So the second installment, Dartmoor.

Dartmoor is an area of moorland in the centre of Devon, England. Protected by a National Park status, it covers 368 sq miles. Approximately 2.5 times larger than Bodmin Moor on my previous trip back in October 2010. Dartmoor is known for its Tors - hills topped with outcrops of granite bedrock.

I have upgraded my sleeping mat system. Doing away with the Thermarest Z-Lite foam mat, just not up to the job. Still taking the Z-Lite as I feel I might use it, which is the big yellow thing on the back. Now trying out an Exped Synmat 7 with an in built pump. This will give me 7 cm of thickness plus with the added bonus of a  built in synthetic insulation, also available is a down feather option. This rolls up to no bigger than 4 baked bean tins. Clothing is improved with an Endura waterproof/breathable jacket. Sealskinz waterproof/breathable socks and gloves.

The bike has had an addition of a 20 mm riser handle bar, this helps me to lower the stem from the forks. The rear rack is replaced by a Topeak Expedition rack, more robust I feel. Lastly, something I thought I would never have on a bike, a kickstand!

As usual I have been following the weather patterns for the last few weeks. It should be fine, temperatures around 12-15 degrees for the day, lowing to 5-8 at night, very manageable.