Tuesday group ride reports

24 April 2012

Well weren't we lucky with the weather!!

Nine riders: Les, Pauline, Steve, Richard, Russell, Keith, Andrew, Jim and myself were off on time from the start and almost immediately up on to the open downs with wide sweeping views all around. Conditions 'under tyre' were pretty good considering the amount of precipitation in the days prior to the ride but care had to be taken with the grooves worn in the chalky ground of the tracks. After about 30 minutes of steady progress Andrew suffered a simultaneous double puncture of both front and back tyres. During the changing of both inner tubes Iain and Bob turned up and joined the group for the rest of the ride.

Away again and after further downland tracks past open meadows covered by swathes of cowslips a descent (via a free range pig farm) was made into the Thames valley. Somewhere before the descent I understand that Richard briefly departed his bike but fortunately there was no damage to man or machine. Having reached the outskirts of Aston Tirold a return was made onto the high downland via The Fair Mile, the scene of Robert's trial by cloying mud earlier this year. This time the ascent was easily achieved in complete contrast to the earlier conditions.

Just past the summit of the ride your leader noted a thorny twig had attached itself to his tyre and investigation showed the puncture point to be leaking slightly. Remarkably the twig stayed in place for several miles more before just after having passed through a splendid bluebell wood the tyre went down. A rapid inner tube replacement was achieved with the help of the team but as significant time had been lost with this and the earlier punctures a short cut back to the pub was devised. The pub was reached on time after a ride of 19 miles or so.

The food and drink in The Four Points was very acceptable. Thanks for joining me on the ride!

Paul.

 

17 April 2012

For once the weather report was correct, it showed the rain clearing from the west around 10.00am and we arrived in Dorchester with the sun shining – result! Everyone seemed keen to go, Paul, Keith, Steve & Pauline, Dave, Frank, Jim, Bob, Richard , Robert and Iain, and we were all pleased to see the return of Andrew.

It did not take long to leave Dorchester, over the main Wallingford road heading north on 3 miles of bridleway, (an old Roman Road) through Berinsfield and eventually a left turn on to the road. Heading towards Clifton Hampton we were soon on another 3 mile bridleway, this bridleway (Thame Lane) was impassible a few years ago. Robert came off somewhere along here and I fell as I tried to leave a rut, which in turn caused Bob, behind me, to fall or maybe Pauline ran into him. Pauline ended up in the brambles, and not sure if Richard was involved or just stopped to observe the shambles. We continued on, into the wind, around Culham and past the International School. We crossed the Thames in Culham via Sutton Bridge and on to more bridleway when we turned off Drayton Road.

As we approached the next road, the bridleway surface changed to tarmac and passing some houses we came to the road and it was here that Keith had an animated discussion with the driver of a 4x4 who seemed to object to us being on 'his' road. He was informed that it was a bridleway and that we had every right to cycle on it. He protested that no one had told him that it was a bridleway, even though this discussion was taking place right by the obvious bridleway sign. He then said something along the lines of not minding if we did use the road!

Soon more bridleway and we were over the A34 and eventually, after following an old canal and about 4 miles of bridleway, we re-crossed the A34 into Drayton. Now another named bridleway, Drayton East Way, into Sutton Courtenay and then closer to Didcot Power Stations, mass composting and gas recovery from landfill, lovely! This was followed by Appleford, Long Wittenham, Pendon Museum, Little Wittenham, then back across the Thames into Dorchester and the George Hotel.

The George Hotel worked out very well, with good food and drink at a reasonable cost. It must have impressed because comment was made that we should consider it for the Christmas Lunch. About 22 miles I believe.

No punctures, no problems (unless you count Mr 'It's my road').

Iain.

 

3 April 2012

Despite a poor weather forecast and a ride in distant and unfamiliar territory, 10 riders found the Maiden's Head in Whitwell although one, Paul Greenough, missed the start and did his own ride (mobile coverage appears poor in that area and he was unable to contact me).

The riders who started at 10.00 were Bob Cheesewright, Dave Moore-Haines, Iain, Keith, Les, Steve and Pauline, Richard Williams and Robert.

We set off in pleasant weather and were soon off-road onto the first hill. The tracks and minor roads took us roughly eastwards to the edge of Stevenage where we rode parallel to the A1M for about half a mile. Unfortunately we then joined a track favoured by the fly-tippers and Bob rode over a protruding nail which delayed us while we changed the tube. We soon left the Stevenage area and were riding on pleasant bridleways to the farm at Almshoe Bury. After dropping down to the B656, we passed the Rusty Gun restaurant and took a mix of minor roads and tracks to Gosmore.

About a mile outside Gosmore we joined the 'Public Highway' towards Preston where Iain realised his rear tyre was slowly deflating. By the time we had reached the end of this track it was clear that we would not be able to cover the planned distance before 13.00 so we chose not to ride the loop passing near Great Offley but instead took tracks and minor roads towards Kings Walden. We were soon on the road back to Whitwell where the group split into those pressed for time and those with some remaining energy. The latter tackled the off-road climb to Bendish when we experienced the only moments of unpleasant weather, a brief hailstorm.

The pub, which had opened at 9.45 for us, was ready and served us promptly. Paul joined us and we discovered he had also ridden on many of the tracks the main group had used (all the right tracks but not necessarily in the right order – to misquote Eric Morecambe).

I failed to record our ride on 3 April but I did record my recce so I have included that link below. The sharp eyed will notice several differences between our ride and the recce.
a-trip.com/tracks/view/100146

Jim W

 

 

27 March 2012

The weather certainly held out, which was good – if it had been wet it would have to be shorter. I don't remember a ride in recent time when so many people fell off, no apparent serious injuries, although Steve may feel a bit stiff by Wednesday.

Keith, Paul, Dave M-H, Jim, John S, Steve and Pauline, Robert and myself all set off at 10.05, heading north from The Grand Union (new name of the pub) on the Grand Union Canal for about 3½ miles before taking to fields all the way into Little Brickhill which, you may have guessed, is on a hill. Crossing the A5 we were soon off road and on to single track (Broomhills Wood), up and down, twisting and turning. I was standing at the bottom of one twisting downhill when Steve arrived leading with his right shoulder. I swear that the ground shook as he hit the deck.

Still up and down and two of the hills were so steep we had to push the bikes up (Back Wood). On the steepest one there was a BANG, someone shooting at us? No, it was Jim's front tyre! A good excuse for a rest. There appears to be quite a bit of single track in this area, some of it requiring a confident/brave riding style. Onward and out to a byway by a church on the edge of Bow Brickhill. Down the road to another bridleway taking us into the Aspley Heath area and Bow Brickhill Park. We had now achieved the half way point and the highest point of the ride, so it was all downhill from now on.

Using a mix of bridleway and single track (I fell off here, twice) we continued east to the gatehouse, Fullers Earth Lodge, and along the road for a few hundred yards. A new bridleway and we were definitely heading back now, through a derelict farm to a road, over the junction, more bridleway and we were on part of the Greensands Ridge.

This area seems to be administered by the Greensands Trust but much of the area is part of the Woburn Abbey Estate which is part of the (Duke of) Bedford Estate which apparently owns much of Bloomsbury. A sharp left turn along here took us down another bridleway and this is part of the Milton Keynes Boundary Walk, to the road leading to the A5. The roundabout was fairly clear and soon we were cycling up the tarmac at the edge of the A5 to another bridleway. 100yds of road and another bridleway into Stockgrove Country Park, down a permissive bridleway through Rushmere Park and with only about half a mile of road we were back on the canal, now only 1½ miles to the cars and the pub.

This was very close to being the pub with no beer, :( Tribute had just run out as we arrived, Dutchman, only two pints pulled, Doom Bar, I had the last pint and only Eagle IPA was left, the food did not take too long and we all went off happy :-D. Some were a bit battered and scratched but otherwise OK I think? :-). About 20 miles in total but only 2½ miles on roads.

Iain W.

 

20 March 2012

By the time I had pedalled to the start – a mere 5 minutes from home – eleven people (including myself) were gathered ready for the off.

The eleven were Leslie, Pauline, Steve, Robert, Russell, Jim W, Dave, Keith, Iain, Frank and Paul. It soon transpired that Iain was going to do his own ride and see us at the pub for lunch.

We were off on time and immediately onto an off road section leading predominantly downhill towards Holtspur. Back onto road and up the first hill of the day to cross the A40 and over the M40 heading in the direction Berghers Hill. The weather was lovely – quite warm and sunny and the off road sections were much dryer than when I checked them ten days or so before.

Everything was going really well until just past Cliveden when Dave got a puncture – a massive thorn straight through the tyre and protection strip. Dave's puncture was rapidly followed by one in my front tyre and yet another in Pauline's back tyre (I think). All were fixed pretty quickly and with only 30 minutes delay we were off again until, when passing along the western edge of Burnham Beeches, a loud report was heard from behind. One of Dave's tires had suffered a blow-out! After a new inner tube and a gaffer tape fix of the tyre rim/wall, we carried on carefully with thoughts of how to reduce the ride length somewhat.

On through Hedgerley and then Gerrards Cross to just outside Seer Green, everything now going well, but always about 30 minutes behind schedule. To recover lost time the final off-road section was cut out in favour of a direct route through Beaconsfield new town to the The Royal Standard of England and welcome drinks and eats. We were joined in the pub by John S, Jim H and Iain back from his own ride. The beer/drinks were good and the food reasonable.

Thanks to all for coming. I'll put off-road section we missed out into a further ride from The Royal Standard at a future date.

Paul.

 

13 March 2012

It was decidedly chilly when we met at the Denham Memorial Hall that morning. Myself, Russell, Keith and Paul arriving by bike and Steve & Pauline, Robert, Jim, Frank and Bob (raring to go after his 28 mile warm-up yesterday) arriving by car.

We set off though the quiet village of Denham until we reached the extremely busy A40. Here some of us proceeded with great care and much trepidation to reach the far side where we met those who had chosen to use the safer option of the pedestrian bridge. Using Southlands Road to reach the Denham Road we climbed up the hill towards Iver Heath and turned right into Sevenhills Road (should that be Sevenundulations Road?).

From there we went on to Black Park, Fulmer Common and Stoke Common. Here we did a figure of eight circuit touching the now demolished One Pin pub, Little Jennings Farm, Abbey Park Farm, Nashdom Abbey, Clivedon and crossing over at Littleworth Common. Then on to Burnham Beeches where we stopped for Coffee. Carrying on to Fulmer then via a ford (to clean the bikes) up the only hill of the day over the M40 and meeting the A40 at Tatling End. From here we then had a fast downhill sprint back to home.

We lunched at The Falcon arriving early at 12.35 and were joined by Ray who was looking very fit. Food, drink and service very reasonable and we had our usual room to the rear of the pub. Distance covered just under 24 miles, no accidents, no punctures and the only complaints apart from being a road ride were cold hands and feet.

Thanks to all who attended, it would not have been the same without you.

David M-H.

 

6 March 2012

A cold, overcast morning saw, for the second week, but seven souls gathered at the Black Horse: Iain, Robert, Paul, Richard, Dave MH, Jim W and myself.

A good warmer up the side of the vale, through Lye Green to Moors Farm, Spencer's Farm, down to Bottom Farm and up and over to the canal at Bankmill Bridge. The biggest height gain of the day up to Potten End, but as it is a long 'gentle' incline it was easily surmounted. A little bit of interesting wood, no bridleway or footpath sign! As we entered the 5 mile stretch of off-road from here to above Aldbury, we lost Paul with the opposite of a fixed wheel – permanent disconnection between pedal and wheel!

From above Aldbury it was down to the canal and on to Dudswell, up to Tring Lodge and thence back to the pub via Ashley Green for a final downhill off-road direct to the pub where Paul was waiting our return. Considering the rain on Sunday the ground was pretty good.

Although we got back at 5 past one, the pub was very busy and it was nearly two before our food arrived but everyone seemed to think it was worth the wait. Once again it was good to see Jim H at the pub, and he has been on his bike!

Russell.

 

31 January 2012

On a fine sunny morning – incredibly cold – Brian, myself, Paul, Bob C, Jim W, John S, Keith, Russell, Rob, Steve and Pauline all gathered at the Four Horseshoes in Checkendon for the first road ride of 2012 and in fact the first road ride for many months.

Pauline arrived with her lovely new Scott road bike with clips, which she clearly is enjoying and gave us all a cracking demonstration how to ride it very fast up hills.

We started off at 10am going through Checkendon and enjoyed our first long sweeping downhill towards Well Place where we turned left along a tree lined road with wonderful views towards Oxford and Dorchester. We continued along undulating country lanes to the A4074 where we cycled about 200 yards and circled the roundabout returning to quiet roads again. Here we skirted Ewelme, past the Grundon depot, where we were passed by quite a few big waste lorries!

Continuing on we rode up Swyncombe Hill, the only real hill of the ride to be honest; there were quite a few spells when we were clearly riding uphill but gently. We stopped nearly at the top of the hill to view the snowdrops at St Botolph's Church where a kind gentleman and his wife, also members of the Chiltern Society took a photo of us. (The result is of a rather motley lot I think)! The snowdrops were out but only just and by the time we arrived the sun had disappeared but at least we went!

We continued up towards Cookley Green, down towards Park Corner and then along passing Nuffield towards Stoke Row where we had another rather picturesque nice gentle downhill towards Kingwood Common where we turned right to Cane End. Then back along lovely wooded roads towards Exlade Street returning to the pub in bright sunshine at 12.40 having covered 26 miles almost exactly.

We had pre-ordered at the pub and after a reasonable wait the food arrived and was very good too. The pub could have been a bit warmer or were we just very cold? A lovely country ride along quiet roads with lovely views – no punctures, very little wind and so much nicer than my last one!

Les.

 

24 January 2012

Well, with a weather forecast like that and the dull, dreary, wet morning, I expected to find nobody at the start of the ride.

But that wasn't to be and nine riders set off into the rain from The Palmer Arms, Dorney, more or less on time. The stalwart nine were Les, Pauline, Steve, Keith, Frank, Bob, Russell, Richard and the ride leader.

Off we went across Dorney common to the Eton College Rowing Lake for a quick spin beside the Olympic course before crossing the river using the very slippery Summerleaze bridge. We all got across safely and wended our way through Bray past The Fat Duck (of Hester Blumenthal fame) and so on over the A 404(M) to the first true bridle path past Ockwells Manor. This provided some aqueous sport (my grandchildren would love this said Leslie) before we once again took to some short road sections through Stud and Moneyrow Greens.

Just outside Moneyrow Green Keith and Bob decided to take the short cut back to the start while the rest of us proceeded onto the next bridleway section. Part way along the cry of puncture was heard and the party gathered around Frank's bike to fix it. The weather was not much better and time was passing so we decided to shorten the route as far as possible and this went well until the leader tried to take the group through Syngenta's Jealot's Hill Research Station.

I hasten to add that this was due to some inaccurate Memory Map mapping info. Anyway back onto the original route through Tickleback Row and past Drown Boy Pond and Hawthorn Hill to a lovely fast slightly downhill bridleway along the side of Chawridge Bank nature reserve. Shortly after this the second cry of puncture was heard – Richard's bike this time. Once fixed we were off for the final push back to The Palmer Arms, which we duly reached just a couple of minutes past 1pm having completed a ride of some 23 miles.

The pub was cheerfully busy but after not too long a delay the ordered food arrived and a convivial time was had by all. We met Jim in the pub and we were all pleased to see that he is doing well.

Despite the somewhat less than ideal weather I do hope that you all enjoyed the ride. Thanks so much for coming. See you next week,

Paul.

 

17 January 2012

The crisp and bright morning brought out many riders including uninjured skiers and a healthy Brian Maunder – welcome back.

Iain joined us at the Peacock but did his own ride to avoid stressing his knee. The riders were Brian, Dave, Frank, John Shipley, Les, Paul, Steve and Pauline, Richard, Robert, Russell and myself. After a gentle warm-up we were soon really warm climbing Wain Hill and then enjoying the descent (mostly) to the A4010. From there it was a steady road climb through Loosley Row and on to Lacey Green. A bridleway led us almost to Great Hampden where we took the road to the Hampton House bridleway.

One or two squishy patches in the woods provided a challenge but the paths were mostly in good condition. There were some nice downhill sections again with one or two challenges; Dave found a patch of ice and fell in front of Les who managed to avoid him and stay on her bike. He was able to ride on but we expect to hear tales next week of technicolour bruising.

The final serious climb/walk was Whiteleaf which has sometimes offered splendid views, but sadly the early crisp and clear had become dull haze by the time we arrived. The remaining miles were a cruise back to the Peacock.

The pre-ordered food was presented very soon after our return to the Peacock and was enjoyed by all except Iain who was late returning, having suffered a puncture on a muddy part of his ride. Luckily, his food was refreshed with hot chips so he too was able to enjoy his meal.

Jim.

 

10 January 2012

A select group of six consisting of Bob, Robert, Jim W, Andrew, Russ and myself set off on a very mild and dry morning from The Old Orchard.

We went along the Colne Valley towards Denham, passing through the Quarry Trail and Country Park, before a short section of road took us through Denham Village to Higher Denham. Here we had the first climb of the day up Broken Gate Lane, followed by a lovely swoop down Caps Wood where we found a fallen tree blocking the track, however we managed to find a way round and continued on down to the Misbourne valley. At this point the opportunity to ford the river was declined in favour of the bridge; this was now the fourth time we had crossed the Mighty Misbourne, and the eleventh river or canal bridge so far.

After a long climb out of the valley we had another short road section along Denham Lane, before turning right and joining our old friend Shire Lane for about five miles to Chorleywood. From here there was a short road section taking us downhill through Heronsgate village back to the Colne Valley again, and over seven more bridges making a grand total of eighteen in all. I wonder if this is a Tuesday group record?

The last bridge was at Springwell Lock, and from here it was a short ride along the Colne Valley Trail back to the pub where we were joined for a very nice lunch by Ray, who had walked along the canal from Rickmansworth.

In all we covered just short of 19 miles, crossed 18 bridges, had 1 puncture and 4 rode to the start.

Richard.

 

3 January 2012

The weather forecast was not good – but nonetheless Leslie, Paul, Jim W, Keith, Frank, Robert, Iain, Richard and Dave all assembled for a 10 o'clock start from the Black Horse in Great Missenden.

In fact there was a feeling of optimism because, although the wind was still strong, the rain had all but ceased. Easy going through Great Missenden and up Sustrans cycle route 57 to Prestwood, before descending via Hotley Bottom to cross the Rignall Road and make our way up Kings Lane to Cobblershill. By now a good up/down rhythm was well established – so with all the health and safety warnings given we set off to cross the valley to Little Hampden. The steep, wet chalk gully down claimed two victims who made gracefully executed forced dismounts.

As we arrived in Little Hampden it was thought for reasons not clear at the time that Iain had a puncture – but no, he saved that for 10 minutes later. As we skirted Little Hampden Common the rain, which had virtually held off until then, decided we were getting away too easily and started to increase – Keith wondering if in fact it was sleet. As we enjoyed the long descent to Chequers the rain continued to increase, so huddled under the entrance gate to Chequers, (we must have made a fine picture for the CCTV!), we decided to call it a day and ride back along the road to Great Missenden – a fast journey time given the 50mph wind in our backs, which was just as well since it saved me from having to stop to fix a slow puncture.

Back in the pub, just before 12 – a record!! We were welcomed with a log fire and pleasant service. Sadly Ray had not fully anticipated our earlier than planned lunch, so arrived as we were just about finishing – it was nice though to see him looking so well.

John S.

27 December 2011

The weather was warm and dry although not sunny. Susannah, Dave MH's daughter joined us making 9 with Frank, Iain, Robert, Lesley, Andrew, Jim W and leader Hazel.

The ride was from Greenford to Camden Lock along the towpath. The pace was gentle at first but fortified by coffee at Camden Lock the return was speedy. The total distance was around 21 miles with one puncture (Jim). Patrick was still recovering from a seasonal bug but joined us for lunch. Christmas seems to have dented appetites as many ordered starters and no main courses.

Hazel.

 

20 December 2011

Eleven keen riders, namely Keith, Russell, Jim W, Richard, Robert, Steve, Pauline, Bob, Les, Paul and the writer met in good time at The Plough and we pre-ordered lunch.

We set off on time up the lane to Flaunden in hazy sunshine and with the ice on the puddles melting. We passed the radar mast and looped down and up through Baldwin's Wood and out into Flaunden Bottom. Going up the valley we branched off left and up the steep bends on the bridleway to Ashridge Farm. We were already noticing the amount of water lying in the puddles and slippery conditions but all slogged it out onto the road and all now plastered liberally in the sticky clay.

While grouping up and poking at our bikes with sticks to remove some of the worst mud, Pauline noticed her front tyre was flat. Steve donned protective gear and tackled the tyre and as we waited Robert noticed he also had a flat to mend. Not pleasant tasks considering the state of the bikes. The conditions had worsened considerably since my recce last Wednesday and with the delay I decided to cancel my loop around Tylers Hill (another potentially sticky clay area).

We therefore proceeded on up through Ley Hill and across Moors Farm towards Whelpley Hill. Again the bridleways got progressively worse and after some hard pedalling we arrived at White Hill. Now Jim had a puncture and also at the top of the hill Richard had another. Now heading North on the bridleway to Bottom Farm we plugged through the mud now turned to slurry by the tractors. We climbed up and over the A41 and took the relatively easy track down to Bourne End.

Joining the canal we went as far as Boxmoor before climbing up along an old road and on again up to Sheethanger Common. We now joined the variable bridleway towards Bovingdon where Pauline needed more air in her front tyre having noticed it going down again. We were now running late so we cracked on through mud, leaves and puddles not caring about the state we were in. I phoned The Plough to confirm our progress and now on the final road section, we made good time and got back to the pub at about 1.30.

Jim H was already having his lunch, having nearly given up on seeing us. We brushed off as much mud as possible (and Les hosed down her bike) before entering the pub, where the food was served before some had even got to the table. The food and friendly service were excellent and enjoyed by all. Certainly quite a tough ride due to the wet and muddy conditions under foot, but there were no incidents apart from the 4 and a half punctures.

Thanks to all who came and happy hosing.
Merry Christmas
Andrew.

 

13 December 2011

After a very wet and windy night the gods smiled down on us and the dawn broke to a dry, chilly day but wet underfoot.

Keith, Richard and myself arrived by bike with Steve & Pauline, Russell, Ian & Robert, Leslie & Brian, John S. Paul, James, Jim and Bob arriving by car. 14 of us set off with Brian opting out due to lack of fitness.

The route was the same as the last time we were here (when we decided it would be an ideal venue for the Christmas Ride) but in reverse order. First to Harefield, then South Harefield, then taking the bridle path down to Bayhurst Wood. Ground quite slippery with James falling off due to an encounter with "a matchstick". On through Mad Bess Wood and then into Copse Wood. The conditions here were pretty dire with last night's rain and continuous use by horses making progress difficult. The mud and the ruts claimed a victim here and John S. fell injuring his thumb (hope it's getting better John).

Back on to Ducks Hill Road and turning left into Jackets Lane. The condition of the bridle path here was good and we arrived at Bishop's Wood Park without mishap. From here we had a fast downhill stretch via Woodcock Hill to the Aquadrome. We stopped here for sherry, coffee and mince pies at a convenient location with table, bench seats and dustbin and were joined by Brian, who had completed a short ride on his own.

Duly refreshed we pressed on to the canal where, due to a navigational error by our leader (probably caused by too much sherry) and later a puncture by Robert, the ride was shortened to enable us to arrive back at the venue in time to "Wash and Brush up". We were joined at The Old Orchard by Roger, Ray and later by Martin, so 17 of us sat down for lunch with Robert abstaining. It was nice to have our own room and the food, when it arrived, was good and plentiful. Despite making a few errors with the order the staff were very pleasant and apologetic and, considering how busy they were, coped well. I thought the cost was reasonable with the kitty covering most of the drinks bill.

I hope you all enjoyed the occasion.
Dave M-H.

 

6 December 2011

What is there to report? Weather good, route superb (obviously), ground conditions excellent, no punctures, no falls, no forgotten saddles, company marvellous and food good (if a tad slow, they were busy).

Some very early arrivals at the Three Horseshoes and all, Paul, Jim, Dave, Leslie, Pauline, Steve, John S, Keith, Bob, Iain, Richard and myself, were there in plenty of time. After a couple of hundred yards down the hill we turned up the bridleway towards Ragman's Lane, waiting a short way up Bob was nowhere to be seen; going back I found him walking and he decided he'd rather do his own thing.

Arriving at Claymoor Park I was glad that all had arrived without any punctures as on the recce I'd had two between the pub and this point. Going down the hill from Parmoor I couldn't see how I'd come off on the recce as it was a pretty straightforward descent. Mustn't dither next time.

As I foretold, we all walked up the hill from Hambledon and again later from Shillingridge Wood. Back at the pub just after 1.00 I was very relieved we'd been incident free as I knew time would be tight. Bob was at the pub and had done all the ride with the exception of the drop into the Hambledon Valley so I think it was a good ride for everyone.

Hope you all enjoyed it and see you next week
Russ.

 

29 November 2011

With hindsight a very stalwart eight of us joined me at the Plough Inn, Steve, Pauline, John S, Paul, Iain, Robert, Frank and Jim, at Eastbury (just along the road from Lambourn) on a blustery wet day.

Weather forecast for the day very bad and we were all hoping for a miracle – not our day for miracles as it turned out! While driving over I was listening to the traffic news and decided that the only person the road reports would not affect was me; it seemed everything north of the M4 had problems. However, Steve and Pauline were already there when I arrived followed by most of the others on time. Iain and Robert rang saying would I wait for them, they were just coming off the motorway.

The answer was yes of course! In the meantime Jim found out to his horror that he had left his saddle on the garage floor! We scoured the pub and found three bikes, none of which had perfect saddles but one which was sort of fixed by putting some tubing(?) or metal pipe round the stem! All very technical. We finally left at 10.20 with Jim riding his bike with a very low saddle looking like one of these kids you see riding round with their legs nearly bent double! We set off on road, wondering if the weather was clearing, towards Lambourn. There we soon took to the bridleways uphill passing through the gallops and riding on towards the Ridgeway. I seem to remember a touch of blue sky somewhere along this section! As we started climbing up towards the Ridgeway it was clear that the wind was rising and fortunately pushing us up the hills! However, when we reached the Ridgeway we were very exposed riding along the top of the escarpment. The full ferocity of the wind made it at times very difficult to stay upright and was a bit of a battle on occasions to keep going.

There are some wonderful views along this section but I don't think we saw many of them. This was quite an easy ride when I reckied it! I even considered putting an extra loop in it! Thank god I didn't. Not long after reaching the Ridgeway Jim very sensibly took what turned out to be an excellent decision to return to base on the road. His legs were being put through a huge workout being bent almost double. Had we known what faced us we would have probably gone with him! John and Iain both had punctures along this section both repaired quickly and without fuss. Meanwhile the wind was doing its best to throw us off the route and some miles later when turning off the Ridgeway back towards Lambourn I for one was hoping that the weather might relent, or at least that we may be a bit protected from the wind – how wrong I was.

The wind kept blowing and it started to rain! We took off downhill, nearly home when we struck that most amazing sticky mud that caked all our wheels and made it impossible to ride without continually cleaning the tyres. I swear my bike doubled in weight! At times you could not push the bike forwards without digging out mud from the forks. We all walked a lot of this seemingly quite benign section – I rode it the week before without too much effort. To be honest I had not even looked at the time but by the time I arrived at the top of the hill it was 1.45! I tried to ring the pub but no reception! We however now, blissfully, had reached a tarmac road and the route was all downhill. What a relief.

At least it was not cold – the ride would have easily qualified for the worst ride ever had it been and as it was it was very very far from being one of the best ones! We all rode back to the pub and were just in time to order dinner (last orders 2.15) and had a good meal well served. We left the pub at about 3pm and I arrived home at just before 4! The bike is still in the car, it was dark when I arrived home, and I am just about to put on my boots and drag it out and see if I can get rid of all that mud!

Not the best ride we have had and certainly as far as I am concerned quite the muddiest one – however I think we did enjoy some of it some of the time! If nothing else certainly eventful. Someone did suggest that I did a road ride for my next one! Good idea.

Les.