The Solstice 100
A challenging off-road adventure

June 22nd, 2024, Northampton, Northants

What is the Solstice 100?

This is a 100 mile (or a shorter 50 mile) mountain bike/gravel sportive that takes place close to the Summer Solstice and marks the longest day of the year – in daylight hours and possibly on the saddle!

The Solstice 100 is back for a ninth year and is once again hosted by The Pomfret Arms – a bike friendly pub close to the centre of Northampton.

As always, we love to mix things up and this year’s event will feature yet another interesting new route.

The route, around 60% off-road, starts and finishes in Northampton and will traverse the beautiful rolling countryside of South Northants and Warwickshire. Highlights on this year’s route include plenty of singletrack as far west as Leamington Spa plus an added bonus of some purpose-built MTB trails.

The trails will consist of bridleways, byways, double & singletrack, cycle paths, forest tracks and quiet lanes, all with a wide variety of surfaces. There are no mountains, but this single loop event is one of the longest of its kind in the UK.. Are you up for the challenge?

Distance

100 miles (160 km)

Elevation

6,000k feet (1,828m)

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What’s included ?

– Event information pack

– Comprehensive route guide

– Fully detailed OS maps

– GPX files

– Public liability insurance

– Feed/water stops

Latest news.. We have partnered with
Delapre Bike Doctor
who are offering all entrants a minimum 10% discount on all repairs, services and builds

Something For Everyone!

Always an interesting route with a great atmosphere and camaraderie – overall a top day out and an annual riding highlight for many riders – Shane M (multiple Solstice 100 rider)

Loved the event, though certainly a tough challenge. A nice venue too at the Pomfret Arms with it’s promise of good beer and food providing the motivation to keep going! – Tim N (multiple Solstice 100 rider)

Entries open early '24

Dassett Hills to be re-visited in 2024

FAQ’s

– What type of bike would be suitable for this event?
Hardtail or full suspension mountain bikes and cyclocross/gravel bikes would all be fine. eBikes are also allowed.

– Will event run in bad weather?
Yes, for example if part of the route is flooded, a diversion will be in force.

– What time does event start?
Early! signing on will be from 6.00am to 6.55am.. The event will be a mass start scheduled for 7.00am.

– I’m planning on arriving the night before, is there anywhere to camp/stay?
There are numerous budget hotels in and around Northampton and a very large campsite for tents, camper vans, caravans etc at the nearby Billing Aquadrome.

– Is the route signed?
No, though some of the more trickier-to-follow sections may be signed. However, using the GPX files (which will be emailed to entrants before the event), will be the best and least time-consuming method of navigation. Fully detailed OS maps will also be provided to make navigation easier.

– Can I enter on the day?
Yes, unless event is sold out. (NB. On day entry will be £30 – cash only)

– What happens if i can’t make it to the finish?
We can ‘sweep’ you up and take you to the finish – but there will be a charge, dependent on where you are! Alternatively, It would be possible to get a train back to Northampton from Leamington Spa with a change at Coventry.