The Manchester to Liverpool bike ride 2013 saw the addition of a new road route that covered almost 60 miles. I have completed the route along the Manchester ship canal on a number of occasions so the new road route was a new challenge and something different.
As always the Manchester to Liverpool Bike Ride 2013 started at Salford Quays where a host of eager cyclists awaiting the 8am start in the glorious sunshine. This ride has been voted one of the top bike rides in the UK and for those who have completed know why.
The route takes riders west through Stretford and Urmston until we reach Lymm where the two routes split. For those taking the shorter route the ride follows the Trans Pennine Trail towards Warrington and on to Liverpool.
The new road route saw me and a host of other riders head north over the toll bridge on the Manchester Ship Canal towards the Village of Cultcheth and on to Ashton on Makerfield. The route then carried on towards Kirby then turned south towards Liverpool.
The 60 mile road route of the Manchester to Liverpool Bike Ride 2013 then joined the shorter route riders for the last climb and the downhill towards the finish line at Otterspool Park on the banks of the Mersey.
I have to say that it was a thoroughly enjoyable ride and I would recommend the 60 mile route for those who want to push themselves. The route was relatively flat with two climbs that also offers some great downhills.
It took in some lovely countryside on some quiet country roads making it a joy to be out on my bike on the lovely summers day. The Manchester to Liverpool Bike Ride 2013 was a great success and I will defiantly be signing up for it next year.