Kevin glad you can live it through me. But can you have a family adventure? Even just a trip to the beach on a night or a forest area with a little picnic. That would be a mega evening out for me.
Wow, I’ve ridden to work for years, but have always been hesitant to go on long rides in places I’ve never been. I think you’ve convinced me. A Garmin will soon be ordered and I’ll just get out there and do it. What an inspirational video! Thank you!
Don't be too hard on the girl who rode up the same set of hills, day after day! She paved the road for the girl who is enjoying her cycling adventures, today! LOL!
I read this before I finished the video and I was really confused about what was coming up - was Katie going to bully someone in the video?! :D Obviously, it's about being hard on ourselves, but it made me realise how silly it is to beat ourselves up that I thought it was aimed at someone else. Lol :D
Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the work you put into your channel and the amazing adventures you take us on, Katie! I can't overstate how inspiring your videos are, and how much more accessible you make cycling feel. I started cycling about three years ago just as I was turning 40, and was very much in the wheel tracks of my ex who is a very experienced cyclist and sometime triathlete. We went on some great little adventures together but after we broke up, I rode my first 120km sportive solo, which was intimidating to say the least (until I got swept up in the general excitement at that start, that is!). I'm now discovering the excitement of planning out trips, as well as the joy of just following my nose and my own pace, but also feeling empowered to raise the bar thanks to your epic trips.
Hey Katie thank you for this video . If you remember I am the one who bought your bike. I've had to take some time out due to a medical condition and I'm basically starting to ride all over again , plus the bike is getting a little modification to help me ride longer . Thank you once again for your positivity xx
Awwwww Jimmy! Thank you. I had such a great time riding this and filming it. This is my favourite and missed it so much over winter so can't wait to share more of these videos and adventures with you all. Have you planned a little adventure? you know the deal.... let me know once you've watched it :)
Great video. I live on the Island and think the Dept of Tourism need to have a word with you as your video was a great advert even though it wasn't your aim. Great video and sound advice, thanks 👍
You are such an inspiration Katie thank you for being you and the joy that you bring to your viewers! Look forward to getting back on the bike after yet another operation! Plus never give up searching for sheepies! Makes me giggle every time 😂
Thank you Katie. I’ve been planning a big adventure for 6 months with my bike around Europe/UK and I have found myself so stressed that I have forgotten what it’s all about! You brought it all back to me. Very helpful. Enjoy the adventure! Thank you so much.
I love your enthusiasm and your look of excitement as you boarded the ferry. It reminded me of motorcycle trips before I started cycling; so often they started or finished with a ferry crossing in the early hours - it always felt more of an adventure that way. Now, with poor eyesight every ride is an adventure!! Enjoy every minute, you never know what the future holds. Thanks for taking us with you 👍🚴♀️
Glad you enjoyed the Isle of Man, my home, it's pretty obvious to me which way went. Theee are super climbs and the views from the top are spectacular you stopped at the round table from where you can easily see Northern Ireland and Scotland.
Really enjoyed that Katie. Only bought my bike back in November to try and help a bit of anxiety to be honest after a 41 year lapse on a bike. Feeling fitter by the week and definitely helped with positives. Live in the New Forest and keep gazing at the Isle of Wight, no doubt a zero challenge for most but your smiles in your adventure are wonderful to see. Thanks for taking the time to post Katie, always appreciate your videos.
WOOOHOOOOO you got a bike!!! This is the first step and 41 years... so much more experienced now so you can do it. Just a little rusty at first but it will come back no doubt. Are you going to plan a little adventure? To be fair New Forest is GORGEOUS!! Ooh actually have a look at the Garmin Ride Out that happens in summer if you would like something to work towards. I will be there so would be great to see you. It's a sportive / charity event in the New Forest so you can be tour guide. It's a great group of people and always good fun. Have a think :) But well done on getting back into it Clayton. Hardest part done now. Now it's for the all the fun 🤩
My family had Isle of Man holidays for years, unique place went on honeymoon 😍 and did a TT lap 37miles ? Dad lapped Ireland for charity 1000 miles!! Alot don't know that after the motorcycle TT they have a cycling fortnight, criteriums time trials finishing with a 3 lap road race that can launch winners into pro career (Stephen Roche !!) Cheers 🍻 from Australia 😊
I can't help but think that after 45 years of riding on the road and many adventures in the UK and abroad that I should plan more mini adventures. I too tend to prefer solo cycling, have done for all those 45 years...
Love the outtakes proper Rochdale lass and using Ashy Valley as a training ride 😅 you must be good from Bury Road to Owd Betts that is sooooo tough - harder than Buckstones Rd!
So glad you enjoyed your time here and that you’ll be coming back. Even got that essential Manx experience - a cancelled ferry. Good to see that they looked after you.
Fantastic video Katie! Your joy and enthusiasm leaps from the screen and makes me happy while sitting inside working on a really wet and windy day. Can't wait for more. Cheers!
Thank you Katie and thank you Garmin ... This was a great video. Now i know i want a edge explore ll. Your the first person i have had explain these garmin units.
Got to say, your videos are uplifting. So cheerful, what a tonic! Thanks for sharing the Isle Of Man. Stayed at Laxey in 1974. Came to watch motorcycle TT. As you say, bargain trip.
As always so inspiring and have an adventure every year with my son now so 63 and 33 years pick apart in France and just cycle with a basic idea and see we’re the adventure brings us, rest of year mainly solo in all weather as it’s my head space time. Great to see you so motivated it rubs off on us keep it up 👍
Stepping outside of our comfort zones. We should all try it more often and make sure to give ourselves credit for trying and eventually growing from it. Thanks for the Garmin Connect route-finding tips!
There is a quote that says something like the adventure and fun is found outside our comfort zones and think it's so true! :) Aww glad you found it helpful. Thanks Chris
The secret's out... A great route for next time is up from Douglas to Ramsey via Laxey (on a nice day you can stop at Laxey for a swim) then hop on the TT course at Ramsey and come back via the Mountain Road. There's a brutal 1700ft/4 mile climb to get you started followed by a stunning 7 mile descent into Douglas. You could then carry on south to the Round Table if you fancy more wonderful hills
Thanks for inspiring me to get planning my next adventure. Really relate to what you say about life being hard and we don't pat ourselves on the back enough. Thanks for sharing 👍
I love heading off on an adventure, on roads I've never ridden before. Makes my soul happy! I also love planning routes and spend many hours on komoot, strava, garmin and Google maps!
Thanks Katie for admitting to fear, I have been feeling the same for a long time. I love going to new places but rely on friends for routes to follow and if I do plot a route I still want friends along side me. Hopefully this year I can channel your confidence and get out there on my own more xxxx Love your content Katie
Katie, I just got my first head unit a 530 and I agree Garmin is great. I didn’t realize how much it adds to my riding. I chose Garmin partly because of your endorsement, thanks!
Enjoy the channel and your outlook, we all have bills to pay and obligations to meet, but the general message that you seem to share is “do things to set your soul on fire” your appreciation for where you are and self reflection is refreshing. Cheers.
THIS is exactly it and so glad that it comes across. I have those obligations too but it's SO important that we take time to get out and do the things that we love and that make us happy. Whether that's running, cycling, gardening, dancing, drawing, singing... I think we are all here to ultimately enjoy the planet and the things it offers. And cycling just happens to be mine. I think when we don't have those things I think that's when our mental health suffers. We actually need these things. I know I need cycling and adventure to feel my best. 💚
Love just jumping on my bike solo and having a mini adventure. Got to say though prefer it in the sun, leave my worries behind for a while. I find myself saying hi to the sheep now, it must infectious. Don’t know how she does that amount of kms and climbs, hats off to her. Always listen to our Katie, she knows her stuff.
Thanks for the vid Katie - I've been going through a really difficult time lately and your positive energy really helps. Please keep doing what you do! 🙂
Matt so sorry to hear. I can't talk for you but I had a tough time last year for a number of reasons but I promise it does get easier. And there will be nice bike rides this spring and hopefully we can get some group rides going in summer. That is my mission this year. Glad you enjoyed this video and sending you a hug matey :)
Always a good day out on the Isle of Man! Always windy too, even when it’s not. You managed to squeeze in most of the best and toughest climbs in that route too 🙌🏼
Enjoyed that, looks a great place to cycle and easy on the pocket. Great short adventure, thanks for sharing. Will have to consider Garmin . Happy pedaling Katie.
Loved the vid, inspiring for someone coming back to adventures having dabbled with TTing and lost the "fun" of being on a bike. Planning my first big adventure for Easter , two days and 220 miles! "Newcastle or Bust" 😀 And the being alone bit, totally get it, I'm the same. Look forward to more adventures from you.
I love this message! Stepping out of comfort zones is so challenging but can be so fun and taking us on many adventures! The wife is more nervous for me to go alone as my navigation is HORRIBLE. I told her I'll just steal (borrow for a ride) her head-unit and I'll be fine. also "[3k climb] it's so steep can you see it...oh shit look at it up there" - made me chuckle!
I love route planning too. When I am bored on conference calls I fire up Komoot and plan a route. I have dozens of routes I am yet to ride! Great video yet again KK, smashing it as always!
Interesting 'confession', Katie! Nothing to be embarrassed about, though. You hit a note with me, when you mentioned the navigation on Garmin devices; my Garmin 520 has terrific navigation. If I even stop to take a photo on a quiet, country road and park the bike on the opposite side of the road, when I view the ride later in Garmin Connect, if I zoom the page in, I can see that little deviation that I took. I love nitty-gritty stuff like that!
Did a trip last year, took the train down from Glasgow to Largs and got the ferry over to Cumbrae. It's a small island (only about 10 miles round) but used to go there for summer holidays as a kid and it brought back so many memories. Got a lovely day for it, and of course had to do what you did and have an ice cream on the beach. I've been so many places over the last year that are relatively local to me but never visited, been to WW2 AA gun batteries, museums, waterfalls, old mills, bridges, railways and loads of other things. Hoping to do the Five Ferries at some point this year (can't do it properly in winter as the ferry off Arran runs to where the 3rd ferry leaves from, so cuts off a big section of riding).
The IoM is one of my favourite places to cycle, usually go every year for a few days. Riding solo is such a good way of recharging the mental and physical batteries, as long as you’re comfortable in your own headspace.
I just loved this. What a fantastic adventure. I have never been to the Isle of Man but it is definitely somewhere that I now want to visit with the bike. Great route planning and I would 100% agree that the navigation on my Garmin head unit gave me the confidence to ride in new and unfamiliar places, which is something that I love.
Damn right be proud of yourself Katie! Great video thanks. I know what you mean about those nagging doubts that we sometimes struggle to overcome. I still get those doubts ahead of a big cycling adventure but have learnt to ignore them and have never regretted it
This was a truly fabulous video … so great to see you livin’ large and happy as can be! Good morning sheepies … that never gets old. I can relate to wanting to take snaps (with my little Fuji X100V) while riding and the time that adds but definitely worth it. An ocean passage, the seaside, beans-n-toast and hills all add up to one epic adventure. Ta very much for the route planning tips and for crafting this really excellent and inspirational video! 🚴♂️🐑⛰️📷😄
Hi Katie, You are an inspiration, I'm just about to set off on my bike and ride up the hill to Widdop Reservoir even though it's started snowing! I wasn't going to go but you have inspired me to get out and just do it. Amazing.
I love planning a little adventure on my own. Haven’t done the IOM yet but a big fan of IOW! Come do the Randonnee on 5 May if you’ve not done it before… great day out!
As usual, another great video and your message will benefit so many riders...thank you! What you described as embarrassment is a symptom of lacking confidence and thus you are more focussed on what others may think of you than on what you are personally experiencing in the moment. In describing your previous situation, you very accurately conveyed the wonderful gift of growth. Growth is the gift we give ourselves when we trust and believe in ourselves and do not focus on what others may think about us. Your experience (speaking to everyone) is yours, it has nothing whatsoever to do with the opinions of any other person...embrace your experiences!
Absolutely Shawn! I think it from me perspective now but at the time it was what I felt comfortable with doing. And seems such a waste / shame I didn't find that confidence a little earlier. But it's all about growth and I have done a lot of that so proud of myself woop woop! Sure you have done the same Shawn 🙂
There is one thing I appreciate about the internet and social media. I also enjoy solo adventuring. And on Facebook, Discord, other platforms, I’m able to connect with likeminded people who also enjoy similar adventures.
Such a positive vibe. I can totally relate, my first head unit also opened a world of routes right at the doorstep. It was (and still is) a Wahoo though 😉
When I moved to Brazil 15 years ago, I started off-road cycling with a group, which was great, but for over 3 years now I've cycled alone, it is dangerous to cycle alone because of the risk of assault is quite high towards cyclists, since bikes and components are quite expensive. This threat has never stopped me from enjoying a good solo ride, it allows me to clear my mind and enjoy the rest of my week. Hope you don't mind me suggesting, but when I lived in Scotland, I dreamt of doing a cycling tour of the west of Scotland, Black isles, Loch Carron, Applecross Pass, Isle of Skye, that area of Scotland is beautiful and definitely worth Cycling / Visiting. Thank you for the video.
Great video.Like it as we go to the Isle Of Man every year. This year we be spending 4 weeks over there on 3 trips. The first one will be no bikes as we are painting a cottage over there. As you said its a great island to cycle and you will never get bored asthere many different routes and some of the hills are buggers to get up. There so may nice cafes. When you was in Laxy there was one just behind that sells lovely cream scones. POrt Erin has the ice cream shop and the cosy nook cafe which will reopen in few weeks for the summer. Castletown has little doors painted at street level for the mice. ( Which I not found as I keep forgetting to look). Magnetic hill which it says when you are there you roll back as you go up hill. I did not see any difference.
Well done especially for the time of year. I'm quite good at getting lost , I was in the hills in Portugal, roads just disappear , so I managed to follow a small truck down a huge hill all the way to his front door! But he took pity on me and gave me a lift with all my camping stuff etc back up the hill and we knocked on someones door for directions. Have fun.
Your positive attitude is such a motivator, thanks for another great video! Lol, last Sunday I caught myself saying "Hi Sheepies" and wondered where that came from 🧐, then I remembered 🙂
Totally loved this video Katie. What a great wee mini adventure. I also really enjoy route planning. Mine is all done on strava online though and involves using my phone and google maps to click onto streetview to check out road surfaces etc. I don't know how you select your backround music for your videos, but i love it, its always happy bubbly feel good songs (to match the video creators lovely personality 😊😊)
Hi Katie, what a brilliant video! I’ve always loved island rides (we’ve got a few in the Pacific Northwest, Canada), the hills are a good excuse for swimming (summertime 😂). Thanks for the honest review of Garmin headset series! IoM looks like a lovely ride. Thinking that next time I’m in the UK, I should bring my bike!!
Katie, I often go on a little adventure , turn down a road that I dont really know where it goes ...I basically head in the general direction that I want to go in, keep the sea on your right [ or left ] then turn round and do the opposite... I dont really have a route as such , my friend loves to plan a route , looks at the wind charts and blah blah blah .. I have tried but it looks like work and smells like work so I avoid this action .. I think the wind doesn't always take note of what it should be doing as well so the best laid plans go out the round window after 15 mins .. If I go on an adventure I always get lost for a while , its not a problem , getting lost is not avoidable for me even if I use a guide I end up turning Left onto some ones massive private estate ,after taking the next left as directed [ I dont think you can fix stupid ] I think I have map dyslexia In the video you said you might see some good sheep, does this imply there are bad sheep ?? if so how do I recognise them ?? Down here its a bit of a sheep free zone and you do seem to be up on the subject . The few sheep we do have I just give a passing glance and they seem content with that , Its only via you have I been made aware that they like to be greeted can not promise to do that as cheerfully as you do .. Sheep and rain go together in my head ... I walked round the Isle of Man a long time ago , its a stunning place to be , that light house I think you can see all 4 countries, there's a massive mine wheel there .. when we walked that island we kept the sea to our left and one week later ended up where we started , did say it was fool proof navigation ... There's a lot of positivity an adventure can be as big or small as you want it to be ... enjoy the day
Personally, I love riding with friends, and I always end up having a great time. I also love riding solo, especially when I am having a hard time getting myself motivated to even get out. On rides where I am unmotivated, I have a rule of a 20 mile minimum, but once I am past that mileage point, I can either call it good, but 99% of the time I continue on farther because the simple joy of riding just makes a difference in my attitude. I'm glad you're able to have these great places and experiences while riding.
Great video inspired me to do the same thing ferry and ride. Never had a garmin or anything but the explorer 2 looks like the perfect bit of tech for me so I’m gonna get one.
I do most of my riding these days Katie due to my riding buddies being injured and losing motivation to get fit. I have my favourite routes but sometimes I'll just turn down a road to see what's down there .
It’s funny, it’s only just recently I’ve grown to realise I prefer riding alone. I do like riding with people and it’s nothing to do with my navigation skills more to do with my confidence in my stamina, and ability. On my own I can go for as long, or short, or technical ride that suits me. Similarly I love riding with others sometimes but the solo adventure rocks!!
I really should go over there as I’m only 2 miles from the port of heysham ! Apparently the TT course is very popular for push bikes albeit a little slower 😂 , would never of thought a loop of that small island gets about 100 miles wow . Should have had sleep eye covers to combat those very bright lights on the ferry Katie . You did very well to get a no rain day as it’s often wet around those parts , & I’m sorry but I’m wahoo through & through but each to their own
Yes, I basked in that same feeling you were mentioning many times but nowhere near as many times as I would have loved to since work and bike life never collimated together. Still, I can recall some of my own outings and immediately draw some sense of inner peace, a sense of belonging to the earth. Your away trip though! Enjoyed it thoroughly from dusk till dawn, I seemed to smell that same seaside whiff when you named it and felt complete and contented all throughout the trip. You did it once again, didn't you !! And we're proud and grateful that you did. Oh, and one more thing : You get - 50 Gryffindor points for that "Love Island" mention at the end of the video and +50 Slytherin points shall be awarded to you instead. ⚖ 🪄 ⚡ 😄😊 👋 =]
Katie Kookaburra You made me realize how many years I been following you. You were the first subscription I had in you tube, about way before you went riding to Thailand… like 10 years now…..I guess I can say I’m a Kookaburra Fan… ❤❤ I hope one day I could do a ride with you
Yes I’ve been on rides like that with my son (never as long as your amazing rides!)and everything always goes wrong and he goes mad and I just laugh but it’s ok in the end ha ha 🤣
Hi Katie I'm glad you like my home , next time bring your mountain bike it's even better 😊 yes that head wind on the coast road and I see you climbed Druidale yes that is usually my first climb of the day 😅
Please you enjoyed the visit, but you missed out Peel! You would have loved it. You picked the right day, weather wasn’t as good the next day and I see you had the same sailing cancelled as my son! At least you all got away the next day. There is a reason why some of the UK best male and female road racers come from the IOM :)
Thanks for sharing. Shows how old I am.... I used to go to the local gas station where i lived at the time and look for local maps. Buy it and ride the local roads. Ah the days before tge GPS
Great video,if stay overnight in hotel you wash clothes in shower with you wring them and role in a towel and hang up overnight they will be dry in morning 😊
Try cycling from point to point, without the maps relying on locals for guidance but make sure you have a train or bus to get you back. I have found so many great routes by accident while just enjoying the ride.
That looks like a great place to explore by bike. I have a Garmin 1030 which I haven't used much as I have tended mostly to only go locally from home but you have insprired me to plan some new routes. I can easily put my bike rack on the car and get away for new adventures / challenges.
You absolutely can!! And the 1030 is also a cracker of a head unit. I had the 1030 plus and the battery and navigation was top. See you have everything you need - apart from a little courage and hopefully I’ve given you that. Go have fun Jimmy!! :)
Crazy, I happened to watch the Cafe Ride with Matt Stevens and Mark Cavendish earlier today, and started thinking about what riding the IoM would be like. I'd dreamed about doing it on a motorcycle in the past. Great video!
I’m new to cycling, I like going out on my own, going where I want at a moments notice, at a speed that I’m in the mood for, hilly or flat, learning from my mistakes. If I get a little bored I will look to join a club, but it all looks a little like work just now, appointments, meeting targets.
Loved watching this! Hoping to get out on the bike more as soon as the weather breaks. The constant rain has made it a nightmare so far as I don’t have wet/cold weather kit 🤦🏼♀️
Riding solo can be the most wonderful experience in the world. Ride at your own pace, and just take in the scenery. Thank you, Katie!
Couldn't agree more! 💚
I don't have enough time for bike adventures due to family obligations. I love it when you share outings. Thank you!
Hi Kevin 👋 I'm in a similar position. Great to see Katie enjoy it so much 😀
Kevin glad you can live it through me. But can you have a family adventure? Even just a trip to the beach on a night or a forest area with a little picnic. That would be a mega evening out for me.
Wow, I’ve ridden to work for years, but have always been hesitant to go on long rides in places I’ve never been. I think you’ve convinced me. A Garmin will soon be ordered and I’ll just get out there and do it. What an inspirational video! Thank you!
Don't be too hard on the girl who rode up the same set of hills, day after day! She paved the road for the girl who is enjoying her cycling adventures, today! LOL!
I read this before I finished the video and I was really confused about what was coming up - was Katie going to bully someone in the video?! :D Obviously, it's about being hard on ourselves, but it made me realise how silly it is to beat ourselves up that I thought it was aimed at someone else. Lol :D
Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the work you put into your channel and the amazing adventures you take us on, Katie! I can't overstate how inspiring your videos are, and how much more accessible you make cycling feel.
I started cycling about three years ago just as I was turning 40, and was very much in the wheel tracks of my ex who is a very experienced cyclist and sometime triathlete. We went on some great little adventures together but after we broke up, I rode my first 120km sportive solo, which was intimidating to say the least (until I got swept up in the general excitement at that start, that is!).
I'm now discovering the excitement of planning out trips, as well as the joy of just following my nose and my own pace, but also feeling empowered to raise the bar thanks to your epic trips.
Hey Katie thank you for this video . If you remember I am the one who bought your bike. I've had to take some time out due to a medical condition and I'm basically starting to ride all over again , plus the bike is getting a little modification to help me ride longer . Thank you once again for your positivity xx
I’ve only watched two mins so far and your super-positive attitude is a breath of fresh air on a gloomy Thursday afternoon! ❤
Awwwww Jimmy! Thank you. I had such a great time riding this and filming it. This is my favourite and missed it so much over winter so can't wait to share more of these videos and adventures with you all. Have you planned a little adventure? you know the deal.... let me know once you've watched it :)
Isle of Man looks great for cycling. No wonder Cav is so good. You make the best all-round advice for audax/adventure videos on youtube
Awwww PAUL!! What a compliment!! Thank you xx
Great video. I live on the Island and think the Dept of Tourism need to have a word with you as your video was a great advert even though it wasn't your aim. Great video and sound advice, thanks 👍
Great vid, my brother lives on the IOM, gorgeous place, they don't even lock their houses or cars up, no need, cos there's no crime!
There’s bike left everywhere and I felt so safe there. Lovely island 🏝️
Lovely video. So nice to see the calf of man from that perspective (@18:00) which i can see from my house here in Anglesey on a clear day.
my home from home.... love that place. Go back at the end of May.... it's even better!!
You are such an inspiration Katie thank you for being you and the joy that you bring to your viewers! Look forward to getting back on the bike after yet another operation! Plus never give up searching for sheepies! Makes me giggle every time 😂
I’m in my first year of retirement and your video has inspired me to expand my riding, love your channel!
Thank you Katie. I’ve been planning a big adventure for 6 months with my bike around Europe/UK and I have found myself so stressed that I have forgotten what it’s all about! You brought it all back to me. Very helpful. Enjoy the adventure! Thank you so much.
I love your enthusiasm and your look of excitement as you boarded the ferry. It reminded me of motorcycle trips before I started cycling; so often they started or finished with a ferry crossing in the early hours - it always felt more of an adventure that way. Now, with poor eyesight every ride is an adventure!! Enjoy every minute, you never know what the future holds. Thanks for taking us with you 👍🚴♀️
Glad you enjoyed the Isle of Man, my home, it's pretty obvious to me which way went. Theee are super climbs and the views from the top are spectacular you stopped at the round table from where you can easily see Northern Ireland and Scotland.
Really enjoyed that Katie. Only bought my bike back in November to try and help a bit of anxiety to be honest after a 41 year lapse on a bike. Feeling fitter by the week and definitely helped with positives. Live in the New Forest and keep gazing at the Isle of Wight, no doubt a zero challenge for most but your smiles in your adventure are wonderful to see. Thanks for taking the time to post Katie, always appreciate your videos.
WOOOHOOOOO you got a bike!!! This is the first step and 41 years... so much more experienced now so you can do it. Just a little rusty at first but it will come back no doubt. Are you going to plan a little adventure? To be fair New Forest is GORGEOUS!! Ooh actually have a look at the Garmin Ride Out that happens in summer if you would like something to work towards. I will be there so would be great to see you. It's a sportive / charity event in the New Forest so you can be tour guide. It's a great group of people and always good fun. Have a think :) But well done on getting back into it Clayton. Hardest part done now. Now it's for the all the fun 🤩
I get it. It's been 25 years for me !
My family had Isle of Man holidays for years, unique place went on honeymoon 😍 and did a TT lap 37miles ? Dad lapped Ireland for charity 1000 miles!! Alot don't know that after the motorcycle TT they have a cycling fortnight, criteriums time trials finishing with a 3 lap road race that can launch winners into pro career (Stephen Roche !!) Cheers 🍻 from Australia 😊
I can't help but think that after 45 years of riding on the road and many adventures in the UK and abroad that I should plan more mini adventures. I too tend to prefer solo cycling, have done for all those 45 years...
Love the outtakes proper Rochdale lass and using Ashy Valley as a training ride 😅 you must be good from Bury Road to Owd Betts that is sooooo tough - harder than Buckstones Rd!
Solid video Katie! Riding solo is full empowerment. Most rewarding discovering your own route and adventure. Thanks for sharing!
So glad you enjoyed your time here and that you’ll be coming back. Even got that essential Manx experience - a cancelled ferry. Good to see that they looked after you.
Fantastic video Katie! Your joy and enthusiasm leaps from the screen and makes me happy while sitting inside working on a really wet and windy day. Can't wait for more. Cheers!
Thank you Katie and thank you Garmin ... This was a great video. Now i know i want a edge explore ll. Your the first person i have had explain these garmin units.
Got to say, your videos are uplifting. So cheerful, what a tonic! Thanks for sharing the Isle Of Man. Stayed at Laxey in 1974. Came to watch motorcycle TT. As you say, bargain trip.
As always so inspiring and have an adventure every year with my son now so 63 and 33 years pick apart in France and just cycle with a basic idea and see we’re the adventure brings us, rest of year mainly solo in all weather as it’s my head space time. Great to see you so motivated it rubs off on us keep it up 👍
Stepping outside of our comfort zones. We should all try it more often and make sure to give ourselves credit for trying and eventually growing from it. Thanks for the Garmin Connect route-finding tips!
There is a quote that says something like the adventure and fun is found outside our comfort zones and think it's so true! :) Aww glad you found it helpful. Thanks Chris
I love your enthusiasm and desire to ride new routes. 🎊 🎉
The secret's out...
A great route for next time is up from Douglas to Ramsey via Laxey (on a nice day you can stop at Laxey for a swim) then hop on the TT course at Ramsey and come back via the Mountain Road. There's a brutal 1700ft/4 mile climb to get you started followed by a stunning 7 mile descent into Douglas. You could then carry on south to the Round Table if you fancy more wonderful hills
Oooh send us the route!! Sounds beaut.
Thanks for inspiring me to get planning my next adventure. Really relate to what you say about life being hard and we don't pat ourselves on the back enough. Thanks for sharing 👍
I love heading off on an adventure, on roads I've never ridden before. Makes my soul happy! I also love planning routes and spend many hours on komoot, strava, garmin and Google maps!
Thanks Katie for admitting to fear, I have been feeling the same for a long time. I love going to new places but rely on friends for routes to follow and if I do plot a route I still want friends along side me. Hopefully this year I can channel your confidence and get out there on my own more xxxx Love your content Katie
I don't have friends so I have to do that alone 😅
@@53andME 🤗😪🤗
Love this. Great tips. Can't wait to get out cycling
Katie, I just got my first head unit a 530 and I agree Garmin is great. I didn’t realize how much it adds to my riding. I chose Garmin partly because of your endorsement, thanks!
SO happy to hear this. The 530 is a MEGA beast of a unit. Glad you're enjoying your adventures with it TK :)
Enjoy the channel and your outlook, we all have bills to pay and obligations to meet, but the general message that you seem to share is “do things to set your soul on fire” your appreciation for where you are and self reflection is refreshing. Cheers.
THIS is exactly it and so glad that it comes across. I have those obligations too but it's SO important that we take time to get out and do the things that we love and that make us happy. Whether that's running, cycling, gardening, dancing, drawing, singing... I think we are all here to ultimately enjoy the planet and the things it offers. And cycling just happens to be mine. I think when we don't have those things I think that's when our mental health suffers. We actually need these things. I know I need cycling and adventure to feel my best. 💚
Love just jumping on my bike solo and having a mini adventure. Got to say though prefer it in the sun, leave my worries behind for a while. I find myself saying hi to the sheep now, it must infectious.
Don’t know how she does that amount of kms and climbs, hats off to her.
Always listen to our Katie, she knows her stuff.
Thanks for the vid Katie - I've been going through a really difficult time lately and your positive energy really helps. Please keep doing what you do! 🙂
Matt so sorry to hear. I can't talk for you but I had a tough time last year for a number of reasons but I promise it does get easier. And there will be nice bike rides this spring and hopefully we can get some group rides going in summer. That is my mission this year. Glad you enjoyed this video and sending you a hug matey :)
Always a good day out on the Isle of Man! Always windy too, even when it’s not. You managed to squeeze in most of the best and toughest climbs in that route too 🙌🏼
Enjoyed that, looks a great place to cycle and easy on the pocket. Great short adventure, thanks for sharing. Will have to consider Garmin .
Happy pedaling Katie.
Man, you're the ultimate optimist, turning a cancelled ferry and unexpected overnight stay into a positive.
Loved the vid, inspiring for someone coming back to adventures having dabbled with TTing and lost the "fun" of being on a bike. Planning my first big adventure for Easter , two days and 220 miles! "Newcastle or Bust" 😀 And the being alone bit, totally get it, I'm the same. Look forward to more adventures from you.
the cycling head units are the key to cycling freedom/adventure 🚴♂ seriously help with confidence on solo trips
I love this message! Stepping out of comfort zones is so challenging but can be so fun and taking us on many adventures! The wife is more nervous for me to go alone as my navigation is HORRIBLE. I told her I'll just steal (borrow for a ride) her head-unit and I'll be fine.
also "[3k climb] it's so steep can you see it...oh shit look at it up there" - made me chuckle!
I love route planning too. When I am bored on conference calls I fire up Komoot and plan a route. I have dozens of routes I am yet to ride! Great video yet again KK, smashing it as always!
Interesting 'confession', Katie! Nothing to be embarrassed about, though. You hit a note with me, when you mentioned the navigation on Garmin devices; my Garmin 520 has terrific navigation. If I even stop to take a photo on a quiet, country road and park the bike on the opposite side of the road, when I view the ride later in Garmin Connect, if I zoom the page in, I can see that little deviation that I took. I love nitty-gritty stuff like that!
I always take my bike to my cabin never leave it great to see you again
Did a trip last year, took the train down from Glasgow to Largs and got the ferry over to Cumbrae. It's a small island (only about 10 miles round) but used to go there for summer holidays as a kid and it brought back so many memories. Got a lovely day for it, and of course had to do what you did and have an ice cream on the beach. I've been so many places over the last year that are relatively local to me but never visited, been to WW2 AA gun batteries, museums, waterfalls, old mills, bridges, railways and loads of other things.
Hoping to do the Five Ferries at some point this year (can't do it properly in winter as the ferry off Arran runs to where the 3rd ferry leaves from, so cuts off a big section of riding).
The IoM is one of my favourite places to cycle, usually go every year for a few days. Riding solo is such a good way of recharging the mental and physical batteries, as long as you’re comfortable in your own headspace.
I just loved this. What a fantastic adventure. I have never been to the Isle of Man but it is definitely somewhere that I now want to visit with the bike. Great route planning and I would 100% agree that the navigation on my Garmin head unit gave me the confidence to ride in new and unfamiliar places, which is something that I love.
Damn right be proud of yourself Katie! Great video thanks. I know what you mean about those nagging doubts that we sometimes struggle to overcome. I still get those doubts ahead of a big cycling adventure but have learnt to ignore them and have never regretted it
This was a truly fabulous video … so great to see you livin’ large and happy as can be! Good morning sheepies … that never gets old. I can relate to wanting to take snaps (with my little Fuji X100V) while riding and the time that adds but definitely worth it. An ocean passage, the seaside, beans-n-toast and hills all add up to one epic adventure. Ta very much for the route planning tips and for crafting this really excellent and inspirational video! 🚴♂️🐑⛰️📷😄
Hi Katie, You are an inspiration, I'm just about to set off on my bike and ride up the hill to Widdop Reservoir even though it's started snowing! I wasn't going to go but you have inspired me to get out and just do it. Amazing.
I love planning a little adventure on my own. Haven’t done the IOM yet but a big fan of IOW! Come do the Randonnee on 5 May if you’ve not done it before… great day out!
Great stuff Katie, keep on enjoying those adventures and stay safe.
Great adventure Katie and some stunning views en route. Love your videos.
As usual, another great video and your message will benefit so many riders...thank you! What you described as embarrassment is a symptom of lacking confidence and thus you are more focussed on what others may think of you than on what you are personally experiencing in the moment. In describing your previous situation, you very accurately conveyed the wonderful gift of growth. Growth is the gift we give ourselves when we trust and believe in ourselves and do not focus on what others may think about us. Your experience (speaking to everyone) is yours, it has nothing whatsoever to do with the opinions of any other person...embrace your experiences!
Absolutely Shawn! I think it from me perspective now but at the time it was what I felt comfortable with doing. And seems such a waste / shame I didn't find that confidence a little earlier. But it's all about growth and I have done a lot of that so proud of myself woop woop! Sure you have done the same Shawn 🙂
Love the playing out reference that's what I always say 😂
There is one thing I appreciate about the internet and social media.
I also enjoy solo adventuring. And on Facebook, Discord, other platforms, I’m able to connect with likeminded people who also enjoy similar adventures.
YASSSSSS Jon! Glad you enjoy it too. What is the best one you have done? Give us all some ideas and inspiration 💚
Loved this video. Genuinely shows how anyone can grow their confidence and ability xx
What a great adventure. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you the scenery is stunning ❤
Such a positive vibe. I can totally relate, my first head unit also opened a world of routes right at the doorstep. It was (and still is) a Wahoo though 😉
When I moved to Brazil 15 years ago, I started off-road cycling with a group, which was great, but for over 3 years now I've cycled alone, it is dangerous to cycle alone because of the risk of assault is quite high towards cyclists, since bikes and components are quite expensive. This threat has never stopped me from enjoying a good solo ride, it allows me to clear my mind and enjoy the rest of my week.
Hope you don't mind me suggesting, but when I lived in Scotland, I dreamt of doing a cycling tour of the west of Scotland, Black isles, Loch Carron, Applecross Pass, Isle of Skye, that area of Scotland is beautiful and definitely worth Cycling / Visiting.
Thank you for the video.
You always inspire Katie! Thank you!
Great video.Like it as we go to the Isle Of Man every year. This year we be spending 4 weeks over there on 3 trips. The first one will be no bikes as we are painting a cottage over there. As you said its a great island to cycle and you will never get bored asthere many different routes and some of the hills are buggers to get up. There so may nice cafes. When you was in Laxy there was one just behind that sells lovely cream scones. POrt Erin has the ice cream shop and the cosy nook cafe which will reopen in few weeks for the summer. Castletown has little doors painted at street level for the mice. ( Which I not found as I keep forgetting to look). Magnetic hill which it says when you are there you roll back as you go up hill. I did not see any difference.
Well done especially for the time of year. I'm quite good at getting lost , I was in the hills in Portugal, roads just disappear , so I managed to follow a small truck down a huge hill all the way to his front door! But he took pity on me and gave me a lift with all my camping stuff etc back up the hill and we knocked on someones door for directions. Have fun.
Your positive attitude is such a motivator, thanks for another great video! Lol, last Sunday I caught myself saying "Hi Sheepies" and wondered where that came from 🧐, then I remembered 🙂
Totally loved this video Katie. What a great wee mini adventure.
I also really enjoy route planning. Mine is all done on strava online though and involves using my phone and google maps to click onto streetview to check out road surfaces etc.
I don't know how you select your backround music for your videos, but i love it, its always happy bubbly feel good songs (to match the video creators lovely personality 😊😊)
Isle of Man is well worth a visit . Great for Hiking as well
I miss riding outside so much right now. It's lovely to watch you doing it and sharing it. Life goals.
I had too and this was EXACTLY what I needed! Arghhhh so excited for spring. We are going to do all the rides my friend :)
@@KatieKookaburra ❤ Surgery being booked tomorrow. 6 weeks before the Fred! 😳
And not one mention of the “Manx Missile” 😆
Looks a lovely place to ride if challenging 👍🏻
Another great video like you i love cycling got rid of the car best thing i did and i am nearly 63.
Hi Katie, what a brilliant video!
I’ve always loved island rides (we’ve got a few in the Pacific Northwest, Canada), the hills are a good excuse for swimming (summertime 😂). Thanks for the honest review of Garmin headset series! IoM looks like a lovely ride.
Thinking that next time I’m in the UK, I should bring my bike!!
Honesty, information, stunning views, laaarffs & sheep. All things that go to make a KK vlog 😊
Thanks a lot 😊
Katie,
I often go on a little adventure , turn down a road that I dont really know where it goes ...I basically head in the general direction that I want to go in, keep the sea on your right [ or left ] then turn round and do the opposite... I dont really have a route as such , my friend loves to plan a route , looks at the wind charts and blah blah blah .. I have tried but it looks like work and smells like work so I avoid this action .. I think the wind doesn't always take note of what it should be doing as well so the best laid plans go out the round window after 15 mins .. If I go on an adventure I always get lost for a while , its not a problem , getting lost is not avoidable for me even if I use a guide I end up turning Left onto some ones massive private estate ,after taking the next left as directed [ I dont think you can fix stupid ] I think I have map dyslexia
In the video you said you might see some good sheep, does this imply there are bad sheep ?? if so how do I recognise them ?? Down here its a bit of a sheep free zone and you do seem to be up on the subject . The few sheep we do have I just give a passing glance and they seem content with that , Its only via you have I been made aware that they like to be greeted can not promise to do that as cheerfully as you do .. Sheep and rain go together in my head ...
I walked round the Isle of Man a long time ago , its a stunning place to be , that light house I think you can see all 4 countries, there's a massive mine wheel there .. when we walked that island we kept the sea to our left and one week later ended up where we started , did say it was fool proof navigation ...
There's a lot of positivity an adventure can be as big or small as you want it to be ... enjoy the day
Personally, I love riding with friends, and I always end up having a great time. I also love riding solo, especially when I am having a hard time getting myself motivated to even get out. On rides where I am unmotivated, I have a rule of a 20 mile minimum, but once I am past that mileage point, I can either call it good, but 99% of the time I continue on farther because the simple joy of riding just makes a difference in my attitude.
I'm glad you're able to have these great places and experiences while riding.
Great video inspired me to do the same thing ferry and ride. Never had a garmin or anything but the explorer 2 looks like the perfect bit of tech for me so I’m gonna get one.
I still remember how liberating it felt getting my first Garmin. Also mobile phones helped.
Inspirational as always - nice one, Katie 😉
I do most of my riding these days Katie due to my riding buddies being injured and losing motivation to get fit. I have my favourite routes but sometimes I'll just turn down a road to see what's down there .
It’s funny, it’s only just recently I’ve grown to realise I prefer riding alone. I do like riding with people and it’s nothing to do with my navigation skills more to do with my confidence in my stamina, and ability. On my own I can go for as long, or short, or technical ride that suits me. Similarly I love riding with others sometimes but the solo adventure rocks!!
I really should go over there as I’m only 2 miles from the port of heysham ! Apparently the TT course is very popular for push bikes albeit a little slower 😂 , would never of thought a loop of that small island gets about 100 miles wow . Should have had sleep eye covers to combat those very bright lights on the ferry Katie . You did very well to get a no rain day as it’s often wet around those parts , & I’m sorry but I’m wahoo through & through but each to their own
Yes, I basked in that same feeling you were mentioning many times but nowhere near as many times as I would have loved to since work and bike life never collimated together. Still, I can recall some of my own outings and immediately draw some sense of inner peace, a sense of belonging to the earth.
Your away trip though! Enjoyed it thoroughly from dusk till dawn, I seemed to smell that same seaside whiff when you named it and felt complete and contented all throughout the trip.
You did it once again, didn't you !! And we're proud and grateful that you did.
Oh, and one more thing :
You get - 50 Gryffindor points for that "Love Island" mention at the end of the video and +50 Slytherin points shall be awarded to you instead.
⚖ 🪄 ⚡
😄😊 👋 =]
I much prefer riding on my own. I love being in my own world and taking the scenery and world around me in
Katie Kookaburra You made me realize how many years I been following you. You were the first subscription I had in you tube, about way before you went riding to Thailand… like 10 years now…..I guess I can say I’m a Kookaburra Fan… ❤❤ I hope one day I could do a ride with you
As a regular visitor to the island for the TT, I would love to cycle round there too, its a great place.
You have the best cycling channel thank you
You’re an inspiration and we love you Katie just keep the great vlogs coming! Can’t wait to see the gravel ride mechanical failures ha ha 😂😂
Oooh Monday…. Hahaha it’s a JOKE 🤣🤣🤣
Yes I’ve been on rides like that with my son (never as long as your amazing rides!)and everything always goes wrong and he goes mad and I just laugh but it’s ok in the end ha ha 🤣
One day a Sheep will answer you back and say “Hellooo Katie” ❤️🚴🏼
a girl can only dream :)
Hi Katie I'm glad you like my home , next time bring your mountain bike it's even better 😊 yes that head wind on the coast road and I see you climbed Druidale yes that is usually my first climb of the day 😅
I love it! okaaaaay deal. Well maybe not. I don't have a MTB anymore... have a gravel bike though.
@KatieKookaburra snap I just bought one can't wait to try it out.
Katie, you make me smile 😊
Please you enjoyed the visit, but you missed out Peel! You would have loved it. You picked the right day, weather wasn’t as good the next day and I see you had the same sailing cancelled as my son! At least you all got away the next day. There is a reason why some of the UK best male and female road racers come from the IOM :)
Thanks for sharing. Shows how old I am.... I used to go to the local gas station where i lived at the time and look for local maps. Buy it and ride the local roads. Ah the days before tge GPS
Great video,if stay overnight in hotel you wash clothes in shower with you wring them and role in a towel and hang up overnight they will be dry in morning 😊
Try cycling from point to point, without the maps relying on locals for guidance but make sure you have a train or bus to get you back. I have found so many great routes by accident while just enjoying the ride.
We need more people like U positive energy love U❤❤❤❤
That looks like a great place to explore by bike.
I have a Garmin 1030 which I haven't used much as I have tended mostly to only go locally from home but you have insprired me to plan some new routes. I can easily put my bike rack on the car and get away for new adventures / challenges.
You absolutely can!! And the 1030 is also a cracker of a head unit. I had the 1030 plus and the battery and navigation was top. See you have everything you need - apart from a little courage and hopefully I’ve given you that. Go have fun Jimmy!! :)
Me too 😊
Crazy, I happened to watch the Cafe Ride with Matt Stevens and Mark Cavendish earlier today, and started thinking about what riding the IoM would be like. I'd dreamed about doing it on a motorcycle in the past. Great video!
Your wish is my command 💚
I’m new to cycling, I like going out on my own, going where I want at a moments notice, at a speed that I’m in the mood for, hilly or flat, learning from my mistakes. If I get a little bored I will look to join a club, but it all looks a little like work just now, appointments, meeting targets.
Definitely just enjoy it 😊
Loved watching this! Hoping to get out on the bike more as soon as the weather breaks. The constant rain has made it a nightmare so far as I don’t have wet/cold weather kit 🤦🏼♀️
yessss well you know what's good in the rain... ZWIFT? You coming on Tuesday? :)