UKC

It occurred to me at the weekend (peering down a hole on Bosherston Head at a route I've no intention of ever subjecting myself to) that more climbers will have heard of the route than the song that presumably 'christened' it. So (by I, Ludicrous):

https://youtu.be/PGDKTTNXH2w?si=oNWLbXO8vsuXkg_N

Ken Mackenzie! 

(This is going back a bit) my Baggy Point guide listed a climb called ‘Bike’ inside one of the blow holes - ‘allegedly attempted in descent by the barmy Barnstaple bicyclist’ .. always made me smile - there was a rotting bike frame in the matto grosso inside the hole..

The term peaked in usage in 1824, and doesn't seem to have spiked when your song was released. 

Although the route could have been named after it, I contend that it was just named after the phrase.

The song was released in 1987, and the route was named in 1995.

I suspect it was more the Pink Floyd theme at that crag. But fun nevertheless.

https://youtu.be/POlaR26dD1Y?si=X5F3i2Zjvoyag6lM

Why not both, combining a notable feature and the naming convention of the time?

The bike frame was still clearly visible on the exit slopes c.1980. No basket or bell or things to make it look good that I could see. Thankfully also no evidence of a Barmy Barnstable Bicyclist as an attempted two wheel decent would be a one-way trip to oblivion! 

Fair enough. That was slightly before my time. Pink Void and Heart of the Sun were enough excitement for me.

Being good friends with both of the first ascentionists, I can confidently say that the route is definitely named after this song.

Alan

Cheers, I was hoping someone might confirm it!

Alan - did any of you meet the Barmy Barnstaple Bicyclist? It would be good to confirm his alleged attempt at descent 😅

- I once ate six mars bars in half an hour!.

- Did you Ken?

Great track