Starting and ending in Garstang, Lancashire, this �torturous 166-mile cloverleaf-shaped route� is almost endlessly hilly with over 18,500 feet (over 5500 metres) of ascent through the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. First trailblazed by �nine foolhardy riders� in 2011, the Bowland Badass has now been opened up to the general public although organisers are at paints to point out that this is: �not just a sportive; it is a largely self-supporting challenge ride� so don�t expect mech or sag wagons, medical assistance, chip timing or finishers medal, t-shirt or memento. On the flip side for a mere �10 you get route details, some ad-hoc food and drink via two mobile units, insurance and the satisfaction of taking part in a truly gnarly ride. The sense of humour, adventure and camaraderie is hugely evident on the event website and if 2012 goes well for the Badass � and Cyclo�s sure it will � this could well become a mighty and regular fixture, featuring on all cyclist�s �must do� lists. Further details and event entry at www.bowlandbadass.com
