About Red Balloon

Red Balloon Cycling is me, John. I've always loved moving on two wheels and I've been lucky enough to have cycled in many countries, including 4 years as a cycle guide leading 2 and 3 week cycling tours in Europe.

I returned to the homeland in 2015 and immediately fell in love with bikepacking and gravel riding in Scotland. 

I’m First Aid qualified, have completed the weeklong Summer Mountain Leader training, and I’m comfortable with most trailside mechanicals. 

I’m upbeat and good fun, but the safety and success of a trip is paramount and I’ll happily be the unpopular person saying “time to be back on the bikes” when required. 

Red Balloon Cycling Approach;

Measure twice, cut once. Preparation is everything. It’s far better to spend an extra hour double-checking than to find yourself halfway up a mountain in a hoolie with no waterproofs. I love it, it’s about finding that sweet spot where you’re correctly equipped for the adventure without being weighed down.