CycleCALDERDALE

The Bronte mountain bike challenge is a highly regarded event annual which has a route suitable for all standards of mountain bike and cyclo-cross rider. This will be the 10th Bronte Mountain Bike Challenge in this, the year when the Tour de France Grand Depart will pass our start finnish area and even share a small section of our route. All entry fees go straight to Sue Ryder’s care. There is no obligation to raise additional funds through sponsorship but we certainly are grateful to those who do.

The Routes Our three routes, Charlotte, Emily and Anne take their names from the three Bronte Sisters who were inspired in their writing by the stunning and challenging landscape that the routes navigate. Charlotte A 27 mile extreme challenge route - following the very popular new route used in 2013. Riders tackle the notorious ‘stairs’ and goes over the moors to Widdop, towards Worsthorne and back via a brand new section of the Pennine Bridleway and then descend the ‘stairs’. . Emily This is the same new intermediate route of 23 miles which was very popular in 2013.

The route goes over the moor to Widdop then to Shuttleworth Pasture, historic Wycoller and back via Stanbury (taking in 2 miles of the Tour de France Route). It is a challenging mix of tracks, trails and minor roads, but not as intense as the Charlotte.

Anne A beginner’s ride of less rugged terrain, approximately 11 miles and takes in Haworth, Cullingworth and Harecroft. A scenic loop from Oxenhope towards Haworth and Harecroft, mainly on minor roads but there are some tracks. Suitable for the family and younger children, but under 11’s must be accompanied by an adult.

All participants receive a medal, a complementary water bottle from our sponsors Walkers Chartered Accountants and a well earned complementary hot meal at the finish. This year the finish is right back at the start in Oxenhope Recreation Ground and there will also be our own bar within Oxenhope Community Centre.