Real World Riding is run by me; Steve MacKenzie, and was opened in 2014 – offering coaching and guiding for off-road cycling of all natures.

My background is in developmental outdoor education, management and youthwork, which might cause you to wonder – why a mountain biking company?

The answer is simple: Through my experience working for charities and small companies I’ve come to value people as individuals, developed a lot of experience in the mountains, and witnessed the life-affirming power of empowering others. Through British Cycling coaching and leadership qualifications I have been able to help a lot of people achieve their goals in riding.

The coaching work allows me to develop the skills and importantly confidence in those skills of riders of all standards, from those just starting out on canal paths, to riders who are racing Enduro, developing their jumping, and exploring way out of the trail centres essentially mountaineering on bikes.

My own riding experience ranges from riding around the woods as a kid and building ramps in the street, to overseas trips including bikepacking across the Alps, and around Mont Blanc, Enduro racing, exploring new mountain lines, riding the West Highland Way and even riding the infamous Megavalanche back in 2011.

For me a day’s riding should leave all clients with a smile, some new skills and confidence, some new knowledge and plans for the future.