Great mountain biking on the Sussex South Downs
Mountain biking on the Sussex South Downs is a great activity for all the family. Depending on the ages and stamina of your children, it is possible to cycle up to Ditchling Beacon from either Brighton in the south or Ditchling, which is just at the foot of the Downs.
Alternatively, you can negotiate the train with your bikes, getting off at Hassocks, on the London to Brighton mainline route; or for a less green option, load your bikes on the back of your car and head for the car park at Ditchling Beacon, just north of Brighton. (Be prepared to pay a nominal parking fee to the National Trust Attendant.)
There, the views stretch for miles around.
From Ditchling Beacon, cycle a couple of miles east along the South Downs Way to Blackcap, just outside Lewes; if you want a more challenging run, continue towards Eastbourne. Or, go west to Devil's Dyke (about 4/5 miles) and further, to Chanctonbury Ring. If you'd like to cycle the whole of the South Downs Way, you'll need to plan your trip carefully and use a good route map - try our detailed sections of the Harvey's map of the South Downs Way Alternatively, just enjoy the mile and a half run along to the Jack and Jill windmills - a lovely easy route for families with younger kids. Jack Mill is privately owned, but Jill Mill has been fully restored by a team of dedicated volunteers and is now in full working order. You can even purchase a bag of freshly ground organic Sussex flour on Visitor Open Days! It's a fascinating place to explore and is usually open between 2-5pm most Sundays from May through to September.

If you don't want to go mountain biking off-road, then it's possible to follow the route of the London to Brighton Bike Ride and simply cycle from Ditchling up and over the Beacon, across the Downs and then on to Brighton. Depending on your stamina and whether you stay on your bike all the way, the journey should not take more than about 30-40 minutes from Ditchling - maybe an hour for the less fit!
Sussex mountain biking group
Visit the Sustrans biking site - this also has a useful map and information on cycling the South Downs Way
Need a new bike or biking kit? Check here first for reasonably priced mountain biking gear.
Check out these safety suggestions:
Always wear a well-fitting helmet - helmets are cool!
Ensure that someone knows where you're planning to cycle and try to let them know if you change your route.
Don't forget your repair kit!
A mobile phone, plenty of water and a basic First Aid kit are sensible things to take, particularly if you're planning a trip of several hours or more.
Check out your brakes before setting off - you'll need several low gears and good brakes on the downhill sections.
Ride downhill under control - there are some pretty steep, slippery and stony slopes in the Downs.
Be aware of other Downlands visitors - ramblers, horse riders, cyclists and kids - slow down and leave plenty of room especially if you approach from behind.
In poor visibility, always put your lights on and wear reflective clothing.
Remember the cyclist's Country Code:
Keep to Bridleways, Byways and special cycle routes.
Carry a map, especially if you're planning quite a long run.
Take care not to do anything that could start a fire.
Close and fasten all gates.
Don't damage wildlife, plants, crops or trees and leave all livestock and machinery alone.
Take your litter home with you.
Mountain biking links:
Cuckmere cycle hire, located in the Seven Sisters Country Park
Mountain Biking Britain
Evans Bikeshop, Brighton
Wiggle
Chain reaction
Trek bike
Orange bikes, England
Hot wheels
Specialized bikes
Ridgeback
Bicycle-adventures.com Great bicycle adventures with additional information about countries, mechanics, do's and do'nts and much more. Stories about cycling in China, Laos, Thailand, India, Pakistan, Turkey and many more.

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