Am I up to this? A perennial question. If you don't try it, you'll never know.

Pace
I’ve been riding bikes for 30+ years. I’ve been riding these actual roads on and off throughout this period. Therefore, I pick the routes I consider to be good, and I’m able to make good progress along these.

I don’t choose easy routes.

I think straight lines are boring. Some people (Americans, on Harleys) and novice riders have not always enjoyed these choices. From time to time, I’ve needed to send some guests on an alternative motorway route as they were not happy on the little back roads of Strines Moor for example. Therefore, if you’ve just passed your bike test just two weeks ago and don’t feel confident, then this trip may not be for you.

I TRY and cater for the whole group’s needs, but it isn’t always easy - especially if I get a group of riders ranging from novice to boy racer to seasoned World Traveller.

To pinch a phrase from a Kiwi customer, "sometimes, it must be like herding cats Bill?", oh yes, I couldn't have put that better myself.

If you are aspiring to ride to The Alps, then this weekend trip is a good try out. The Hardknott pass is actually harder than anything we ride in the Alps. So, if you enjoy this weekend, cover the distance OK and eat up the twisties, you’ll relish the high Alps. If you really don’t like the Lake District – then forget the Alps - and consider buying a Cruiser.