Spiritual Guidance of the truest kind

Unable for various reasons to join the maddening throng on Saturday, (Well not until the end when I went to look for short legs, as he’d left an SOS on my answering phone.) I entered the gym at about 1550 to be told they close at 1700 which meant a beasting on the runner, and a further 30mins on the cycle machine, not much time left for sit-ups and grunting at metal work.

In fact the young woman behind the scene at the gym seem quite disturbed by my hollow look after quite literally blowing out of my arse for an hour. Anyway I covered 5K running and 13K on the bike I believe a total of 17k in less than an hour which dealt with my catholic guilt for not being on the ride, and my protestant work ethic that I’d used the time well. No breakage for me other than more wear on already shot knees. That was Saturday, not fun, not funny, not even interesting but committed.

Sunday brought about another challenge on my new (to me) bike, 3rd one I’ve been trg on now, a Kona Nunu, ‘they’ say variety is the spice of life!

Hello boys unfortunately not the 1990s advertising campaign led by Eva Herzigova but a whole new world of PAIN that was introduced to me by Peter (the Ferrari) Branson.

Peter set off towards Hade Edge from Totties and out towards the forestry above the Home Styles with chilling speed, all off road. Again I was using that breathing tube usually reserved only for sprouts, cabbage and eggie bread. Peter’s broad grin and obvious excitement meant he hardly noticed my pain; keeping exactly just within my eye sight other than the few times he rode back to hold a conversation with me; which in fairness was a bit one way in that I had no spare breath for talking so I resorted to signing.

We belted round the forestry, ‘gentle spinning’ was how Peter described it. At one point near the end (what felt like my life), Peter offered a half hour loop which might take a bit longer! I fortunately found a voice and an excuse. There’s that protestant work ethic again, “No, maybe another time” I replied.

So onwards and upwards we went continuing to go up tracks I usually ride down to begin a truly speedy and enjoyable decent from Hade Edge into Wooldale. 13.3 miles all together in what felt like as many mins. A good work out, and most enjoyable. Thank you Peter. My new bike felt good, albeit it needs some attention to the front derailer and wider handle-bars.

Now then Vicar

5 Men went to ride!

So my friends we have yet another tale of daring do to tell, in which Captain C gets a rival, Neil turns into Houdini, terrible, terrible injuries are inflicted and a mass game of "part swapping" unfolds!

So where to begin, well let's try the terrible traffic which once more led Captain C to arrive slightly after the anointed departing hour.

We were a merry bunch as we gathered under sun filled skies , accosted David "Bailey" Brooke to record our leers and prepared for departure.

Neil having decided that his bike was too good for such a trivial ride (some excuse about servicing required) had arrived on a vintage 1940s steed which would soon cost him and us dear!

The five of us (Tim2, Shortlegs, Mr Motivator, Captain C and I) set off as is our want on our more testing of rides by sprinting uphill to the Crossroads, well all except Shortlegs, who couldn't find a gear to save his life on his vintage steed. Solving the conundrum in the only way Mr Motivator can, a spare bike was summoned (Thanks Mel et al) and after a short period to enable swap of Saddle we continued on our way to 5 Lane ends (1.3miles in 50 minutes we were really motoring!)

Having noted a slight issue that pedals for said spare bike were SPDs, we clambered our way over the top and with ingenius use of an Allen key (along with a slight grumble about lack of greasing! from our technicians) pedals were swapped from my bike to Marks/ Neils, enabling me to have the ones that used to be Tims and us to venture further. We had now made it 1.54 miles in an hour - Doesn't time fly when you are having fun!

All issues sorted we flew towards our turnoff pre windmills and having covered another 125 yds at a record pace of 10mph Shortlegs now decided he didn't need a chain! Captain C deciding this was just too funny and attention was being taken away from himself then gave a demonstration of how to do a triple somersault with pike while still clipped in, in the middle of the road - Now that was Funny!

We now positively flew towards the windmills, I turned right whilst the others ventured a little further to warm their legs on a minor climb and we battled a minor headwind to Victoria, crossing we continued and steadily climbed to our usual vantage point over Flight hill.

Here we came across the first of many fine fillys for the day, at which whilst passing with care (and basically not watching what he was doing as he gave her a wide berth), Mr Motivator decided dismount was appropriate and that causing terrible,terrible injury to Tims knee would mean that he could share the pain!

We soldiered on down through the forestry, round Hades and missing the giant mole which caused such injury to Captain C the last time we passed that way, shot down the hill towards Yateholme without further incident.

We took great pride as our speed progressed and we hit Holmbridge to begin the long climb to Digley just as the clock struck 12.

Slowly but steadily we pulled ourselves upwards and as we climbed from the Reservoir up a fearful climb I heard the call of the Pewitt and the rarely heard, slightly out of breath "F**cking hell this is steep" from behind.

Hill climbed we set off ever upwards along the track and having utilised the massage effects of the slightly uneven surface made our way via various puddles/bogs to the main Greenfield Road.

Having paused for breath and refuelling we headed downhill towards Harden Moss Farm to join the Bridleway to Meltham. Mr Motivator declining to turn his front wheel in the general direction he wished to travel, dismounted in the ceremonial way again, (Captain C was now turning a slight shade of green as his rival continued to muscle in on his turf! ). Having survived we shot down the steepest of tracks to arrive in Meltham at record pace for the day, before climbing (again) to come to rest for luncheon at just after 2pm at The Travellers Rest.

It was now that Mr Motivator unleashed his master plan, and caused general chaos by throwing money on the floor, applying glaswegian kisses to innocent tables and generally causing much hilarity for the venerable locals. The food/drink was great at a reasonable price and the fine company and laughter enabled us to recover in double quick time - Tim even left some of the glaze on his dish after his Chillie.

Captain C not to be outdone made such a performance of utilising the facilities we honestly thought he was going to have an accident, turns out three pairs of shorts (including bib shorts) were the issue - though where the rumour about the thong came from I know not!

Having received the good wishes of all the people in the Pub and nearly everyone impressing on Mr motivator that he should take care we headed out, and headed round Blackmoor Foot Res at some speed (reaching a top speed of 33.5mph for the day).

We blazed a trail through South Crossland before heading down to the main road (politely let out by a Bus driver) we dived across and headed upwards once more to Honley Woods.

Here Shortlegs who was soldiering manfully on, on a bike made of elastic bands and washers that was a little hesitant in sticking to one particular gear, decided that to Spook another of our fine fillys would be fun.

We shot over the brow and heading through Magdale arrived at Alpine Corner filling station were Mr Motivator had some sort of issue over change as he purchased fuel.

Continuing on Hangingstone lane time was now pressing on and mentally I targeted 4pm at Castle Hill, to do this we had to go up yet again, and on a long killer climb all of a sudden words became unnecessary as we crawled desperately towards the summit.

We reached the foot of Castle hill at 4.04pm and given certain members had engagements this evening pushed on hard, flying down the hill opposite Farnley Line and then hanging a right to climb up to it.

That is all bar one, Houdini shortlegs had somehow become detached on the descent and had not seen the right turn choosing instead to venture left (I know this as after a short delay of some ten minutes and realising we had not taken precautions in the way of mobile numbers, I went in search of said member. Having flagged down a couple of motorists I quickly confirmed that he had not departed his cycle, and as I passed a yellow streak that became clear as a Roadie I was given the knowledge that he had in fact overtaken us and shot for the main penistone road).

By the wonders of technology I sent the troops in chase but alas it was in vain, so we regathered at the junction of the main road and decided our only option was to abandon original route and cut to the chase.

So the intrepid four hurtled up the main road (well three of them did, my brain had left me by then so leg rotation was clearly in its own time) but we climbed steadily before diving to Thunderbridge and the next to last climb of the day to Stocksmoor (What a beauty that is!) even Tim and Captain C's extra Chillie power didn't help here, before mounting one last push through Fulstone back to Church.

Tim summed up our ride by describing holes in certain areas of his anatomy, Captain C reckoned that he had just managed to maintain his crown and Mr Motivator had a serene grin on his face, but I know not why?

We managed a supreme 34.2miles, at a stupendous average speed of 7mph in 4hrs 50mins 13seconds of physical riding

Houdini re-appeared as I loaded my bike on the car having ridden the main road to the Sovereign and back down to church. I wonder really whether he found a ring at castle hill and he somehow had managed to re-appear from middle earth.

I guess we have learnt, three things from today, make sure you use the right kit, make sure everyone has full contact details for each other, and last but not least utilise the rules I use for my boys and if you are lost stay still and we will find you.

All in all a cracking if slightly incomplete ride with good company and good food.

Racing

How the hell is he doing it!

Just received notification from Lance that Saturday sees him with a pressing engagement watching Peter Gabriel, along with news that he has greatly increased his sponsorship totals and is putting the rest of us to shame.

Definitely a case of I don't know whether he is using a "Sledgehammer", just "Shaking the Tree" or has decided to merely " Don't give Up!" as a technique to extract donations but he sure as well can say "I have the touch!"

Come on guys time to catch up "Big Time!"

Racing

Amendments

And so I have once more "trained" my way to the darkest reachs of Derby, and back, primarily with a little help from the wonders of our National rail system-

Going because my leaden legs would have made me miss the train had it not been 15 minutes late and on my return because the 22 minute delay in departure from Derby ensured I had to ride through the delights of a Mini monsoon in Barnsley.

I arrived home a tad damp to the immediate hopefully temporary departure of my dearest ,which may have been due to the fact that she had made me a handsome microwave tea of Pasta, Chillie, Leek, Chillie, Mushroom, Chillie and Ham!

Anyway to the amendments-

1) Training Ride 3 - Captain C has kindly informed me that there is no through road round the golf course at Woodsome and that the "members" may not take kindly to a bunch of bike riders spoiling their Greens even if we are the world famous Blokes on a bike.- so I guess an amendment via a short hop on the main road will have to suffice.

2) Take a look at the Christchurch New Mill justgiving page as it now has a swanky picture details of what goes on there and links to the church website etc, so if you want to know more why not spoil us and donate at the same time.

Racing

Training continues apace

To prove this training lark has really bitten us, and the bug of miles in our legs and mud and rain on our faces, heres more proof that Captain Calamity really does live up to his name, and that Now then Vicar is quite clearly aiming for the Stunt rider of the C2C award.

A missive from Captain C

Morning All
Excited by the brief glimpse of spring early in the week and a freshly serviced bike along with a large delivery from wiggle, I was all set for a afternoon of intense training, however the drive to work some what dampened my sprits.
Returning from work at lunch time with the wind still gusting and the rain still falling, I saddled up, complete with new waterproof jacket and a rucksack packed with all the things I deemed necessary for my ride and the days on the C2C.
Leaving the gate I headed towards Jackson bridge and took the challenge of Butt lane towards Hepworth, moving on up to Boshaw and then tackling the the off road route to Flight Hill, dodging the masses gathered to watch Hade Edge FC.
Chuffed with my rate of climb up the rough track I emerged happy but slightly damp, in true Carling attitude “it’s beginning to look a little brighter out there”. Swift work was made of the decent around the Winscar res finding myself at the Stanhope Arms and the start of the muddy trail towards Penistone.
Having read Richards blog early in the week I took this opportunity to refuel before tackling the track, spurred on by the sight of an 8 year old girl just arriving at the picnic area, happy but muddy and also taking part in a charity ride, I jumped back on and off.
Whisking along at good pace nodding my head at other riders taking part in the charity ride I could hardly keep the grin from my face, big puddles, lots of mud at last some enjoyment from this training, although I must add I feel in the direction of Penistone it’s slightly downhill. Such was my speed I missed the exit lane to Millhouse, but feeling fresh I decide to make a slight route change and bat on to the Station.
Dropping back into Penistone I noticed the lack of front brake and the bike having just been serviced made me a little cross! Up and around the Town centre and back towards Thurlstone, rejoining my intended route, well Saturday wouldn’t be Saturday without saying hello to my favourite dog. Once again the decent on the single track proved tricky but taking careful selection of my gears I concentrated on the climb in front, (yet to be achieved by any member of the team), with a couple of cogs too much I only managed to get a little further than last week, but again with optimism I knew one day I’ll get it right!
With a spring in my step I pushed to the top of the narrow track, deciding to refuel at last weeks service point, as the clouds darkened and the wind whipped up, the rain beginning to fall a little heavier I jumped back on, forced the pedal down to hear the familiar sound heard just 7 days prior, yep you guessed it...broken chain!
The expletives began, the bike shop who said it would be fine being repaired had been crossed of my Christmas card list and then a sense of calm came across me as I undid my new rucksack and unpacked all the necessary equipment to get me back on my way, whistling while I worked happy in the knowledge that all these hiccup's would only make me stronger and better prepared for the real thing.
Back on the bike I set off again, however the cold wet wind had really started to tell and I struggled to get heat back in my body and legs as I climbed back towards 5 lanes End. Looking at the clock and disappointed with my mileage I headed for home a cold and wet rider, I convinced myself to take a little off road section I know, and pushed on around Ebson House and down Fulstone to home, as the odometer clicked over the 20 mile mark. Arriving home cold, very wet and muddy, I can only pray for better weather in May.
Yours
Captain C

A Sermon from Now then Vicar

Yes I arrived back from Derby at 1545 and tried to ring James who was most likely by this time looking for a part of his bike in Thurstone (how annoying). Anyway with no answer from James I pulled out of the homestead and headed off through New Mill village on one long climb to Victoria; swinging a right at the top O’ the hill into the murk.

I then headed on what was remembered as downhill, but was actually more uphill towards the forestry at the top of Home Styles Res. making a good time, pace inspired by the driving rain and desperation to get off the road and onto some tracks.

By now I’d hit the forestry, had to dismount to jump the stile and threw the bike down the track up past the building and down Hades really enjoying the technical side of the riding. This inspired me to find a slightly alternative route through the wood which meant I has to dismount once over a fallen tree. Then down a steep narrow incline, dismounted at the bottom and pushed out for 50 yards before remounting and riding round the res and out onto Choppards, turning right up the hill to Hade Edge.
The last time I was on that hill I was chasing Tim to the top. It all felt good so I made a left at the band-room and across to the windmill taking a farm track down to Scholes and then continuing across the road to another track leading down towards Cinderhills. This was a very boggy technical section which saw me dismount in the usual involuntary way, over the handle bars on two occasions.
By this time I was wet through anyway and was having a ball. All tiredness gone from the adrenalin rush (while James was looking for his brakes). Dropped off the back of Cliff and quick sprint down the hill home all in 1 hour 40 ish. Don’t know how far but it was great fun and the shower after it felt great.

I really am enjoying the cycling. Now the sponsorship, that's another challenge.

Now then Vicar

Great inspiration fellas!!!

And so what have we learnt-

1) It's clear to see that we will need at least three chains in the support vehicles, purely for Captain C (Kit Man please take note!)

2) It seems that if you read the sermon carefully Now then Vicar appears to be cross-training rather than pure bike riding, what with throwing bikes, walking, log hopping and sometime riding- (think he's just showing off really!)

Please help keep these guys training hard by Sponsoring them and spreading the word, any amount you can give will help our charities greatly!

Racing

Training ride 3

Training ride 3 on Saturday 27th March starting from New Mill church at 10am.

Route as per the attached.

http://www.mapmyride.com/ride/united-kingdom/huddersfield/734126909993756915

Looking forward to a balmy 8 degrees!

Racing

Failing to learn from experience!

Ah what a fool am I, I have returned today from two consecutive days of commuting from home to Barnsley, and boy do I have aches, pains etc just where I don't need them!

Had a thought that I am missing something, and then from the recesses of my mind (as I recalled my Jogle) it struck me, Sudocrem, Padded undershorts and regular fuelling. All currently missing. I'm sure Kit man mentioned something to do with these.... must read blog closer
Route of my commute gives around 19 miles at one end and a couple at the other, if anyone feels like joining me, though 5.20am for the first half, and 6.20pm return, and the train to Derby may not fit with your working day!
See Link for details-
http://www.mapmyride.com/route/gb/skelmanthorpe/183126877483188459

Racing

PS: IF YOU HAVEN'T PLEASE SPONSOR US

Working on the chain gang- or not as the case may be!

So as the clock struck 5.20am, I dived out of bed, donned my cycling invisibility cloak, lit my many coloured lighting array and bestrode my steed all by a quarter to six on a Saturday morning (certain people would only assume that I had lost my marble, if I ever had it!).

The Sun was beginning to cast its hue of pink among a cloudless sky filled by aviation trails as I steadily climbed through Lower Cumberworth towards the Star and five lane ends, before diving for Crossroads and the Church, to meet my fellow, intrepid early risers for the start of early bird training proper.

Now Then Vicar, Mr Motivator, and the leader of the gang (henceforth to be known as Captain Calamity!!!) were gathered as I made my appearance and we began as is our want with an uphill section. We climbed at a good and steady pace, heartened by the sight of the Sun, the lack of Snow and Fog and the certain knowledge we would be home in short order. Butterley lane briefly challenged us before we raised our heartbeats "briefly" to climb onwards to our natural disposition of passing windmills.

Now then Vicar had by this time regaled us with tales of pure quality salesmanship from his preferred cycle shop (or to be more accurate inflexibility of the highest order), and had cleared the little difficulties from a glass too many on the previous evening.

Having skated round various corners, ice patches etc, we passed a pack of rottweilers which looked like they might like to test our edibility and on good , quick roads decided that if the C2C could be guaranteed to be like this it wouldn't be half bad!

Having stopped to admire the windmills close to, discussed, the servicing of same and something about it could only be done from the top, we sped downhill reaching a comfortable 33 mph per my cycle computer.

Following Captain Calamity's route we passed his friendly dog, and descended along the singletrack (at which I proved comprehensively I still lack anything like proficiency) and three of us made it to the otherside albeit with two legged means rather than wheels.

Captain Calamity however, decided to prove his sudonym by deciding that gears didn't need to be changed to go uphill and seperated his chain from his bike in a most professional manner.

Time was pressing on at this point and knowing I had an appointment with the wrath of my beloved should I not get home for 8, I did what all good teammates do and abandoned the three of them to the fun of mending chains, having of course taken the obligatory photo for the Blog, though Mr Motivator did have to be encouraged to hold Captain calamitys other end for photographic purposes.

I by this time was behind schedule and therefore flogged my way through Ingbirchworth, to Upper Denby before I shot downhill through Denby Dale.

I reached the top of Gilthwaites lane as the Carriage turned back to a pumpkin and climbed for one last time over the track back to Lidgett Lane and home.

My time of 2hrs 6 mins and 17.89 miles seemed liked a good wake up call, my fuelling was crap and letting my boys steal one of my Muesli bars proved to be a foolish idea as the day progressed.

The rest of the gang may still be out there singing along about working on the Chain Gang...........Captain Calamity are you out there?..........come in please................

Racing

Early bird training session 1 - 06-03-10

Just a quick update to let you know the first early bird training session progressed as planned yesterday morning.Only 2 in attendance, myself and Sean, who greeted me at my gate posts in a snazzy yellow number at 6:30am.

(sorry didn't have a picture of the yellow one other than the eyes! racing)

We started with the compulsory training ride start up to Snowgate Head, across the main road and on up to 5 lanes end.With the air cold clean and crisp we rode on past the windmills, which this Saturday I could see in all their glory.On to the end of the road, but instead of doing a right like last week, we beared left swooping down into Thurlstone.

Sean managed to shock a half a sleep motorist on his way to work as he took the apex of a corner at break neck speed with his knee down Rossi style.Left in Thurlstone and nice little climb out of the village but the road marking suggesting a dead end, as did the very large dog behind a farmers gate, however...iphone to hand we confirmed our current and correct location and proceeded onto a nice little, narrow track,

A short but steep and trickydownhill section, found us in the bottom with a short but steep and narrow technical climb out, do to the large area of soft ground at the bottom we were both unable to ride out.Like true off rode cavaliers we chucked them onto our shoulder and ran up the narrow path(if you believe that...well then) At the top we found a nice section of track which lead us to pop out just under the Ingbirchworth Res.

We then made our way back towards the windmills, crossing underneath them this time and heading towards Victoria, short of the junction we switched back on Hog Close lane pedalling back towards Tinkers Monument.

To finish the ride we took the nice downhill section of Intake lane and the rough track, bringing us though Pit bottom and home to Sude Hill.

A great way to start the day, a nice route and good company. 13 miles in 1 hr 40 min is our bench mark time! Which will be easily bettered next time out.

All welcome next Saturday, you can be back in bed or at work for 8:30 no problem at all.

James

Kit List for Blokes on a bike

Hi Guys, following is a kit list for the coast to coast. This is not a definitive kit list, it is just what I am going to be taking and can recommend, obviously if you would be more comfy doing things another way, I shall not take offence! J
I have not mentioned specifics e.g, map, compass, GPS, etc, just the basic rider kit list.

I think the easiest way to start is top of the body down to the feet, then the luggage.

A Helmet. For me personally, this is a must. Something airy and comfy with the protection required. If you have spill on the bike, broken wrists, arms etc are a 6 week healing problem, but a broken head tends to be terminal. They are not a legal requirement for any type of cycling, but for the price of them these days, there really is no excuse.
Riding/sunglasses. For comfort really, a bit of relief from the (hopefully very bright!) sun. Also good for stopping your eyes watering when riding downhill/quickly/into wind.
A lightweight “Buff”. A kind of tube scarf thing. Pop it in your bag, you’ll probably never use it. It weighs nothing, and if the wind starts to blow, your ears will be really glad you’ve got it!
Base layer top. Sports T-shirt/technical fabric kind of thing. A moisture wicking material that moves sweat away from the body, keep the body warm if needed, and helps to regulate body temperature a little. You can spend as much as you like, but personally I’ve found cheap base layers work as well as expensive ones. All very much of a muchness. Long or short sleeve, full zip or half zip, what ever is your personal preference.
A comfy top. T-shirt for riding in, again, technical material is better, but hopefully it will be warm enough just for 1 layer on top!
Waterproof jacket. Something light, and that packs down very small into your bag. I have a cheap as chips rain jacket, just the job to get me through a shower. (Again I hope the weather remembers its supposed to be near summertime!)
Riding Gloves. Again fingerless or full fingered, whichever you are happiest with. Lightweight and airy, they don’t offer much in the way of protection if you were to fall off, but they are not designed for that. These are to stop the blisters that come with longer periods of riding. I think it is worth noting that it is worth getting a proper pair of riding specific gloves, that you have tried on and are happy with the fit. The padding is in all the right places, and if you are not comfy or in pain with blisters, 50 miles a day will seem like torture. They don’t cost a fortune (don’t think I’ve spent more than £20 on any, including winter waterproof pairs), defiantly recommended.
Padded undershorts. If you bring anything on this list, make it this one! A padded under short will make everything more bearable. Blisters and sores “down there” are not fun. Personally I will be taking 2 pairs as if like me you sweat quite a bit when exercising, salt crystals can form, and if there is any blistering, it is really unpleasant. Wear a pair, wash a pair. Your body will thank you from the heart of its bottom!
Shorts/Trousers. This is up to you. Whatever is comfy for you. I recommend lightweight and quick drying. Apart from that, be comfy!
Socks-again a preference thing. Comfy, sports socks, heavy outdoor socks your choice. A pair for each day I’m taking.
Shoes. Same as socks. Be comfy, but remember you will have them on all day for 3 days.


Gear.
1.Luggage- personally I would suggest staying away from panniers, they make a bike heavier and clumsy whilst manoeuvring. That said, if you are used to panniers, go that way, but I find a good fitting back pack is better . Try it on to make sure it fits you well and is comfortable, remember you will be wearing it all day and not all packs fit everybody well (chest straps are always a bonus). Check body contact points, areas of nipping etc. I would suggest that a pack be as small as possible (which helps reduce weight) whilst being capable of carrying all your chosen kit easily (stuffed packs are horrid to ride with). Basic comfy day pack through to hydration packs (with on board bladder- Camelbak, Dakine etc) your choice, just be comfy. Possibly get a rain cover for your pack too? It is English weather after all!

2.Inner tubes. I can recommend taking at least one in your pack. We’ll be riding together, so if anybody is unlucky enough to get a 2 flats, we should be OK. These can be bought cheaply from anywhere, online, bike shops, supermarkets etc. Unless you are going for the puncture proofed tubes (Slime, Dr.Sludge etc) tubes are really pretty much all the same. I can recommend Slime tubes, I changed mine to Slime 1 year ago, not one puncture since. Make sure you buy the same type as what is already on your bike, the 2 main types are Shraeder valve (car type) and Presta valve. I only mention it because a Schraeder valve won’t fit a Presta valve wheel rim.

3. Tyre levers. Cheap as chips, you need them to change tyres, and when you are riding your bike in the future, you will need them at some point.

4. A chain link to match your chain is a must too. A broken chain is game over if it can’t be fixed. A spare link and pin, a power link kit etc, just pop something in your pack that can fix your chain should it break. (Remember to match your chain-e.g 8-speed gears and chain needs an 8 speed link, 9 speed-a 9 speed link etc.) Couple of quid online/in shops, they weigh nothing, and hopefully we won’t need to use it.

5.A gear cable. Again, one to match your bike. I only ever carry 1, and so far I’ve never needed it, but I’m happy knowing if a cable snaps, I’m not stuck. Online (Wiggle, Chainreactioncycles etc) or shops, only a couple of quid.

6. Tools. You can get cycle specific ones(Crank Brothers, Alien etc), but anything with a few tools that match your bikes fitments/hardware. Even a small bag of Allen keys could get you out of a jam. I’m taking my tool box for any bigger problems(hopefully in the van!!) but again, after the C2C ,in the future, chances are at some point, you will need them.

7. Chamois cream. This again is preference and a personal choice. These creams are formulated to ease areas of soreness around the saddle contact points. Some folks use Sudocreme etc, I use a chamois cream, for me its better. Around a fiver from bike shops/Internet if you want some.

8. Energy! Some food stuffs to keep you going. Flapjacks, fruit loafs, jelly sweets, isotonic drinks etc all work a treat. Again these can all be bought, I make my own flapjacks, and for a good isotonic drink, 50% pure unsweetened juice, 50% water and a good pinch of salt. Cheap and just as effective! J Take water if you do not opt for any energy drinks. I don’t know how much fluid each rider will need, but to try and gauge it, I will be carrying 3 litres on the first day, and increase/decrease as necessary for the following 2 days.

9. Evening clothes. Totally up to you! For somebody with my poor taste in fashion, I definitely should not be telling you how to dress! Don’t forget your overnight kit too!

Bikes.
Take a spare set of brake blocks/pads-just in case.
Your bike should be ready for this ride. If it is new, get the dealer you bought it from to service it before we go. Usually dealers give you a “free 6 week service” when you buy it. Remember that new bike gear cables will need to stretch and settle, as will brake cables (unless you are running hydraulics) etc. It is no fun trying to cycle up a hill with skipping gears. If I can help at all with any bike, please just let me know, if the bike is new it would be best getting done at the dealer, just to protect your warranty.

I think that’s everything folks, if I have forgotten anything, please add on, and I will see to it that I am adequately beaten!

Cheers Guys,

Tim. (2)

The Lesser Spotted Branson

Sad news that Peter won't be able to join us due to his newborn son needing major surgery, our thoughts are with Peter and his family at this difficult time.

Racing

Logo

It has been decreed by the various Seers that we needed a logo, so with much trumpet and percussion here it is.......... our thanks to Messrs Moorhouse and Brockway for their design input

Racing