SAFETY AND ACCESS
Exposed and remote routes
Plan mountain and moorland rides around navigation, weather, escape time, communication and self-sufficiency.
Reviewed · General UK planning guidance · Check current operator and manufacturer information
Assess commitment
Distance from the road is only one measure.
- Review elevation, shelter, mobile coverage, river crossings and technical escape routes.
- Estimate the slowest realistic return in poor conditions.
- Choose a route within the group’s navigation and repair capability.
Carry the margin
Prepare to stop moving for longer than expected.
- Carry offline and paper navigation, insulation, shelter, food, water and first aid.
- Bring repair equipment appropriate to the bikes and terrain.
- Share the route and overdue action with a reliable contact.
Turn back early
The summit or far point is optional; a safe return is not.
- Use preset weather, daylight and battery thresholds.
- Do not split the group to preserve the original plan.
- Call for help early when injury, navigation or exposure cannot be safely managed.
Useful official guidance
Rules, conditions and services change. Use these sources and the relevant venue’s current information before relying on a plan.
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