My wife has decided to give this bike packing lark a go. I'd like to try something thats likely to have OK weather (it means I can carry less kit) and have come across the Gravel dash at the end of May.

Is it suitable for a first timer (the 2 day 50+50 option) ?

Never been but it looks great! I'm checking my time off......

Did the 100 last year - it rained for about half the ride so good weather not guaranteed. Not very gravelly in places either, but a good route and great fun.

Have done the 50/50 a couple of times. Its great.

If not been to Purbecks, then worth it for that as a very pretty area with lots to look at. Route follows the coast for a bit which is stunning. Riding isnt technical at all, apart from a couple of places. Takes in most of the classic Purbecks trails. That part of the south coast seems to have own micro climate, so even if wet, its very mild.

The overnight camp is a field with a big fire, a bit of woodland and a long drop in the corner. The food is excellent. Think Venison wrapped in nettles and wild garlic slow cooked in a pit for 12 hours. A pleasant evening sat round the fire chatting.

People doing it are all very friendly and as its a set route, there are plenty of people to chat to on the way round. Route passes several pubs for refreshment on the way and most people stop for a pint at each.

Try and get into the Square and Compass in Worth Matravers on Friday night. One of the best pubs in the country

Yeah, it's an amazing ride. Tough in places, but what's the worst that can happen... you just get off and push for a bit.

That's me and a pal signed up. Heading down from West of Scotland in case anyone needs a lift.

Dave

Myself and a friend are going, and it will also be our first bikepacking experience. We did the bikemonger bimble in 2016 which was also around the purbecks over one day. Lovely route and we had a right laugh drinking with Charlie and a few other really friendly participants that night. Can’t wait!

I am planning to ride the 50/50, although it might be my first outing after 2 months off the bike.

Yes
Did this last year
Good fun.
Hilly first day, flat second.
Take hardly anything. You will probably have a hangover.
Good food.
Beware the long cut.

Well, this has come around quick, I feel mightily unprepared!

Also booked for Markus Stitz on the Friday night - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/markus-s ... ehomesaved

Anyone else going?

Yup, 2 of us heading south from Argyll, talk as well. Ideally I'd like to hammock but doubt I'll be quick enough to bag a hang.

Weather looks ok, dry but windy.

I am and so is pickers. And the talk.

Yep, I'll be there for the 3rd time. Totally suitable for a first timer.

I’ve managed to swing it so I can get there early on Friday. I wish I had bought tickets for Marcus Stitz now but he’s sold out.
Looking forward to the ride. This fine weather has ended the tent or tarp dilemma.