GOT THE GRIT FOR A
For 2027 a big change for the Manc Challenge. Slightly longer at 70 miles but the payback for that is the pleasure of being kept company by the Mad and Classic riders until the routes begin to diverge in Oldham.
Oh yes, you read that right, 2027 takes the Challenge back up Werneth Low. Either enjoy or endure the closed road here and don’t forget to grimace or smile for the spectators and photographers.
At Saddleworth we change our ride company to those friends we have on the Northern Quarter, who we accompany back to Bowlee through Rochdale and Heywood.
£45.00 Early Bird
Please note that the route is subject to change.
The 112 KM route
The three longer rides remain together until Greenfield. heading out on a flat, mainly downhill route, past Heaton Park, towards Salford and right through the iconic Salford Quays where you will pass Media City, Lowry Theatre, Imperial War Museum and Old Trafford.
Then, staying on the flat across South Manchester, you will enjoy sweeping swiftly through the leafy suburbs of Cheadle Hulme and Woodford to our first feed station in Poynton, courtesy of and with thanks to the good people of Poynton.
We then sweep up over to Marple Bridge before meeting our old friend, the closed road KoM/QoM section up the short, but very steep Werneth low climb, affording you a sensational view of Manchester and a panorama of the hills to the Northeast and North – enjoy that view!
Here our second feed station awaits courtesy of the wonderful Chef and Brewer Hare and Hounds Inn – who kindly let us use their facilities. On another day you’d stop here and enjoy a beer and their great food, but not today.
After a quick “light” refreshment stop, you’ll head through Tameside and several climbs around Saddleworth, passing through Uppermill hills before a long steady climb to the third feed station at the fine and stately Saddleworth Hotel. Here you can enjoy great food (including scones) and coffee whilst taking in another great view.
On departing the Saddleworth Hotel grounds, you’ll traverse the moor to Newhey, down into Rochdale and heading southwest towards Heywood returning home via Bamford Road .