1st Time Bikepacking - 80 miles on the Trans Pennine Trail

Join me, a 47-year-old man who’s new to cycling, as I embark on an epic bikepacking journey across the stunning landscapes of Yorkshire and the challenging terrain of the Pennine Mountain Range. With no prior experience in bikepacking or long-distance cycling, I’m setting out to conquer 80 miles of breathtaking views, steep climbs, and unforgettable experiences.
In this video, you'll witness:
The preparations and gear setup for a first-time bikepacker
Scenic routes through picturesque Yorkshire countryside
The trials and triumphs of cycling over the rugged Pennines
Tips and lessons learned from this incredible adventure
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or someone looking for inspiration to start your own journey, come along for the ride and see how age is just a number when it comes to pursuing new passions. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more adventures!
Gear and Resources:
Bike: Trek Marlin 5
Tent: MLD Trailstar
Sleeping Bag: RAB
Cooking Gear: Jetboil
Thank you for watching and supporting my journey! 🚴‍♂️✨

[@pault1289]

Every day is a school day. No shame in not hitting your goal this time, just take the experience and go again. Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@stephenlaidlaw6970]

Thank you for the encouraging words! You're absolutely right - every day is a learning opportunity. I'm taking this as a valuable lesson and I'm already planning my next adventure with more preparation. Thanks for watching and supporting!

[@TheOC1968]

Respect, I started cycling at 48. I remember having to get off and push 3 times just cycling home after dropping my kids at school. 56 this month and still loving it. You've inspired me to give the tpt a go with your fantastic vid. Cheers Pal.

[@stephenlaidlaw6970]

Thank you so much for your kind words! It's incredible to hear about your journey with cycling-starting at 48 and still going strong at 56 is truly inspiring. It’s stories like yours that motivate me to keep sharing my adventures. I'm thrilled my video inspired you to give the TPT a go-it's a fantastic route, and I’m sure you’ll love every bit of it! Keep pedalling and enjoying every moment on the bike. Cheers, and happy cycling, pal! 🚴‍♂️

[@travelingtourers8654]

I've just done Liverpool to Cleethorpes using tpt. Them barriers you kept having to pull your bike through are a proper pain. I did it on an old postie bike, three speed but I had converted it to leccy. Hands up, no way I could have done it without the extra assistance so your not alone. Main thing is your out there living it. Good effort mate!

[@stephenlaidlaw6970]

I've got to see this postie bike you've created. If you've filmed it or have an insta, feel free to add it to the comments. Thank you for watching

[@garys4756]

You attempted it so that's a bonus and no doubt you'll try again and succeed 👍👍.

[@stephenlaidlaw6970]

Thank you so much for the encouragement! You're absolutely right; attempting it was a great experience, and I'm definitely planning to try again with more preparation and better fitness. Stay tuned for my next adventure!

[@andrew277]

Fair play. It does take a while to build up strength and fitness for cycling.

[@stephenlaidlaw6970]

Thank you! It definitely does take time and effort to build up strength and fitness for cycling, but it's been a rewarding journey. I'm glad you enjoyed the video!

[@steveread1798]

Looks like a nice route but can’t see the hills from my armchair 😂, the A shape gates look a pain to navigate though! Great video, just one ride at a time and get fitter each time. PS Can you give some details of the solar/fast charge power pack that you used please.

[@stephenlaidlaw6970]

Not wishing to brag but I'm a 'cycling proficiency " certified rider and A frame barrier negotiations were not part of the silibus! Reg the kit: Fast charger was from amazon and we are very impressed with them: www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09NLZRKZC?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share The temu solar panel: share.temu.com/5ISJlMg0HLA

[@steveread1798]

@@stephenlaidlaw6970 cycling proficiency certified, you smooth talker you! 🤣 Thanks for the info; I will take a look.

[@peterharrington8709]

Enjoyed that... gives a bit of an idea what off road bikepacking is like... and how tough it is to do the miles when fully loaded. No wonder a lot of folk just go with a bivvy and no extra clothes.... or stick to roads and B&Bs... but where is the fun in that eh 😉

[@stephenlaidlaw6970]

Thank you for your comment! I'm glad you enjoyed the trip. It certainly was a tough ride, especially with the steep ascent and heavy load. It really gave me a new appreciation for the challenges of off-road bikepacking. I agree, there's something truly adventurous about going off the beaten path with just a bivvy and minimal gear. While sticking to roads and B&Bs might be more comfortable, the thrill and sense of accomplishment from tackling the rugged terrain are unmatched. Plus, the scenic views and remote spots make it all worth it. Happy trails and safe riding! 🚴‍♂🌄

[@davidlangford6723]

Great attempt and superb footage. I’ll be riding from Stockport to Doncaster on the TPT next week.

[@stephenlaidlaw6970]

@davidlangford6723 glad this effort didn't put you off. Enjoy your route, buddy, and if you film it, pop the link on here for me to have a look at 👍

[@leehirst8081]

Super ride, i recognise some of trails round Barnsley and Sprotbrough, rode there many times.

[@stephenlaidlaw6970]

Thank you! It’s great to hear from someone familiar with the trails around Barnsley and Sprotbrough. They are indeed beautiful and challenging. Even though the trip proved too much for me this time, it was an incredible experience. Hopefully, with more training, I'll be able to tackle it again soon and enjoy the full route. Any tips for a successful ride in those areas?

[@leehirst8081]

@@stephenlaidlaw6970 I'm 54, don't worry about it just enjoy your rides.

[@thegeordiefellwalker8878]

no shame in knowing your limits mate. you'll be fitter for the miles .look at it as unfinished business 🚴💪👍 atb

[@stephenlaidlaw6970]

Thank you for the encouraging words! You're absolutely right; it's all about recognizing our limits and growing from each experience. I'll definitely see this as unfinished business and a step towards getting fitter. Appreciate the support and motivation. All the best!

[@gazman3568]

The thing about lack of fitness is that you can damage yourself overdoing it. Especially ligaments that take forever to get better. So I chose to convert my ancient full suspension mtb to e magic. Only use it when you need it and it makes all the difference when your legs are mullered . I fitted a Yose conversion kit to both my bikes. Both done for a fraction of the cost of cheapest ebike. You won't regret it

[@stephenlaidlaw6970]

Thanks for the advice, @gazman3568! You're absolutely right about the risk of overdoing it and causing long-term damage. Converting my bike to an e-magic setup sounds like a fantastic idea, especially for those tough climbs. I'll definitely look into the Yose conversion kit - it sounds like a great solution to keep the adventure going without compromising my fitness. Appreciate the tip!

[@gazman3568]

@@stephenlaidlaw6970 What made me decide was big hill on a regular circular route. The kind that makes you determined to get to top also the slightest worry that if you are going to collapse and die this will be whe the heart says sod this. So those moments are history. Your cycling range will increase massively and the range the battery supplied in kit last far longer than you could imagine. I bit of head scratching fitting kit but relatively easy and lots of stuff out there to get round any problem. Most tools needed supplied in kit as well. Good luck.

[@saltaireorangebicyclechopp8555]

He's not old, it'd be better for him to slowly build up his miles & fitness then think about an e-bike in......2034.

[@gazman3568]

@@saltaireorangebicyclechopp8555 It's nothing to do with your age its to do with simply range. If your Mr average yep you can get fitter but time constraints and the most precious thing we have is available is free time. Those of us whom don't want to ride skinny tyred racing bikes and push on to get race fit on tarmac whom just want to explore the undulating countryside off road or on ,can cover a huge difference with electric back up. Also when you look at time and realise you have commitments and really need to get a spurt on to get home its easy after many hours riding without assistance to just go electric.

[@saltaireorangebicyclechopp8555]

@@gazman3568l understand what you are saying but for a man of his age it's a quick fix, a bit like a fat jab. I am a plodder, but l get there, across countries, l am 60 and didn't start till l was 40 & fat. I'll definitely get an electric bike but not for many years yet. Having tried them and being a keen rider you haven't mentioned the negative, much increased weight, l don't want to be pedalling that on the flat and l don't need it uphill, yet.

[@shainewinfrow7355]

nice u out stephen

[@stephenlaidlaw6970]

good to be out :)

[@Woodleytrav58]

You don't need to be superman by riding up hills, get off and push.

[@stephenlaidlaw6970]

Thank you for your comment! You're absolutely right-there's no shame in getting off and pushing when the going gets tough. Sometimes, safety and practicality need to take precedence over trying to power through. I appreciate the reminder that it's perfectly okay to take a break and tackle challenges in a way that works best for my fitness level and comfort. Happy riding!

[@saltaireorangebicyclechopp8555]

I can ride a good distance still but when it's late in the ride and you are down to 5/6mph going uphill and knackered, there's no point, get off, push and have a rest.

[@andrew277]

Don’t forget your electrolytes or else your just getting more thirsty

[@stephenlaidlaw6970]

Already in the water bottles, my friend 👍

[@andrew277]

@@stephenlaidlaw6970 oh good