02/10/2023
Welcome to the Liphook Pumptrack page.
Here our goal is to gain interest and support for a pumptrack in Liphook in place of the old skatepark next to the Library.
A pumptrack is a great way for people of all ages to get outside, work up a sweat, practice their skills and have a lot of fun in the process!
Liphook currently doesn't have any amenities for cycling and this would be a great place to start.
My top pick for the contractor to build the track would be Velosolutions, who have a vast portfolio of brilliant Work. Preferably an asphalt track as it is great in all weather and allows different people to use it e.g. bike, scooter etc. However a dirt surface is also a more maintenance heavy option.
They recently completed the construction of a track in Alton that opened back in late December 2022. Asphalt tracks although not the cheapest but they are highly durable and require the least maintenance as they wear much less than dirt or clay tracks. They can also be ridden when wet to almost the same degree as when they are dry.
The main advantages of this type of track are:
• Works all kinds of bikes, skateboards, longboards, inline skates and scooters.
• High amount of grip.
• Fastest rolling.
• Almost maintenance free.
• Weather resistant
• Pleasant on the eye when surrounded by grass.
Main disadvantages:
• High initial cost.
• Not modifiable.
• Needs to be built by professionals.
• Potential legal work required.
Advantages of a dirt track are:
•Modifyable after initial build.
•Can be built DIY.
•Most economic building method.
•Safer for riding mistakes.
•Can look like modern artistic masterpieces.
Disadvantages of a dirt track are:
•Not rideable with skateboards, longboards or inline skates.
•High-maintenance.
•Not that weather-resistant.
•Will deteriorate over time.
I know they are not cheap but depending on interest and what funding is available from the council, maybe crowdfunding a portion would be possible.
I have included a couple of pictures of the pumptrack over in Alton (it looks a little gloomy in late December) and a link to the Velo Solutions website for people to have a look at their outstanding portfolio.
Please like and share this as much as possible. I hope to hear people's points of view and discuss possibilities further!
Thanks for reading, Matt.
https://velosolutions.com/asphalt-pump-tracks/
