South West Coastal path advice

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sam pig 03 Jun 17:09  

Joined: 03 Jun 2011

Posts: 2

Bike:

Hi All,

Wondering if anyone could advise on the potential for cycling along the South West Coast path from Porthleven along to Mullion Cove down to the Lizard Point and then up to Coverack before heading inland to the Helford River where I intend to get the Ferry across and head back to Falmouth..

I am heading down to the area as part of my Research dissertation on tourism and am a forty "something" relatively fit individual with a folding Dahon multi-terrain bike but to be honest, the tyres are more aimed at commuting. I am wondering if it is feasible to use the coast path or should I head inland and use the A roads between destinations?

Perhaps I should invest in more suited tyres before committing? I have plenty of mapping and know the area quite well from family holidays but do not want to get caught out and suddenly feel ill prepared particularly on one day which will include a cycle from Falmouth to Helston (A and B roads) and then down to Porthleven and pretty much around the whole of the Lizard Peninsula (prob about 60 mile day over varying terrain)

Any local knowledge would be greatly appreciated..

Thanks

JP

CoastPathchap 04 Jun 11:11  

Joined: 04 Jun 2011

Posts: 1

Bike:

Hi,
I know this bit of Coast Path well (and also have a Dahon), and you tried to cycle it, you'd end up pushing / carrying your bike most of the way. In lots of places the path is narrow and uneven, with lots of steps.
You'd be much better off either using the National Cycle network routes - see http://www.sustrans.org.uk/sustrans-near-you/south-west/cornwall or sticking to the minor lanes.
Assuming you stay on road / cycle routes I think sticking with your commuting tyres would be best. More nobbly off-road tyres have much drag / rolling resistance and will slow you down.
Have fun,
Mark