Lakes / Whinlatter Hols Part 2

Its been a year since we were last at Whinlatter Forest, during our Oct hols 2014 it was just far too wet to even think about getting the bikes out of the van. This time the forecast was dry so dragged the two Salsa Carbon Beargrease's (both of 26+" tyres/wheels) and Arrans Scott Carbon scale out of the van. It was Arrans first go on the North red last time so decided to do the South red this time with him. There is a new section of single track after the start to take out some of the forest road. Its very good but its still a good climb right to the top with plenty of deep puddles. The descent off the top down the junction/forest drive needs sorting out - its now well and truly trashed in many places with puddles now over 8-10" deep in places. The second half the descent is excellent and a lot more ride able. The very last section of single track was closed to tree cutting. There was a good old headwind blowing with loads of ice on the trail making it tough going in places.
The blue route was also closed due to all the trees getting the chop. Back to the car park for a quick break before we froze we headed off to do the North red.
The very start of the North red/blue was also closed as the have just resurfaced it but the rest of the route was open. The sun decided to come out and there was more shelter from the wind on this side of the pass. The puddles were draining better as they have cut a channel out to drain the surface water out of them. Its still a good ride around and Arran was flagging on the last few climbs but still had a good ride. The best part id the last section of open switch backs heading back down to the road.
The fat bikes are still great fun around the routes but the Nate on the rear did not provide as much grip on the icy/wet slate rocks as I thought it would. Angus said his rear 45nrth Dillinger was not too bad and was handling ok.
Back to car park to get changed into warm clothing as the wind was making it feel very cool to say the least. There is also a new second overflow car park now open which is not sign posted and everyone was driving around in circles looking for a space on the top two car parks. A quick look around Cyclewise & the visitor centre and we were off.