The time trial is a stalwart of competitive cycling, proving a foundation for success for the likes of Graeme Obree, Chris Boardman and David Millar, not to mention the incomparable Miguel Indurain who managed to win entire Tours on the back of his contre le montre ability.

Of course in any time-based discipline meticulous planning has to be adhered to; the synchronisation of start and stop watches ensuring fair play and accuracy.

But what if there was a time trial in your own city? A route you could ride at any point in time, registering your time against other time trialists on differing machines? A city time trial? Barmy!

Not so in Edinburgh. The Arthur's Seat Challenge is open for all.

Mind you, there are those who will scoff at the mere 1.2km length of route, wondering how on earth this could be a 'challenge' and consigning the idea to a time when they have nothing better to do. But there's a reason for the short length.

For those not acquainted with Arthur's Seat it is a large lump of volcanic rock sitting at the bottom of the Royal Mile, towering above the new Scottish Parliament. It forms part of the lands of Holyrood Palace and so is technically owned by the Queen. And there is a road which runs roughly halfway up it.