South Downs Way Toughest Climbs | Up to Firle Beacon

[@robertgivens6551]

That hill is not too bad if you are starting at Southease, but I have found it to be quite hard going; when coming along the SWD from the Brighton area, the last time I rode up it age had caught me up and left me a wheezing old wreck for a while. If you want a good downhill ride follow the SDW to Bo Peep car park, then head downhill towards Seaford via Blackstone Bottom and Bullock barn it is about 3 miles downhill and fast, just need to be careful across the golf course.

[@themuddycyclist]

Thanks for the riding tip. It’s certainly a climb that will punish you after a long day in the saddle.

[@alanthompson3430]

Well done 👏 Great views can you park near the bridge ?

[@themuddycyclist]

Yes you can, best to approach from Piddinghoe Road.

[@mikegill1037]

Killer hill. Not too steep that it's impossible but energy sapping and the final slog to the gate seems never ending 🥴

[@themuddycyclist]

It’s the false ending that gets me, but as you say, it’s not impossible.

[@southdownsman804]

Never mind the mountain biking, you should have a career in the film industry! Or perhaps you have a hidden team of camera guys following you? 😀

[@themuddycyclist]

Busted 😉

[@garethbriggs1176]

Must be even harder having to go back for your camera!!!

[@themuddycyclist]

It’s a nightmare, need someone creative to hold the camera. Any ideas who?

[@alaindegroot3553]

What gear set would you recommend to cycle the whole SD? My bike is a 1x12 but I was wondering if I should opt for a 2x10 gears. Thank you for guiding me

[@themuddycyclist]

Good question, I’ve never ridden a 1x & though the hills on the SDW are numerous & sometimes long there are few really steep ones. I reckon would be ok at least 90% of the time with a 1x. Might be worth asking on a forum for a more informed opinion.

[@casdavies]

Yes, get a second chainring. Just did it on a sram 1x12 and had to push a few hills every day

[@viralfire]

A 1x12 speed system with a 52t large sprocket has a 520% (widest) gear ratio with a low gear that's lower than any double chainring system. I have used a 1x11 speed Sram drivetrain with a 9-46t cassette and a 32t chainring to do the SDW and never had to push. It maybe your level of fitness that needs attention and not your drivetrain

[@mikegill1037]

Done SDW in day. Firle beacon is just the icing on the cake for tired legs ! Try the SDW climb heading east out if Findon 🥴

[@themuddycyclist]

Wow, in a day, very impressive. I know that climb well, it’s definitely on the list!

[@mikegill1037]

Back in 2007. Much younger and very much fitter 😊

[@mandywatson3981]

"I only recently started mountain biking and really like your vids. I love cycling the South Downs so it would be great if you said a bit more about where you're riding each time."

[@themuddycyclist]

Will do!

[@HallMarc_Trails]

You're quite the natural in front of the camera, another great edit, love the third person shots, nicely done 👍

[@themuddycyclist]

Thanks 🙏

[@Mucker69]

I remember the first time I attempted that climb earlier this year not knowing how long it went on for. Thought my lungs would burst but managed to clean it!🥵

[@themuddycyclist]

😆, it just keeps on giving