in your dysfunkctional Saturday night behaviour.
TUESDAY'S VACCINES GIG....as many of you will already know, has been CANCELLED. The poor lad they call a front man has got a sore throat (seems to happen every time he thinks about coming here). Well, we wish him a speedy recovery and good luck with his life.
THURSDAY = Abagail Grey and OBI's first folk sesh-inn (get it?!?!...sorry) of the year.
Abagail Grey are more than likely the sexiest thing ever to happen to folk music. Those who caught them at the Insider will recall having being stopped dead in their tracks at the site of beautiful woman playing harps in silver shimmery lycra. You half expected Dr Spock and Captain Kirk to break out on percussion, having been instantly hypnotised by these evil, intergalactic space suit clad vixens. But no, reality kicked in and instead we were all just wooed by their wonderfully charming music and presence, then we had a falafel.
Their performance on Thursday will be followed by a folk session. Bring your instruments, your gumption, preferably some level of talent and a light hearted smile. We'll provide the rest.
So, for now, in the words of Dame Vera...
we'll meet again,
don't know where,
don't know when,
but I know we'll meet again, some sunny day!
Big love x x
Thursday 24 March 2011
Le soleil arrive
Finally, at the second attempt spring/summer seems to have arrived, the cross country skis will keep the spiders happy for 8mths!!!
Over the past few weeks the Cycling club has been out on thursdays with lights, warm clothing and Mountain/cross bikes. Its time to forget the winter! Mike has finally been able to test his Merida Ninety-Six 1000d (yes, it's a mouthful!), it is his third one in 8 months, as customers have bought the last two, before one was even ridden! This bike is the ultimate mountain bike: light, fast and agile on the downhill, it is a race bred full suss, which has full remote lock-out and is based on the bike ridden by world MTB champ Jose Hermida. If you are tall, mike might let you borrow it! At £1800, it is a bargain for a bike with full shimano SLX, Manitou air forks and carbon rear end.
However, what really brought cheer to mikes face was the chance to ride his new Raleigh SP Race in the sun, this award winning bike was 2nd in the Cycling Plus 50 best road bikes 2011, it is absolutely awesome, and has a spec to die for, full ultegra, BB30, full carbon frame, ITM fork, stem & bars, Sella itallia SKN saddle, Shimano RS20 wheels, and all for £1900. This has got to be the best value carbon race bike on the market. Its so popular that it is almost sold out in the UK. In addition it is bling in the extreme, finished it a retro white colour scheme.
Mikes Bikes prides itself on trying to buy British whenever possible, and it has now taken delivery of a range of the most exciting range of British bikes for 2011. Forme (french for fitness), aim their Road bikes at the Sportif market, their Mountain bikes at the fitness riding market, and their hybrid at the commuting/fitness rider. The bike frames are designed in the UK and manufactured by Kinesis (Makers of Bianchi, Cannondale etc), and the mountain bikes sport fast tyres, bar ends, flat bars and sporty geometry. Come in and have a look!!
As I mentioned the cycling club has continued, and even welcomed new members this winter, Hamish has shown us that years of exploration (Greenland, South America etc, ) & 20 yrs in Mountain rescue have not ruined his talent to get lost in a blizzard, within sight of Aviemore! In addition, the club chairman has honed his skillful avoidance of water, by using every bridge whilst everyone else cycles through the puddles!
Over the past few weeks the Cycling club has been out on thursdays with lights, warm clothing and Mountain/cross bikes. Its time to forget the winter! Mike has finally been able to test his Merida Ninety-Six 1000d (yes, it's a mouthful!), it is his third one in 8 months, as customers have bought the last two, before one was even ridden! This bike is the ultimate mountain bike: light, fast and agile on the downhill, it is a race bred full suss, which has full remote lock-out and is based on the bike ridden by world MTB champ Jose Hermida. If you are tall, mike might let you borrow it! At £1800, it is a bargain for a bike with full shimano SLX, Manitou air forks and carbon rear end.
However, what really brought cheer to mikes face was the chance to ride his new Raleigh SP Race in the sun, this award winning bike was 2nd in the Cycling Plus 50 best road bikes 2011, it is absolutely awesome, and has a spec to die for, full ultegra, BB30, full carbon frame, ITM fork, stem & bars, Sella itallia SKN saddle, Shimano RS20 wheels, and all for £1900. This has got to be the best value carbon race bike on the market. Its so popular that it is almost sold out in the UK. In addition it is bling in the extreme, finished it a retro white colour scheme.
Mikes Bikes prides itself on trying to buy British whenever possible, and it has now taken delivery of a range of the most exciting range of British bikes for 2011. Forme (french for fitness), aim their Road bikes at the Sportif market, their Mountain bikes at the fitness riding market, and their hybrid at the commuting/fitness rider. The bike frames are designed in the UK and manufactured by Kinesis (Makers of Bianchi, Cannondale etc), and the mountain bikes sport fast tyres, bar ends, flat bars and sporty geometry. Come in and have a look!!
As I mentioned the cycling club has continued, and even welcomed new members this winter, Hamish has shown us that years of exploration (Greenland, South America etc, ) & 20 yrs in Mountain rescue have not ruined his talent to get lost in a blizzard, within sight of Aviemore! In addition, the club chairman has honed his skillful avoidance of water, by using every bridge whilst everyone else cycles through the puddles!
Wednesday 23 March 2011
Bumps clinic with G2 Outdoor
We live for Bumps on the White Lady
Oh big slushy bump zip line on the lady
That could possibly be a song title "oh big slushy bump zip line on the lady"! Sorry losing it after a great morning smashing the zip line on Cairngorm Mountain on the White Lady just like the Old days except the legs don't last as long!
Check out the video footage of old timer Mike in the Zip line, after which he collapsed in a heap and is currently having reconstructive surgery on his knees as he's old and past it!!
Thanks to the usual suspects for turning out for the G2 telemark drop-in clinics Paul, June, Sarah, Martin and new member all the way from the snowy mecca of Nottingham, Arne (Norwegian name, think that's why he was awesome at Telemarking)
cheers
Mike
That could possibly be a song title "oh big slushy bump zip line on the lady"! Sorry losing it after a great morning smashing the zip line on Cairngorm Mountain on the White Lady just like the Old days except the legs don't last as long!
Check out the video footage of old timer Mike in the Zip line, after which he collapsed in a heap and is currently having reconstructive surgery on his knees as he's old and past it!!
Thanks to the usual suspects for turning out for the G2 telemark drop-in clinics Paul, June, Sarah, Martin and new member all the way from the snowy mecca of Nottingham, Arne (Norwegian name, think that's why he was awesome at Telemarking)
cheers
Mike
Saturday 19 March 2011
Saturday Night Live!
After a truly outstanding week for snowsports (the pub almost had to close at one point because no-one could resist the lure of the powder!) we have some great live music if anyone's looking to get out tonight and enjoy Aviemore's other favourite past-time, drinking with mates in a pub!
First up at about 10pm is Robin Adams - his new soon-to-be-released album has received 4 and 5*****star reviews from very respectable music press such as The Scotsman and This Is Music.
Then headlining is The Last Battle - a contemporary folk 7-piece from Edinburgh who's album was also critically lauded including an 'album of the year 2010' accolade from one of the country's top music blogs!
OBI x
First up at about 10pm is Robin Adams - his new soon-to-be-released album has received 4 and 5*****star reviews from very respectable music press such as The Scotsman and This Is Music.
Then headlining is The Last Battle - a contemporary folk 7-piece from Edinburgh who's album was also critically lauded including an 'album of the year 2010' accolade from one of the country's top music blogs!
OBI x
Thursday 17 March 2011
What a great day for G2's Drop in Telemark clinics
What a day on Cairngorm mountain for our drop in telemark clinics
Great conditions for our drop in clinics
G2 Outdoor's wednesday drop in clinic this week were attended by local experts Paul Masson And June Masson showing the young dude's how to smash the powder on the east wall of the white lady, whilst the young dude's Robin Kinaird, Martin Coulthard, Paul Jones, Dave Boffey and Mike Gale(!!!) watch on in amazement!!
The conditions couldn't have been better with a fresh 10cm already on top of a fresh 70cm of windblown powder hmmmmmmm nice, needless to say not much talking and teaching went on so we just decided to smash the powder on the Aonach, Lady, the triangle and in Sneachda.
http://www.g2outdoor.co.uk/winter-activities/telemark
Thanks for a great day guys.
cheers
Mike
G2 Outdoor's wednesday drop in clinic this week were attended by local experts Paul Masson And June Masson showing the young dude's how to smash the powder on the east wall of the white lady, whilst the young dude's Robin Kinaird, Martin Coulthard, Paul Jones, Dave Boffey and Mike Gale(!!!) watch on in amazement!!
The conditions couldn't have been better with a fresh 10cm already on top of a fresh 70cm of windblown powder hmmmmmmm nice, needless to say not much talking and teaching went on so we just decided to smash the powder on the Aonach, Lady, the triangle and in Sneachda.
Thanks for a great day guys.
cheers
Mike
Sunday 13 March 2011
Friction Fire lighting
Friction Fire
If it came down to it could you start a fire from scratch? No matches, no lighter. One of the most important skills you could ever learn, it could even save your life one day. Read on!
Bowdrillarticle
If it came down to it could you start a fire from scratch? No matches, no lighter. One of the most important skills you could ever learn, it could even save your life one day. Read on!
Bowdrillarticle
Mega Snow and some interesting Ski Mountaineering conditions
Mega Snow on Cairngorm Mountain
Having lunch on the hill in our emergency shelters
This season has been awesome for the G2 Outdoors team for ski mountaineering with Nick running courses and private guiding most weeks lets see if he beats last years 49 days of ski mountaineering!
Check out the video below of the awesome potential we have for playing in the Cairngorms
Check out the video below of the awesome potential we have for playing in the Cairngorms
Cheers
From the G2 Team
Old Bridge Inn goings on.....
Hello everyone!
Firstly, big thanks to Mike for getting this up and running. Good work. At the Old Bridge we're ("we" being Owen, Kim, Gordie and all the team) delighted to be amongst such esteemed company.
Without further ado, here's what's going on at our end of the village.......
A couple of big ones on the horizon are The Vaccines gig on Tuesday 29th March, and the Scottish Backcountry festival on April 2nd.
The Vaccines look set to go straight to number 1 when their debut album is released in the coming weeks, and are surely the biggest act to come to Aviemore in recent memory! We'll be locking down the pub for this one - Tickets are £8 and selling fast.
The Scottish Backcountry festival will be a celebration of Scotlands less-explored mountains, with workshops and guided days from the guys at G2 and also a backcountry film competition. They are still seeking entrants, check out this great interview with Jamie Johnston for inspiration! There will be live music all weekend from The Banana Sessions, William Douglas and Ord Ban
Here's the lowdown...
***EAT***
This month sees Spring creeping back into our lives and the excitement is palpable in the OBI kitchen as the chefs prepare themselves for the rich bounty that comes with it!
Look out for new seasonal dishes appearing on the menu as new produce becomes available. It will, however, be sad to see the back of the delicious Cairngorm white mountain hare...
Also from the kitchen, we're delighted at the return we've been getting on our recently acquired smoker. Venison, salmon, hare, home-made chorizos and black-pudding, even butter(!) have all been getting the woodsmoke treatment to amazing effect. Look out for OBI-smoked treats on the menu.
***DRINK***
We have some cracking new malts on the gantry. Current pub favourite is Lagavulin PX matured in Pedro Ximinez sweet sherry casks which give an incredibly sweet mellow flavour. For the very brave, Laphroaig Cask-Strength comes in at a peat-laden 58.3% and is definitely one for the connoisseurs.
New Spring-friendly cocktails are being worked on in the lab and will be getting debuted very soon, hang around the bar long enough and you might even get to taste one of the trialists...
***LISTEN***
(We'll provide links to artists/bands' music where possible so that you can do more than just take our word for it. Go listen!)
For anyone looking for some last-minute Sunday night entertainment we have live music tonight at 9pm in the shape of Matt Norris and the Moon, an Edinburgh nu-folk outfit who draw obvious comparisons, from lazy blurb writers, to posh faux-folksters M*mford & S*ns. We wouldn't do that though. Support comes from Joe Black, lead singer of the totally wonderful Washington Irving, playing a rare solo set. A real treat!
Saturday March 19th - 10pm
A night of great songwriting - The Last Battle play slightly melancholic folk pop a la King Creosote, whilst Robin Adams combines lush guitar and darkly beautiful singing with a brooding lyrical style.
Friday/Saturday/Sunday March 25/26/27th - 10pm
A wee weekend residency, supplying tongue-in-cheek cajun/bluegrass covers to keep apres-skiers and drinkers entertained. Watch out for them on Cairngorms too as they take their musical message to the mountains for a shred and a jam!
Friday March 25th - 10pm
Three of Edinburgh's finest singer/songwriters are taking to the road for a celebration of of song and companionship. Sounds like an excuse to drink lots of whisky in great Highland pubs.
Saturday March 26th - 10pm
FUNK! The very first of our new, and as-yet un-named (suggestions please!), monthly Funk nights which will feature live bands and DJ's doing their thing as we go dancefloor daft in the lounge! The Leonard Jones Potential are the Highlands' flyest outfit, keepin' it local, keepin' it funky! Also appearing at a ski resort near you...
Tuesday March 29th - 9pm
The Vaccines - £8
The most hyped band in the country since the last one (the Arctic Monkeys?) this will almost certainly be the smallest gig they play all year, or ever again for that matter! Punky pop rock inspired heavily by Joy Division/The Ramones.
*Dinner Service will finish 8pm on this night to allow for changeover for the gig. From 9pm the pub will be ticket only*
Thursday March 31st - 9pm
Kooky, folky Invernessian band who are back for the second crack at the OBI. A lovely excuse to come out on a Thursday night, an informal trad sesh will follow the gig and keep the party going all night!
April and beyond...
Monday 16th May - Lau (£14)
Tuesday 31st May - Kan (£12)
***
You can also check out our burgeoning youtube channel here where we'll be posting up music from bands past and present to play in the pub. Watching it is a guaranteed great way to waste an hour or two!
Until we meet again x x
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