Adventure awaits in the Wellington Region for you and the whole family.
Whether you are in need of something to do in the weekend or school holidays, the team at Cycle Science have you covered with these super adventure suggestions that are great for the whole family. With the rides covering all ages from tots to adults and all ability levels from beginner to advanced.
Get your bike and escape in to the big outdoors now!
HUTT VALLEY RIVER TRAIL
Located just North of Wellington in the Hutt Valley, is a destination just waiting to be explored. The Hutt Valley River Trail starts at Hikoikoi Reserve in Petone and travels all the way to Upper Hutt on a marked out River track, purposely built for walkers and cyclists.
This is the perfect destination if your wanting to escape the big city and get out for a scenic ride in the wider Wellington Region. The trail stretches 29km from Petone to Upper Hutt and is mostly flat making it the perfect ride for the whole family. If you're feeling ambitious, follow the track all the way to the Rimutaka Incline Trail which takes you across to the Wairarapa.
PENCARROW LIGHTHOUSE COAST ROAD TRACK
Located at the end of Eastbourne is a track that is blocked off to general public car traffic. If you're wanting a safe ride for the whole family, that is coastal, this ride is perfect for you. This relatively easy 20km ride will take about 2-3 hours return. If taking young ones, double check the weather and head winds as the gusts make the ride a bit harder. Take a picnic and fluids and make a day trip of the adventure.
You will see sea birds, plant life and goats in the hillside. Your adventure starts and ends at the gate entrance at the end of the designated carpark.
RIMUTAKA RAIL TRAIL, UPPER HUTT
Located just North of Lower Hutt via State Highway 2 in Kaitoke, Upper Hutt is the Rimutaka Rail Trail. The Rimutaka Rail Trail is an expansive track that runs 18km from Kaitoke to Cross Creek. This trail is gravel with a small increase in gradient making it popular with runners, walkers and cyclists as the track is of an easy difficulty level this makes it fun for everyone.
Start the trail at the Kaitoke Gate and follow the gravel road all the way to the summit. Follow the same trail back to the gate where you started. The total trip will take around 2-4 hours depending on speed and stops.
The Trail has amazing features that you do not want to miss. You'll see restored railway bridges and historic tunnels. Take a backpack with snacks and hydration to enjoy a whole day filled with fun.
CYCLING ESSENTIALS TO PACK
Bag - Bags are a great way to carry all of your cycling essentials whilst you ride. The easiest way to carry everything you need is via a backpack. Cycle Science stocks a range of sizes and brands including Camelbak, Evoc and Basil.
For a day ride our team do not recommend a backpack bigger than 30L just for comfort however, if you do require something larger we have you covered with a range of options such as pannier bags.
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Nutrition & Hydration - This is crucial when going out cycling and makes the adventure day more fun. Nutrition such as sachets, electrolytes, energy bars and more provides fuel to keep you going whilst out riding.
Hydration is vital for the whole family as it helps to keep energy levels up and increase performance. When going out for a ride always ensure you have water for the whole family. These can be topped up with hydration tablets to replenish electrolytes lost throughout your exercising day.
Our team suggests packing both of these key items as they make a huge difference in your day to day riding.
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Gloves - Gloves are an optional extra when out cycling making them not essential but desirable. Gloves provide protection from the elements, especially during those cold winter months. They also help to soak up sweat that may be produced when cycling or eliminate rain on hands to allow a tight grip of the handlebar to be maintained at all times. Gloves make a long adventure day more comfortable.
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Outer Layers - Even on a sunny day whilst out riding, it is always good to ensure you carry an extra layer to ensure your protected from all elements, in case the weather changes. Ensuring you have good layering helps you not only stay warm but also dry whilst on your fun family adventure.
Our team recommends a base layer, to keep the body insulated whilst removing any sweat that may be produced, an insulation layer to keep you warm on colder days and on top, a waterproof or windproof layer depending on the forecast to keep you protected from the elements such as wind or rain.
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Puncture Repair Kits - If you have ever been out riding and found yourself with a puncture you'll know they are not very fun. Always ensure you have a puncture repair kit to be able to fix the tube or carry a new tube that can be easily changed whilst mid adventure.
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