THE VERDICT

As I’m sure you’ve deduced by now, if I was invited to sample this adventure again, in a heartbeat I’d shout out an unreserved “Yes!” at full volume. The two days turned out to be fabulous fun, even if the weather could’ve been kinder. I can totally recommend the Northumberland 250. Never mind if, like us, time prevents you completing the whole route, you will not be disappointed. Great biking roads, threading through some spectacular mainland and coastal vistas, are just some of the 250’s numerous attractions. Lots of historical locations, plenty of places to eat, drink and sleep, and plenty of extremely friendly and hospitable people add to the pleasure of it all. Despite my pre-ride concerns, the bikes provided more than enough pace to enjoy the whole adventure. After we’d adjusted our ambitions and expectations, their more moderate performance turned out to be therapeutic. It was really nice to relax, take it easy, and absorb the attractions we rode through. And the longdistance trial got a big thumbsup, too. Testing in places, it’s the most easy-going, highly welcoming and laid-back competitive event I’ve ever taken part in. I didn’t meet a single officious or egotistical person. It’s a great advert for the human race. I’m dead keen to return next year and do it again. Despite the weather throwing just about everything at us that the weatherman could predict, we stayed as warm and cozy as could be possible when out in the wilds of Northumberland, thanks to Bikerheadz and the variety of Bering, Rukka, Schuberth, Scorpion and Falco products that we wore.

More details can be found at www.bikerheadz.co.uk