This ride encompasses elements of three existing rides: Alternate Big Loop, M7 and Prospect Canal. We ride through back streets of Epping to Pennant Hills Rd and then follow an undulating route through West Pennant Hills with some short challenging climbs (up to 18% gradient) before undulating through the back streets of Baulkham Hills and meeting up with the start of the M7 cycleway near Glenwood.
An undulating ride along the M7 before we stop near the M4 @ Spaghetti Junction for a water stop. We continue along the M7 with a reasonable amount of climbing before we turn left near Abbotsbury (Equestrian Park) and climb up to Moonrise Lookout and take in the view.
We then drop down from the lookout exercising caution (steep descent) following the path eastwards to our coffee stop at Pemulwuy (Granatas). After coffee, we head along old the water canal cycleway passing Merrylands to Parramatta and thence under the M4 (cycleway) and Parramatta Valley Cycleway to Meadowbank. Finally climb up the returning to Epping.
The ride is suitable for strong self-sufficient riders on road bikes. Riders need to be competent in suburban traffic environments. This hard grade ride has a surprising amount of climbing with some quite short but steep pinches at 10-18%.
Come prepared with two water bottles, tyre repair tools and snacks for a long ride. The coffee stop is toward the second half of the ride at about the 60km mark. In warmer months managing food and water intake will be important as the there are some quite exposed sections to sun.
NOTE: The RWGPS map is NOT correct.
Distance: 98.00
Elevation Change: 1400
Ride with GPS
Check public transport alerts: www.transportnsw.info/alerts#/metro-train
Risk warning
As a participant in this dangerous recreational activity, you may be exposing yourself to a significant risk of harm.
Bike North, the ride organisers and leaders wish to warn you of the risks and hazards that are an inherent part of cycling,
and to take care to prevent putting yourself, your fellow participants and/or others into danger.
By registering for this ride, you accept the warning as to risk, and you agree to ride in a safe and responsible
manner and to obey all road rules and other legal requirements.
All riders wear an approved helmet and carry water, at least one spare tube plus a pump.
Health Warning
Riders must not attend if sick, have Covid-19, influenza or symptoms of any communicable disease.
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