Demo team Sam and Darren spent last weekend at the South Lakes Bike Festival, and despite some pretty Cumbrian weather, had a great time. This laid back and super fun event felt like a breath of fresh air, no racing, no pressure, just sociable riding and a lovely friendly atmosphere; not to mention a party! We took the demo van to the SLBF where plenty of riders took the opportunity to shred some classic Lake District riding on a new Cotic. Some all day rides, some quick hour long laps and grins all round. Longshot geometry really does let you get away with murder on the technical trails surrounding the Kentmere Valley and beyond.

On the Friday night, local pub the Eagle and Child in Staveley had put on a charity ride to coincide with the festival, so after setting the stand up we rolled down the road to join in with that. I'm not sure how many were in the group, but it was a lot! A challenging climb followed by a screaming descent into Kentmere and we were greeted with a half way point booze stop! We settled for a beer and a bit of cake, leaving the Jagerbombs on this occasion! We needed lights for the last descent, known as Three Rivers, which made flying through the bracken on the fast narrow singletrack feel amazing, like being in a video game. Back to the pub at the end for a delicious Curry and a pint. Plenty of demo riders on the Saturday taking bikes on the various group rides, then a fun evening of local beer and live music, followed by more demos on the Sunday. It's a really nice weekend, and one you should definitely consider for next year. There's plenty to do for all the family and all skill levels. We need more events like this, organised just for the sheer fun of it by good people, we'll definitely be back.