Halloween Stormy 29r Boot Zipper Bicycle ride, Off Road in search of Ancient Tombs.

Just keeping my cycling legs in trim as I hope to do more Bike packing and Wild camping adventures soon:)
This time I head out on a new bike for me, an "On One Bootzipper" 29r bicycle. It's a good bike for a bit of adventure riding and has super low gears for climbing up steep hills.
It came to my attention recently that there was a Neolithic Chamered long barrow not very far from my home on the outskirts of Swindon. This Longbarrow is not very well known about and has not been completely excavated but whilst farm workers were putting in a fence the cut straight through the barrow and discovered 4 complete skeletons!
Well it is Halloween after all but unlike a lot of Halloween videos this one is sadly quite true!

[@EvolveOutdoors]

We are never forgotten, as we are all recorded in The Book of Life. This physical body form is temporary, and of the World.

[@WiltshireMan]

The physical body sure is temporary thats for certain, but it's a tool to be used to enable us to live and experience this lovely creation

[@alanhanley9515]

Hey Sandy, you've bought my bike! I have a stack of fork bags, cages etc (Podsacs) from On One that fit this bike and their seat pack. You are more than welcome to them if kitting out this bike for bikepacking. Just contact me and I'll se d them to you. Great vid as ever, a delight. And as you say, there is a great comfort in being forgotten, because it humbles and grounds you, because ultimately nature rules and we will all be forgotten, just spend your existence wisely.

[@WiltshireMan]

Alan Let me know how much you would like and maybe we can do a deal, that's very kind of you to offer them to me. You should be able to find my contavt details on the home page to this channel. Thanks Sandy

[@RobertsBulgaria]

Well, lest we may forget, but you are leaving a very worthwhile legacy on KZbin for future generations to view. Imagine if there had been digital cameras and Saxon Tube or Roman Tube etc, for us to watch today. Keep safe and keep pedalling right on to the end of the road.

[@hawk2million]

It still amazes me we're allowed to go into these old long barrows. Some of them are soooo old, you'd think they'd be all fenced off like Stonehenge. Thanks for the great video and congrats on the new iron horse!

[@pattyfarghaly1821]

The woodland is stunning. Thanks for taking us along.

[@johnmunro5983]

Thanks Sandy, Another scenic and educational trip into the Wiltshire countryside which you do so well.. As long as people such as yourself keep making these videos, those ancients wont be forgotten. . I have been to the Smithy on a trip to Swindon many years ago , but did not know about the second Long Barrow you visited. Now I know, Thanks mate , Stay well , 73

[@billdunham1913]

Thanks Sandy. One of your very best. Like the new bike and your attitude to life and the passing of ages. Keep those big wheels turning.

[@garycook5837]

Thanks Sandy, great to learn something new today, though it’s stormy your out there storytelling and on a new bicycle 👍

[@davidtomkinson1570]

Once those who knew or loved you are dead, then it's as though you never were. Like shadows on old photographs we become. Lovely video. I find the old barrows fascinating. Thank you.

[@philshepherd90]

Thanks for a great vlog. I was born in near Marlborough and can remember all the wide open scenery in your area. I remember climbing Silbury Hill when I was a kid. Love the new bike, looks perfect for you. I’m shore we all love traveling with you on you journeys. Thanks. Phil. 🇬🇧

[@smallandy75]

Welcome to the “On One” family 👊🏼

[@nigelhammond8417]

Parts of the English countryside are called downland because they are characterized by rolling chalk hills, often with a covering of short grass. These hills are called "downs," a word derived from the Old English word "dūn," meaning "hill."

[@peterbell5556]

Sandy. Those people are not forgotten. You have remembered them. You made us remember them. Really enjoyed it . Thank you from NZ

[@WiltshireMan]

Thats a nice thought Peter, as individuals their names are now long forgotton, but perhaps the consciousness that we have was exactly the same as they had, I'd put money on it, the only thing that would be different would be the life experience

[@welshrambler1893]

Interesting and informative video Sandy, well done! You certainly gave the new bike a good trial and it's amazing how good it is on rough ground especially when you are holding the camera and have just one hand on the handlebars. I've really enjoyed your cycling videos and although I haven't cycled for over 40 years it has inspired me to buy a folding bike and have a go again. Regards Keith

[@WiltshireMan]

Welldone Keith you'll benefit from cycling. I also have a folding bike

[@SharpblueCreative]

That area I walked as a kid when dad took us up there. I lived at Liddington Warren before we moved to Upham. This area is embedded in my memories from my childhood. Baydon, Liddington, Upham & Aldbourne- all my memories of growing up before we moved to Chilton Foliat in 1977.

[@WiltshireMan]

You'll have to get a bike and goback and revisit those places Mark

[@createdezign1840]

I knew you couldn't resist the pull of a new bike. Wont be long before the wife is on your back because of the lack of space for the "collection". ;) lol Nice you see the passion develop, doesn't make me feel so bad about my addiction...Errrr.... Passion now. :)

[@MrBeracah]

Beautiful scenery sandy thanks for sharing

[@richardulrich6089]

I'm a believer in mudguards, it's makes simple things so much nicer. It looks a beautiful part of the country to cycle through. And cycling is the best form of transport with so many positives and very few, if any, negatives.

[@WiltshireMan]

Spot on Richard, there are not many negatives to cycling, virtually all positives

[@DanOpdal]

Thank you for sharing your adventure! Cheers!

[@bushlore21]

Very Nice bike Sandy!! Keep em coming! Enjoyed this!! 👍

[@alanjohnson9171]

Late to the video. I really enjoyed it. Cheers 🍻 Lest we forget was a nice touch. It's sad in one way we now all have to rely on technology. But from another point of view absolutely everything is now documented so we're all part of history. Great video keep up the great work 👍🍻😁

[@WiltshireMan]

Hi Alan, Yes everything becomes history in time but there is a worrying trend that some folk are possibly trying to change some aspects of more recent history. I believe it's really important to keep historical facts as accurate as possible as that is the way going forward that we will learn from previous successes, and mistakes!

[@MadDogSurvival]

Excellent! Very interesting again. Great looking bike! Yes your absolutely correct least we forget! And I agree it’s about the journey not the destination! Just like life’s journey. I would have thought the barrow would have been listed on the land owners deeds? So it’s surprising they put a fence through it! But like you said I guess it’s natures way of moving on as we are all forgotten about. Take care on your journeys mate. Very best wishes Sandy 👍🏻👍🏻😎👌🏽

[@paulhunt1072]

Just watched this one again Sandy. Lovely video!! Really nice commentary. Im sure you get your own series on tv.

[@DavidWilliams-nb4eh]

One thing you forgot sandy....God doesn't forget us...HE made us and HE knows everything about us, we are not animals we are Human beings, whilst we forget..HE who made us never does....Nice video! And i like the bike, I have two mountain bikes, a Saracen Dirtrax which i have had since 2005 ish, and a Claud Butler which i purchased Brand New in 2010 and i rode it once ...and it's still as brand new. I fitted carrying frames on both and also mud guards which in my view are essential. When are you going to incorporate some Amatuer Radio in these excellent videos? By the way...i used to incorporate my ham radio hobby with the cycling, i remember once riding down a dirt track in the middle of no-where ...actually speaking to a guy in a ham club in Bombay India...and he told me the hams there were fascinated that i was actually riding my bike at the time! Happy days! My Call sign is G4UNB 73 !

[@grahamcrighton8113]

I bought a Bootzipper last year fitted some Jones bars… great bike for day rides and expeditions!

[@si7777777]

Another fab video! Taken on an adventure, taught some history, shown some beautiful scenery. Love the new bike :) Thank you, and keep making these brilliant videos!

[@WiltshireMan]

Thankyou:)

[@davebarney3369]

Glad I’m not the only one that falls off! Mind you, I’d have been off about ten times, it’s tricky in the wet up the Ridgeway. Nice bike, Sandy 👍

[@jameswalksinhistory3848]

Cool as ever Sandy- I really enjoyed this small adventure 👍

[@WiltshireMan]

Thanks James, some nice history here:)

[@tonypatey5669]

Well that was quite the journey, I liked it with the stories to go with the scenery , well done Sandy. Editing was time consuming I would imagine. That definitely was a 29 incher ride, love the bike and colour of it . I could only imagine what it would be like to have a metal detector and get a chance to turn over some earth while out there. Very enjoyable video to watch and good to see allis well after your little spill. Thanks for sharing. Tony.

[@stephencorkery5351]

As always very enjoyable Thanks

[@bumbleo8993]

You kept that one quiet sandy. Lovely bike and ideal for adventurers to come. 🤗

[@simonwiltshire]

Great video sandy, beutiful countryside nice philosify too. I wrecon you got a good bike there mate, that will carry everything you need with good comfort, i'm looking forward to seeing lot's more videos. Take care and thanks.

[@marcomcdowell8861]

Thank you for the history lesson. I learned something new today! I know most Americans won't admit it, but the history of the UK is a part of our history as well. It's always fascinating to hear the origins of names, terms and traditions that are a part of the American fabric that no one considers.

[@AdventureandMore]

Great video again Sandy however lesson learned never say it’s easy incase the big fella in the sky hears you and throws you instantly off you bike that made me chuckle

[@WiltshireMan]

Haaha, it's funny how it happened just as I opened my big mouth:)

[@AdventureandMore]

@@WiltshireMan comedy gold Sandy but glad you didn’t hurt yourself

[@Gunslinger-1962-martin]

I'm lost for words sandy , you've just blown me away with your historical knowledge , we'll all get visited one day , but for how long after , we'll never know 🙌👍 looking forward to your watch this space ( sneaky camp ) 👌 happy new wheels 🙌 you'll need to build a bike shed shortly 😊 🙈👍

[@WiltshireMan]

I've been doing some reading on local history and the barrows Martin, it is all very interesting stuff. Weather turning colder now, soon be time for another hot tent camp I reckon:) Yes the old bike collection is growing, really enjoying the cycling and the old legs are getting stronger too

[@neilwilkinson5415]

Great film Sandy. I love the stealthy colour of your new bike. Funnily enough I was out visiting the West Kennet long barrow at Avebury on the same day you were out on your Neolithic adventure. I look forward to seeing you out doing some more bike packing adventures soon on the new bike.

[@WiltshireMan]

I've not been to the West Kennet long barrow for a while, I'll have to go back there:)

[@DesmondsDonders]

Love this video Sandy. Yes everyone is forgetting the ancestors. Halloween and All Hallows is now just another excuse to shop and consume. Like the look of that bike probably best not to fall off on Demo LOL

[@WiltshireMan]

Haa, I should not have said iot was "Easy" the I wouldn't have come a cropper:). It's a shame they have disturbed the resting places of these long forgotton folk Dave, they should have left them alone as a mark of respect I reckon.

[@williamk9490]

I only feel really alive when I am out in the open countryside like you, I am 69 and I agree with your comment about us all being forgotten eventually, its natural, we are eventually all recycled as elements in nature

[@WiltshireMan]

Yes it does make me feel alive too, there's nothing quite like it:)

[@BeercanBushcraft]

That was a cracking video Sandy. All the best to you and yours 👍 👍 👍 🍻

[@martyjames6204]

wonderful, as always, thanks

[@davidbarnfield9849]

A nice informative video Sandy, some great scenery I enjoy looking at the Wiltshire countryside reminds me of my Military Days stationed in Tidworth - Bulford - Warminster to name few. I really like the new bike I'm Envious mate still paddling around on my 25 yr old Merida mountain bike stuck on second Cog . Dave B. Thailand.

[@davelynoutdoors4277]

Another great video, thanks Sandy

[@joeschenk8400]

Your videos are becoming my Sunday night treat. The fall colors are beautiful and its like that here this year on the east US coast. I find the Neolithic barrows fascinating. The new bike looks great, use it in good health. Thanks for sharing and all your work.

[@BrianthatiscalledBrian]

Thank you again, Sandy. It's a real treat to see the UK, off the main roads like this. 🙂👍🚴‍♂️

[@WiltshireMan]

There's not much chance of being involved in an RTA Brian:)

[@jeffreywinter2660]

Superb as always Sandy, you won't be forgotten.

[@petechampion297]

I like your passage of thought & thinking,. good stuff sir

[@TheRamblingsofBry]

If ya gonna fall off, then long grass is always a good idea. Best long barrow has to be West Kennet in Avebury, I love that place. Really magical. We are all forgotten within 3 generations. Many blessings to you Sandy

[@WiltshireMan]

Thanks Bry, It's a melacholic time of year but in a magical and wonderous way. Death of the old year then a long sleep before all is born anew:)

[@double531]

Nice bike Sandy. Steel as well, good stuff.

[@mrgrizzlyrides]

I really luved this video Sandy. Enjoyable, relaxing, informative, stunning countryside and presented in your inimitable style. Enjoy your new bike, it is a superb piece of kit and I look forward to enjoying more videos like this. Ride safe my friend. Neil

[@WiltshireMan]

Thanks Grizzly:)

[@Celtic-Silver-countryman]

Very informative Sandy, you only have to look in some graveyards at 100-year-old graves to see how they are neglected by living relatives (if they have some).

[@WiltshireMan]

Very trues John there's lots of neglected graves nowadays

[@newforestexplorer]

Another interesting video and that looks the perfect bike for your adventures. You’ll end up with as many bikes as me soon 😅

[@peter236uk1]

I looked at one of those nice bike opted for a trek in the end. Nice bike and video Sandy

[@robhemsley9181]

A really amazing video thought provoking and moving - you sure are a Wiltshire man - not just a Wiltshire man but a man with the spirit of man - my best wishes Rob

[@campfire52]

Congratulations on that wonderful new Bike Sandy, it should provide you with some great transportation possibilities for getting to more nooks and crannies for great adventures. I have never ridden a bike with 29 inch wheels, but, it only makes sense that they would roll much nicer over the rough terrains that you come across. You should be able to squeeze a lot of enjoyment out of that. I am sure that you already have made some plans on how you are going to equip it with some cargo racks and bags and maybe even some lights. We are all looking forward to seeing what you come up with. Thank you for showing it to us my friend, see you on the next one.

[@robandrews9165]

If you can, have a go on a 29er, real game changer from the 26inch wheels 😊 Hello by the way

[@campfire52]

@@robandrews9165 Thank you sir. Hello to you also. And yes, I am going have to take a look (and try) one of the 29's. It appears to be a pretty nice upgrade from the 26.

[@robandrews9165]

@@campfire52 hello! Yes they really are :) I’ve just built one from a scrapped frame, turned out alright as well

[@WiltshireMan]

Hi Terry The 29r rolls well and is very stable and good for rough terrain, but they are a bit heavier and take a bit more effort to get going. Overall there's not much in it but I am enjoying it, I shall still use the old 26'r from time to time, thats a great bike too

[@Shewie01]

Happy new bike Sandy, hope you have lots of great adventures on it. I've had a few PlanetX bikes, always good value with decent spec/components

[@leerobinson8709]

Nice bike Sandy and nice video. Thanks for bring us along.

[@philleeman9177]

Fantastic new bike sandy , it's got me wanting to upgrade lol

[@marcdewilde518]

What a lovely video Sandy!

[@WiltshireMan]

Thanks Marc

[@pshearduk]

A wonderful vlog Sandy

[@GadgetMart]

Great video, nice bike too. I enjoy your adventures

[@billcotton1551]

I love when you explore the historical sites Sandy! Sweet new ride.

[@rickgordongordonellissteel3761]

Lovely video Sandy, really enjoyed this one and learning about the long barrows etc. Thank you.

[@robandrews9165]

An on one! Great bike choice, and love the video too 😊

[@johnpawson7400]

Another great video Sandy, I like how you are doing all different things on your channel. I look forward to seeing them all. Will definitely see you next year again.

[@machoneboard]

Great video Sandy, thanks for posting. Envious of the new bike!

[@Nigellagirl99]

Well what a treat that was ! Interesting journey and history. That’s sure a nice bike for the trip ! Congratulations

[@bcolinranken]

Poignant words there Sandy ….. I fully empathise.. always a pleasure to watch your videos… inspiring as always…

[@barryconway]

Thank you for taking us along with you, W.M.

[@ysgolgerlan]

Thanks for this interesting video, I really enjoyed the scenery and the history. 👍

[@Dave64track]

Great video love the new bike the 29 inch wheels do a great job on that rough terrain. What a lovely cycling area especially down that old track with those stunning views and wood that would be a great place to have a stealth camp. Thanks for showing us these Ancient places I found them really interesting. Keep up the great work and stay safe.

[@batesy4760]

Great video sandy you live in a very interesting part of the country love the new bike it certainly does the job I am looking forward to watching your stealth camp

[@jimrowland6089]

I like the new bike Sandy. I see you decided to check all weather capabilities, all in one day. I have been happy with the 29" wheels on my bike since the first ride. Yours looks like a capable long distance ride.

[@OldBlindDougArtist]

Great video Sandy, I seem to remember a video with you and Funky and some others at the stone tomb .

[@johnmessenger4351]

Great video as usual Sandy. I'm impressed with the network of PROWs you can use in your area. It must be an off-road paradise, especially with all those spectacular views. Nice bike too.

[@oscartravis5740]

Terrific, this vid had a bit of everything. Just love the colours and the hazy light of autumn, I got all the joy of the tour without the grueling exertion! 😀

[@mischef18]

So no plans for trainer wheels then bro, lol. Really enjoyed this video and your commentary too. Sadly no byways or country public trails here only the joining of country towns with cycle/walkways which mainly follow alongside vehicle roads. Some use old railways where the tracks have been removed. Safe travels

[@pedalpetter5865]

Thanks Sandy for another entertaining and infomative Video. Congratulations to your new bike. Looks good to me.😎👍 Greetings from the other side of the channel. 🇩🇪👋

[@grantswheelstohills]

Thanks Sandy, for sharing your trip and your wise thoughts. Really enjoyed it as usual, I take real inspiration from your channel and others. I'm in my mid 50's and just spent three days on Kinder Scout walling around, discretely wild camping and taking it all in. I don't think I would have gone back to these activities if it was like people like you. Take care atb Grant.

[@WiltshireMan]

Thats wonderful Blob, glad your getting some first hand connection with the great outdoors

[@garycowan7445]

Honestly Sandy a really nice video and very thought provoking especially the bit about being forgotten... Very true

[@jonnblue]

Got a few On One bikes myself. Youve also inspired me to gain a motorcycle liscence. MOD2 on Wednesday in Swindon.

[@WiltshireMan]

Goodluck with your bike test Jonn

[@johnfiler6448]

Really informative video Sandy. A well made historical adventure. You are a proud Wiltshire man. Thank you and Stay Safe.

[@victormonster4658]

Great knowledge and love you’ve got for the stunning outdoors Mr W. Can’t beat autumn, keep them coming please 👍

[@WiltshireMan]

Autumn is a lovely season Victor

[@Trekon2]

Fab video Sandy, your right it's about the journey not the destination, and it's great to be able to use the trees as shelter's from the rain and maybe have a brew up until it blows over. The tracks over your way are beautiful and the history combine to encourage you onwards. Your 29r is a great bike and I like the Jones bars, I look forward to you doing a wild camp on it soon👌👋

[@michaelfinn1317]

Thanks for this thoughtful video, this time of year is always tough for many people. I still greatly miss my hillwalking brother, left us in 2013, too soon. Happy cycling on your new bike. In defence of the plain MTB I’m still riding my Trek 4400 (11-32 at the back and 42,32 22 on the chain ring. Gets me along the canal towpaths. Pushing 70 next birthday. I also run mudguards 😅😅😅. Ug

[@WiltshireMan]

Hi Michael, Nothing wrong with whatever bike you have, the main thing is to get outside and ride.

[@garyives1218]

19:58 You gotta love getting that amazing shot of the new bicycle! Very special lighting, and the bird in flight. Well done! Last I saw, Ortlieb had just come out with some nice 3 liter packs with sturdy brackets that mount to fork legs. I have "Bootleggers" by Oveja Negra of Colorado. Nice durable dry packs, very light, that mount direct without bracket to the 3 fork leg eyelets. They state 2 liters and are just capable of squeezing in a Jetboil. Perhaps a bit small, but still very usefull :)

[@r.davies2702]

Single handedly keeping the cycling industry afloat 😉, great choice for what you'll be doing. Yet another well informed video, thanks 👍

[@colinpearce7079]

Hi Sandy,what a brilliant informative & thought provoking video,great knowledge about ancient history & nature,oh & the new bikes not half bad either,just off out for a ride on my Pashley 👍,atb Colin P.

[@SistaJaine]

Lovely bike Sandy ...... I often wonder what Mandy's allowed to treat herself to with all these expensive things you treat yourself to ...haha

[@WiltshireMan]

You will have to wait and see:)

[@fillfar]

Brilliant!

[@deanie557]

Welcome to the 29er club. 😁👍 Interesting video, but may I recommend getting suspension forks put on the front. Makes life SO much easier. 🙂

[@geoff9614]

Really enjoyed that video 100% agree it’s about the journey like your new bike I’ve got a 29er but still enjoy my old 26 inch mountain bike

[@WiltshireMan]

I will still be using my 26 inch mtb also, it's a bit quicker getting up to speed but the 29r rolls just a bit better over the bumps. Not much in it really

[@mrfarty5017]

Great video have a good week. All the best 👍

[@WiltshireMan]

Thanks and you too:)

[@simon6652]

Great video, lovely bike.

[@WiltshireMan]

It is a lovely bike Simon but it isn't a speed machine, more of a plodder

[@smonair2806]

Excellent video as always. Very interesting and beautiful countryside. Half way through I really had to get up and go for a short bike ride to feel the breezy conditions and yes I fell off too but my excuse is the cleated shoes again and starting off uphill. Anyway only pride damaged. Keep up the great videos I really enjoy them.

[@WiltshireMan]

When we ride our bikes we are livin:)

[@hughsmith9401]

a old sgt major used to say your skins water proof boy NICE CHANNEL 😂😂

[@colinmcnally5931]

I absolutely love your videos! You are a man after my own heart!! 29ers are brilliant!! I wont have anything else now. Sadly, my bike has only done 14 miles this year due to poor health. I have ME/CFS and wont be riding again until I beat this thing!! My favourite rides and place in the world is up on the Ridgeways!! Gods own country!! Best way to get and keep fit. Keep up the great vids.

[@WiltshireMan]

I hiope you soon feel better and are able to start riding again Colin, even if it's just a short distance, gentle exercise may help with recovery

[@gavgreen10]

Great video & once you go 29, there's no going back 😊. Coincidentally, I was at West Kennet Long Barrow myself this weekend.

[@WiltshireMan]

I'm impressed by how well the 29r rolls I have to say:)

[@davidj.9587]

Great video again Sandy, as well as the journey of your video, also the music is well chosen. I have a 29er and agree with all what you say about the ability to point it and go. Our front garden is Gods Wonderful Region.

[@WiltshireMan]

The bigger wheel has great stability

[@martinmatthews8177]

Another interesting video Sandy. Tempted to buy a bike with that gearing. Probably a gravel bike though. Sounds like u have been listening to Neil Oliver. Another top man, like yourself. Take care Martin WB

[@WiltshireMan]

Yes Neil Oliver is a Great person. The Boot zipper weighs around 33lb and is not as fast as a gravel bike

[@clivenewton7609]

A breathtaking video and no mistake Sandy, absolutely top draw!! I could almost feel the wind and smell the autumn dampness! If it’s any help the settlement at Knighton Bushes Plantation looks like it’s to the West of the wood on the open downland just off the track, not in the wood itself. Stay safe, kindest regards from deepest Dorset 👍

[@WiltshireMan]

I've looked on the maps Clive and can see some features where you say but not clearly. Often you'll find on the Downs where there's some rough grass, or a corner of rough ground left uncultivated it's because there's something archeological there. A prime example can be found at these coordinates : 51.527427, -1.604759 My feeling is that the wood is the location of the settlement, maybe they kept livestock adjacent in the field because I can just make out a circular shape/enclosure?