Footloose in the Foothills is one of the great Bike North rides.

Starting at Windsor, the ride explores the Grasslands area before heading over to Richmond and starts climbing to Kurrajong Heights. My first experience of it was with Gerrit Hagen, although other ride leaders have led the ride, the most recent occasion  being led by Trevor Nash.

Due to flooding a few years back, the original route around the Grasslands has been truncated but the views as you head up to Kurrajong Heights are still incredible. A few years back, our group of mid week retirees pulled in for coffee to find a group of about 20 people of similar ages, who had made the trip in their village bus. They were amazed when they heard we have ridden bikes!

The return to Windsor involves some enjoyable country roads, including the odd challenging descent.

Whether you are a fit rider on the latest carbon bike, or using an e-bike, this is a ride worth doing.

Terry O'Halloran