Donside to Deeside Adventure Trial Returns for Its Third Running

Next Sunday, 30th August, BAMCC will host the third running of the Donside to Deeside Adventure Trial (D2D), bringing together almost 150 motorcyclists from across the UK.

D2D has always aimed to introduce new people to off-road motorcycling, and this year continues that tradition. The entry includes experienced off-road riders alongside complete beginners, all joining us for a day of sport and the superb Aberdeenshire scenery.

Based at the Grampian Transport Museum in Alford, riders will tackle a northern loop of approximately 60 miles in the morning. The route includes multiple off-road excursions into the Donside forests of Whitehaugh, Corrennie and Gartly, as well as a further off-road section at Wheedlemont. These stages will feature short tests of bike-handling skills and navigation.

After a lunch stop back in Alford, the afternoon loop heads south into the Deeside forests, taking in Bennachie, Langaddie and others. Sluie Woods, outside Banchory, will also host a speed test on its rough gravel roads.

For the first time this year, D2D will include two more extreme off-road sections for the more experienced off road riders. These sections will provide a significantly tougher challenge than in previous years, incorporating steep climbs and descents, boggy terrain and stream crossings.

Clerk of the Course Derek Ramsay is the driving force behind D2D. The countless hours he dedicates each year to organising and delivering the event are remarkable. It is a year-round commitment, and planning for the 2027 event is already underway. Clubs such as BAMCC rely on people like Derek and his committee, not only to develop these ideas but to ensure they become reality. If you see Derek next weekend, please take a moment to thank him—without his dedication, this event would not exist.

Events like D2D depend on the club's strong working relationships with Forest and Land Scotland, private landowners, the Grampian Transport Museum, Police Scotland and other emergency services. We would also like to thank Bob Minto for his continued support of the event.

In addition, we are indebted to the club members and volunteers who staff the forests, special tests and the event HQ in Alford, helping to ensure the day runs safely and smoothly.

To all our competitors: enjoy your day, take time to appreciate the scenery, and please manage your speed within the forests. By respecting the rules we have put in place, you help protect this brilliant event, yourselves and the unique environment of Aberdeenshire.

Donald Young
President, BAMCC

Image - Bill McGregor