MOUNTAIN bikers have been issued with guidance during lockdown.

Scottish Cycling (SC) has outlined a series of dos and dont's following the Scottish Government's go-ahead for people to exercise more than once a day.

There are four rules cyclists and mountain bikers must adhere to under the new SC guidelines:

  • Only ride from your home – it is not essential travel to go mountain biking or cycling and you may face enquiries from the police if you are stopped en route or returning from a ride. All Forestry and Land Scotland car parks and trails, including the 7stanes sites, remain closed;
  • Do not go far – whilst you can go exercise for longer, we recommend riding close to where you live and not into remote areas – think more smaller loops rather than one longer remote ride;
  • Ride well within your limits – only ride on trails that are that you are very confident you will be able to ride safely and within your competency. It is highly unlikely that mountain rescue are back to full operations – consider the fact that a full rescue may not be possible and may take longer to get to you;
  • Only cycle with members of your own household - keep a safe distance when passing other cyclists or pedestrians.

Mountain biking trails such as the 7stanes at Glentress, Peebles, and Innerleithen are closed until further notice to restrict travel to the trails and for safety as they are not being maintained as they were before lockdown.

However, walking trails owned by Forestry and Land Scotland are open to members of the public who can access them without using transport.