September 25, 2014
Review: Found Haroldtown while googling for new places to ride within an hour of Oshawa.
First time there, I took a hardtail 9er [a CCM POS]. I was humbled by the quick twists and turns in the lower woods just west of parking lot. Part of my intimidation factor was my lack of skill at the time and dark sunglasses in a very shady and dark course.
Next time, I had many more hours of experience from Long Sault CA and 2004 Giant NRS Air that I had just bought used. Much, much better. More skills, 26 wheels, clear eye protections, full suspension, etc and I was able to ride the lower technical woods with only a few spots where I needed to jump off bike. And I made it up the switchbacks to the top and down the long run back to parking lot.
I've been back a couple of times since and it gets better each time.
Most recently was in June for the Wildrock/Trek/Specialized Demo Day. Took an Epic Carbon 29er with brain and 1x10 drive train and it was perfect for there.
The bike was over $7Gs so I'd hope so, eh?
I'm shopping for a 650B Trance or Camber for next year. Would love to try it at Haroldtown as it may be small area, it has it all.
Wildrock in PB lets bikes out for testing there, so if I buy new, it'll likely be from them...
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PS: When going up the switches, be sure that you are on the right trail. One is designed to ride down and you'll soon know that as you try to go up.
And if you decide to take it down, be sharp! There are some unforgiving twists and turns and drops...
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I gave it a 4 only because it is a small area. Worth the drive tho.