• Well first off you’ll need a bike! This can be anything from a Honda XR125 to a BMW R1200 GS Adventure, but choose your ride according to your skill level. The real joy of trail riding and green laning comes from taking your everyday bike somewhere entirely different and where you never thought it could go.
• Bear in mind that the green lanes are classed as roads so your machine must be fully road legal, taxed, MOT’d, insured and you must hold an appropriate driving licence.
• A good pair of motorcycle boots, waterproof ideally. These should be strong enough to protect your feet, ankles and shins from rocks and tree stumps… and possibly your bike falling on top of you! Motocross boots are ideal.
• You’ll also need a sturdy motorcycle jacket, trousers and gloves with all the armour in the relevant places. Textile gear is preferable to leathers (you’ll never get them clean again!) to protect you from overhanging branches, brambles and the inevitable tumble.
• A few essential tools and some basic knowledge to carry out any running repairs necessary to your own bike as we go. An AA or RAC Membership card is also sometimes also useful!
• Carrying some water is also a good idea – trail riding can be very strenuous, especially if it’s your first time, and you can easily become dehydrated
• Bring a camera! There’s some lovely spots out there and plenty of opportunity to take some great shots.
• It’s always worth carrying a freezer bag or two to act as waterproof cases for wallets, phones, cameras or anything else you need to keep dry.
