Last night's Cotic CC ride at Grenoside Woods was heaps of fun. Riding with friends is the absolute best.

Ahead of our Les Gets trip, we wanted to shakedown a few changes to our own bikes, test out new full face helmets and get Cotic CC events up and running again.

It was a very hot evening, but the shade of the woods was nice and it's always a treat to ride dusty trails in short sleeves. The pace was lovely and relaxed, we pushed up and sessioned sections of the trail, which has settled in very nicely after it's rebuild earlier this year.

One thing that had been bugging me personally was the re-worked 'Jolley's Gap' jump around half way down the track. I had it on lock before the rebuild, but it has been made bigger, with a faster run in and a steeper landing than before, and I hadn't ticked it off yet.

I'm not a naturally gifted jumper, I generally prefer steep and techy trails over airtime, but deep down I knew I had this jump in me. I'd rolled up to it a few times a couple of weeks ago, and decided not to go for it.

After some tips and gentle encouragement from Rich and Will, I dropped in behind them and decided if I got the jump before it nice and clean, which I had done on every run so far, I'd follow them over Jolley's. Repeatedly telling myself in my head; "stay relaxed, you got this" (does anyone else do that?!) I committed.

As Rich and Will had said, it felt nice and easy. Definitely big, but smooth and clean. I was very stoked.

This is exactly the kind of atmosphere we love about Cotic CC rides, whatever your level or goals, we always aim to foster a friendly and encouraging vibe, where everyone is welcome.

There was a great mix of bikes in the woods, well loved BFes, Rockets, Jehts and a brand spanking Magenta BFeMAX which looked stunning.

If you own a Cotic, no matter which one, new or second hand, you are already in the Cotic CC. Look out for more rides and events over the coming months.

Enjoy the sunshine,

Sam.