We need gradient training, Plan A, off to the hills, Milton Abbas and Bulbarrow! Meet you in the Co-op car park at 09.00 – check. Penny encountered five floods; in different places and deeper and than last time. She pedaled on through all, and arrived late. I just arrived late….after taking pictures of sheep! |
Still up for the hills Penny took a look at my overshoes, “waterproof”? “No my new ones haven’t arrived yet, but I do have two plastic bags and two elastic bands” I commented hopefully! Plan A abandoned.
Plan B - to complete the inaugural North Dorset ride which I cut short after two punctures.
Decision made we headed off making a good start with hopes running high for the day. It was dry, relatively warm, now the frost had cleared and the sun was shining. Then taking a slight off-piste detour to avoid a hedge cutting tractor I encountered a slippery muddy bank at very close quarters. Penny’s caring side instinctively stepped in to help untangle arms and legs from bike and bushes. It was only then her less caring side realised she had missed a photo opportunity and she dissolved into fits of giggles.
Plan B - to complete the inaugural North Dorset ride which I cut short after two punctures.
Decision made we headed off making a good start with hopes running high for the day. It was dry, relatively warm, now the frost had cleared and the sun was shining. Then taking a slight off-piste detour to avoid a hedge cutting tractor I encountered a slippery muddy bank at very close quarters. Penny’s caring side instinctively stepped in to help untangle arms and legs from bike and bushes. It was only then her less caring side realised she had missed a photo opportunity and she dissolved into fits of giggles.
It really doesn't pay to be smug! Five miles up the road, pssssssssssssssst, a puncture. Its OK slime tyres, fantastic, bit of pumping and the tyre self-sealed. Perfect.
Three miles later puncture number two (little did I know it was also number three). Removing the thorn it was obvious no amount of pumping would self-seal that one. I called for the cavalry and walked the 2 ½ miles to the pick up point. It’s good to stretch tired leg muscles after a long, long bike ride!
We shall be staying clear of hedge trimmers for a while but all in all 63 miles, a good effort, but not without its challenges.
Amanda
Three miles later puncture number two (little did I know it was also number three). Removing the thorn it was obvious no amount of pumping would self-seal that one. I called for the cavalry and walked the 2 ½ miles to the pick up point. It’s good to stretch tired leg muscles after a long, long bike ride!
We shall be staying clear of hedge trimmers for a while but all in all 63 miles, a good effort, but not without its challenges.
Amanda