It’s been raining all week and the weather forecast was poor. Miraculously the rain held off but there was plenty slush on the ground to make it an interesting ride. Dave joined us for the first time on his new bike for both the Early morning and the Main rides, we hope to see you again soon. Christian also graced us with his presence and humour.
Setting off from the Inn on the Pond, we were still in Merser’s Park when we got our first puncture. The hedges had recently been cut and Alan was the victim. Diverting away from the NCR21 we took the road right up onto the top of the ridge amongst the groans from those who’d not yet warmed up (come on the Early Morning rides!).
After everyone had woken up, we hit the first muddy section going across the ridge to Gravelly Hill. The steep descents just before the A22 were extra slippery, which Gareth later realised. With all the recent rain the route was planned with extra road sections that were mainly on the inclines. This left some good off road down hill sections to test the grip of the tyres, the brakes and your nerves.
Gathering at Tilburstow Common after a moderate road climb feeling were muttered that there were too many hills. A short cut was offered and declined, and then Mark decided to get a puncture. Using the road to make up some lost time, we then headed down past Garston Park where it was really muddy slippery and smelly. The cows in the neighbouring field looked on in disgust.
Completely covered in mud we ventured in to Knights for a posh cup of tea. They were extremely tolerant of us, however we did notice that they were armed with brushes and dustpans as we left.
The route back was plain and simple as we used the sandy path to link up with the NCR21 to get us back to the Inn on the Pond.
A challenging little ride given the weather conditions that was full of fun and banter all the way.
Richard Sterry