Thame Trip

Just cycled one of my usual circuits on new bike. Quite hilly and a strong west wind. Covered 36 miles in 2.5 hrs 14.6 mph ave according to new computer.
I've accessorised the bike now with SPD pedals, saddle bag, lights, mini pump and bell.

22 mile ride on new road bike

I did a ride on Sunday afternoon around the local area. Aldbury, Ashridge, Ivinghoe Beacon, Ivinghoe, Cheddington, Mentmore, Wingrave and home. I'd also done a couple of shorter evening rides to try out the new bike. It's fun, fast and surprisingly comfortable. If I'd have had this bike for LEJOG it would have saved a bit of effort, as it's about 3 or 4 kg lighter - mind you I was a bit lighter when I did LEJOG! I'm still using the hybrid for commuting and feel more in control in traffic with straight handlebars, and I need to use panniers for luggage - which sometimes includes my laptop.

The bike does take a rack for panniers, but I plan to keep the bike lightweight for weekend rides in good weather. I've just received my order for SPD pedals, a mini pump and computer to put the final touches to the bike. I'm planning a longer trip this weekend if the weather is good.

New Road Bike - Specialized Secteur 2010

I've finally succumed to temptation and ordered a road bike that I've had my eye on for some time. In fact I very nearly bought one last Xmas, then it went out of stock. I found one yesterday in a sale for £430 in my size. Not a bad price since the 2011 version is currently £599 and an ugly blue and white. I plan to use it for weekend rides to keep fit and occasionally for work in dry weather. I'll still use my hybrid for leisure rides with Nicky and for general commuting though.

Further details here:http://www.evanscycles.com/products/specialized/secteur-2010-road-bike-ec019551

Yorkshire Dales Trip 31st May to 3rd June

Day 1: Tues 31st May: Set off from Collingham and cycled via Harewood to Otley south of the R Wharfe, then crossed over the river on to minor roads. We got to Bolton Abbey about lunchtime and although there was a cafe there we decided we'd rather have a pub lunch and cycled on to Burnsall - which was a bit further and hillier than expected. Got to Grassington about 3pm. 38 miles.

Day 2: Weds 1st June. Set off along a minor road to the north of the river after a good breakfast. Had coffee at Buckden then started the long climb up Langstrothdale over to Wensleydale in the drizzle. The descent to Hawes was extremely steep. Had lunch in a motor bikers cafe along with some old bikers who must have been in their 70s. Checked in to our B&B around 2pm and had a nap, before exploring the town. Only 22 miles but a big hill.
Day 3: Thurs 2nd June. Travelled along the north side of the R. Ure in the sun - which was very pleasant. Met a party of 5 tandems. Had coffee at Aysgarth Falls, then bought sandwiches for lunch which we ate at the ruins of Jervaulx Abbey. Arrived in Masham for 2pm and checked into our B&B - had a nap then explored the town (pattern developing here). It was curry night at one of the local pubs. 35 miles

Day 4: Fri 3rd June. Set off from Masham towards Kirby Malzeard and rural villages to the south of the town. We got a bit lost on a couple of occasions due to signs being knocked over or moved around, and found quite a few hills to climb. Eventually we found a flatter straighter road to Ripley then on to Knaresborough where we bought lunch. Made it back to Collingham about 3pm. 35 miles.

Total cycled 125 miles.