Steve,
I quite agree with all your sentiments. I am one of those time limited riders who just wants to ride a bike in the great outdoors. Have done the Trans Cambrian, the PBW/MTL and love the idea of just getting away. Unfortunately have missed the entry for your Cairngorms Loop, but will be doing it outside of your organised ride when a) I get some time, and b) when I can convince my other half that spending 8 hours driving north to spend a few days getting cold wet and smelly is a good way to spend my holiday (on my own, not with her!)

We need more people who can organise events like this - I like the Kielder 100 (not quite the same I know), but the number of people who fail to finish constantly surprises me - we must be a breed of people who give up too easily. But success is in the head, not the body, fitness just makes it easier. There is definitely a market for some long distance wilderness rides, just don't call them "wild riding"!

Thanks for that background Steve and understand the reason and agree with the reason for limiting numbers. (Despite my comment I have no issue with 'mates races' - the field looks excellent and would embarrass me).

I recall great days out in that area either running (20 years ago doing some Munro bagging) or more recently cycling on and off road. Being 8+ hours e/w on the train puts me off travelling more often.

I did wonder if it was put up there as a BIG EVENT you would get loads of people entering who thought they could do it but on the other hand Stuart had only 40+ entries and 10ish did not make it to the start line so maybe not. Loops are preferable for the very reasons outlined.

I like doing a few events with people but also taking off on my own. I tend to prefer stopping overnight mostly so that I can see the views of what I am travelling through and use some of my expensive kit! My g/f calls me a solitary person [we have been dating 18 years and live seperately]

Next year I am looking to do a few more solo rides in Wales, CL loop (probably just the original single one), Outer Hebrides but I have also entered the Kielder 100. As slarge says there seems to be a lot of drop outs though I think bad weather was an issue in 2011.

Wow Steve, lots of insight there. Great to get some background too and glad you committed to the CL as I'm really looking forward to it.

Good points about the loop vs linear routes. Timing such events with bank holidays is always an option, gaining you an extra day for free. I remember doing the Isle of Man Polaris years ago which was organised over Easter weekend I think. Woudn't have been possible otherwise.

Re: my somewhat clumsy comment about the AZT(R) - I'm sure you're right, though indirectly Scott must surely gain some positive exposure for topofusion - not that I'm knocking that in any way, as his software does look pretty smart - even if it isn't his main motivator for promoting the trail.