Arriving at the harrow, only Simon G was waiting at the bench, but all at once 5 others appeared almost out thin air. Hight H, Lee S, Dave M, Nigel T and newbie Nigel Fitchett, joining us for his maiden Sunday morning club ride.
Nigel quizzed me on the predicted pace of the ride, asking "It won't be like the chaingang on Wednesday, will it?" We set off with him having been reassured that it would "a brisk, but easier pace than that."
We headed East with the wind on our backs (and drizzle, that had not been forecast) for a fast flat start, brought prematurely to a halt on Friars hill, as Dave M suffered our one & only puncture of the day.We got going again, making good time along Pett Level & through the nature reserve, picking up our 8th rider, Mark Ingram, at Rye(back to it after several weeks out with a chest infection)
We rode in a tidy paired formation through Rye & out to Lydd, with just a little encouragement needed to " not be shy, and/or enjoy the comfort of the wheel & rear mudguards for too long," and we then cruised across to Lydd in excess of 23mph. Turning left at Lydd church, we started to catch a bit more sidewind & occasionally a headwind as the lane twisted & turned, as we headed inland. Reducing the pace quite a bit, so that we managed to keep grouped together, we wound our way across the exposed marsh to Ivychuch & Brenzett, before turning fully into a headwind on the Snargate road to Appledore. We gathered our thoughts in the usual "thought gathering/nature break layby" in Appledore, as we waited for newbie Nigel to catch back up, as he had just fallen of the pace slightly with the hard grind into the wind. Declaring that he was "blowing out of his @#%*", we sympathetically gave him time to have a quick drink, before starting the the steady grind up to Tenterden, with Nigel T dropping back( the furthest he got from the cleanliness of my rear mudguard all morning) to shelter & encourage Nigel F on the slopes towards our cafe stop.
We arrived at Tenterden for our much anticipated & deserved cafe stop, only to be greeted at the door to be told that the empty indoor tables had been reserved, and that only the outdoor tables were available. Maybe it was the smell of 8 sweaty mamils that was putting them off, or simply that they have a better class of "greasy spoon" in this neck of the woods??? Hats & gloves stayed on as we observed rule #5 & hunckered down outside to refuel ourselves.
Having cooled off a fair bit during our alfresco dining, the descent into Smallhythe was to be a rather chilly restart, but knowing that we had a few climbs on our way back meant that we would soon warm up again. Heading through Peasmarsh, we took the horseshoe lane turning, and finally regrouped in Broadoak at the top of the beautifully surfaced, but long & tough climb of furnace lane. Dave M appeared towards the rear, having earned my full admiration (not to be confused with sympathy, haha) for even turning up for the start of the ride, after being out partying until 2am, let alone finishing the ride, but was now clearly paying the price for his night of revelry.
We all disbanded & headed back our own ways at this point, and I rode back into Westfield with Nigel F, discovering that he had covered the distance on his own before, but that he was about 3mph above his normal ave speed. Well done, 60 miles at arond 16.5mph!
Until next week, J.V
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Saturday, 27 December 2014
Wednesday, 24 December 2014
The Hell of Herbrand
Hate; hate, hate, hate; double-hate; loathe entirely! My early morning walk to the station was promising - quite warm with a wind to dry the roads. But by the time I’d got home, the south coast drizzle had made the roads wet again. It bugged me, but for the time of year it remains very mild with no chance of ice. After a whole week off the bike (Christmas and family chores interfering far too much) and I was mad keen for a good mid-week blast, the perfect way to start my Christmas break.
So, we all know how it unfolds when the wind is from the south-west: a tough outward leg with a super-charged return. I felt like Mark Cavendish with the wind but rode like an old man with shopping bags on the handlebars when riding into it. And so it proved, with 10 riders starting out into a stiff wind as a single group, with chins on the stem and looking for riders to shelter behind. The excellent Stuart Hodd suggested I lead out so he could do exactly that; I warned him I would be slow and it wasn't long before he smoothly span past me.
By the time we reached South Cliff I was at the tail-end of a group of six riders, the ‘super-fasts' having quickly sorted themselves into a rapid, stronger peloton. I knew I would be dropped by the top of the hill and I soon watched their rear lights move away into the blustery breeze. I glanced behind to see a couple of bright lights a few hundred metres behind. I hoped they would catch me but I wasn’t prepared to slow to let them do that, so I pressed on alone, gasping along Cooden Drive and knowing that however tough it was at that moment, the worst was yet to come… If Father Christmas could bring me just one thing, I would ask for a sprinkling of the awesome power with which some club members are able to ride. I guess I'll just have to work harder for it.
In the damp friendless dark, beyond the point at which streetlights are lit and houses line the road, past the rotting wooden beach huts and teeth-like concrete bollards, a ribbon of uneven tarmac lies waiting to extract cold revenge on the riders who dare sully its gritty surface – schadenfreude for the reckless and uninvited abandon with which we skitter along the black, tarry lane. On one side, shingle creeps towards the road edge, pushing you towards sunken drain covers. On the other, a ragged chain link fence hopes to snag your bar-ends or rip your knees. Its ally is the wind, tearing across the sea, hurling lumps of wood, fishing net and plastic bags across your path. I gritted my teeth and ground my way forward, turning at Cooden and then at the station, grimly determined, riding like Bismark with a mix of ‘blood and iron’. The ‘Hell of Herbrand’ awaited me…
Well, I survived of course. I’ve endured worse rides along that road. I think that somewhere along there or near the Star Inn I came up behind a rider in a flapping yellow cagoule, labouring forward alone, his super-flat-back and clicking bottom-bracket giving away his identity as Tom Norris. We rode as a pair to the Pevensey roundabout, fighting hard to arrive first in the final stretch but drawing level and with honours even. The riders behind didn’t catch us but were soon revealed as Simon G and Peter Buss, who had also enjoyed a good pairs ride across the marshes. Somewhere behind them was John Stainsby but he did not show, despite us waiting some time for his arrival.
After the pain of the ride there, we were all eager for the wind-assisted cruise back to Bexhill, setting out again as one group and again splitting early into two similar-ability groups. In the front group of five were Stuart H, Barney and Alex, amongst others. In the second group was Simon G, Peter Buss, Tom and myself – Doner und Blitzen, Dasher and Dancer - but without the fat bloke in a sleigh. We picked up John ‘Comet’ Vidler near Spooky Hill and rode an excellent through and off for the return leg, greatly helped by the wind. We saw John S still making his way to Pevensey, and I think also Dan and one other who had joined the chain gang party rather late. Peter in particular rode strongly, perhaps experiencing for the first time the buzz that comes with fast group riding. This time I competed in the final sprint with Simon G but again honours were shared and there were smiles all around.
Christmas good wishes were duly shared amongst the hardy band of chain gang brothers who had braved the torrid conditions. Peter, Tom and I rode west again, so this time I had some company for the fight across Herbrand. We saw John S on his return leg and talked about our Christmas and New Year riding plans, performing the juggling act that we all must in the holidays between spending longed-for time with family, time eating and resting, and fulfilling the need to ride as much as possible before work returns to rob us of time and fitness, spoiling the mood of the season like a jar of sauerkraut spilling over your Christmas pudding.
Merry Christmas to all Hastings and St Leonards club members and their families – I hope you all manage to get out on the bike as much as you would like or are able to!
Chain gang meets again next Tuesday. Come along and fight the podge!
Neil S
So, we all know how it unfolds when the wind is from the south-west: a tough outward leg with a super-charged return. I felt like Mark Cavendish with the wind but rode like an old man with shopping bags on the handlebars when riding into it. And so it proved, with 10 riders starting out into a stiff wind as a single group, with chins on the stem and looking for riders to shelter behind. The excellent Stuart Hodd suggested I lead out so he could do exactly that; I warned him I would be slow and it wasn't long before he smoothly span past me.
By the time we reached South Cliff I was at the tail-end of a group of six riders, the ‘super-fasts' having quickly sorted themselves into a rapid, stronger peloton. I knew I would be dropped by the top of the hill and I soon watched their rear lights move away into the blustery breeze. I glanced behind to see a couple of bright lights a few hundred metres behind. I hoped they would catch me but I wasn’t prepared to slow to let them do that, so I pressed on alone, gasping along Cooden Drive and knowing that however tough it was at that moment, the worst was yet to come… If Father Christmas could bring me just one thing, I would ask for a sprinkling of the awesome power with which some club members are able to ride. I guess I'll just have to work harder for it.
In the damp friendless dark, beyond the point at which streetlights are lit and houses line the road, past the rotting wooden beach huts and teeth-like concrete bollards, a ribbon of uneven tarmac lies waiting to extract cold revenge on the riders who dare sully its gritty surface – schadenfreude for the reckless and uninvited abandon with which we skitter along the black, tarry lane. On one side, shingle creeps towards the road edge, pushing you towards sunken drain covers. On the other, a ragged chain link fence hopes to snag your bar-ends or rip your knees. Its ally is the wind, tearing across the sea, hurling lumps of wood, fishing net and plastic bags across your path. I gritted my teeth and ground my way forward, turning at Cooden and then at the station, grimly determined, riding like Bismark with a mix of ‘blood and iron’. The ‘Hell of Herbrand’ awaited me…
Well, I survived of course. I’ve endured worse rides along that road. I think that somewhere along there or near the Star Inn I came up behind a rider in a flapping yellow cagoule, labouring forward alone, his super-flat-back and clicking bottom-bracket giving away his identity as Tom Norris. We rode as a pair to the Pevensey roundabout, fighting hard to arrive first in the final stretch but drawing level and with honours even. The riders behind didn’t catch us but were soon revealed as Simon G and Peter Buss, who had also enjoyed a good pairs ride across the marshes. Somewhere behind them was John Stainsby but he did not show, despite us waiting some time for his arrival.
After the pain of the ride there, we were all eager for the wind-assisted cruise back to Bexhill, setting out again as one group and again splitting early into two similar-ability groups. In the front group of five were Stuart H, Barney and Alex, amongst others. In the second group was Simon G, Peter Buss, Tom and myself – Doner und Blitzen, Dasher and Dancer - but without the fat bloke in a sleigh. We picked up John ‘Comet’ Vidler near Spooky Hill and rode an excellent through and off for the return leg, greatly helped by the wind. We saw John S still making his way to Pevensey, and I think also Dan and one other who had joined the chain gang party rather late. Peter in particular rode strongly, perhaps experiencing for the first time the buzz that comes with fast group riding. This time I competed in the final sprint with Simon G but again honours were shared and there were smiles all around.
Christmas good wishes were duly shared amongst the hardy band of chain gang brothers who had braved the torrid conditions. Peter, Tom and I rode west again, so this time I had some company for the fight across Herbrand. We saw John S on his return leg and talked about our Christmas and New Year riding plans, performing the juggling act that we all must in the holidays between spending longed-for time with family, time eating and resting, and fulfilling the need to ride as much as possible before work returns to rob us of time and fitness, spoiling the mood of the season like a jar of sauerkraut spilling over your Christmas pudding.
Merry Christmas to all Hastings and St Leonards club members and their families – I hope you all manage to get out on the bike as much as you would like or are able to!
Chain gang meets again next Tuesday. Come along and fight the podge!
Neil S
Sunday, 21 December 2014
20/12 BBR And Beer!
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| Our Mpg Is Miles Per Snack Bar! |
Up ahead the whole group had become very spead out and apparently Malc C took a wrong turn, Ivan gave chase to bring him back but then they both got lost and ended up going down some muddy lanes before eventually finding their way back to us at the wonderful Pevensey cafe.
With a gentle wind at our backs we made rapid easy progress home, knocking off a few Strava achievemnets along the way.
Myself , Ivan, Malc C and Malc D made a beeline for the Standard to have one or two beers. Malc and I were in heaven as Chris (the landlord) played some classic 'Doors' tracks for us , and so before we knew it, three pints had been consumed. That was enough afternoon beer for me and Malc C but Ivan and malc D looked like they had settled in for the remainder of the day, and indeed just after midnight, I recieved a text message from Ivan telling me he was 'pissed as a phart', LOL
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| Malc And Ivan Settling In For Some serious Drinking LOL! |
19/12 Fri Night Ride- Newbie Nigel Nails Stonestile
Perfect night time weather brought out a double figure turnout of riders for the Friday night ride. I was glad to unexpectedly be there to see how new HSLCC rider Nigel Fitchett would get on. Nigel really enjoyed his first ever weds chain-gang and was keen to do more group riding ( having ridden for years on his own). Our one minute split down battery hill now works like clockwork and soon after the bottom of Battery Hill we were all safely together again. Easy group riding through the reserve proceeded a burst of effort up the long drag to Broad-oak . Barney is in recovery mode from an illness so honours went to Alex and Steve B for arriving first. At the back of the group myself and Peter got a mini through and off going with Nigel F just behind us. I don't think Nigel realised just how long this drag is because at one point he put on a burst of speed and opened up a gap on us, only to pay the price for this burst of energy by losing our wheels as we clawed him back and went past him. Unlike a few weeks ago we had no trouble with members of the public, in fact we seemed to receive a number of admiring glancing from people as we gracefully swept downhill through Brede and towards Wesfield. Nigel acquitted himself really well for his first successful ascent of Stonestile and was only around a minute behind myself and Steve D. Alex and Barney made a joint Armstrong-Pantani effort to cross the crest together in first place.
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| Nigel Nails Stonestile! |
Thursday, 18 December 2014
Ma wants a Smeg fridge – Time for a Beer
Is it really December? Last nights chain gang was again ridden in warm conditions and encouraged another good turnout for the time of year. 24 riders came along for a demanding mid-week ride, ready to battle a stiff south westerly wind on dark, wet roads.
A dozen or so ‘super-fasts’ set off first, their blinking and flashing rear lights disappearing towards the first bend. We gave them a bit longer to make sure we didn’t overtake them (ahem) and were then led out by Simon G on his fixie. Amongst this group was John V, nursing a sore knee, and Tom ‘Limbo’ Norris, looking very chipper. We also had a young Eastbourne Rovers lad riding with us whose name I did not catch, but who kept up well throughout the ride – well done!
That stiff south west wind made for steady rather than stellar progress, but for a large group with a varied mix of abilities and experience we maintained a good pace and form for the whole of the outward leg. The group swept along like fast-flowing magma, rippling through Bexhill and across the marshes, glowing brightly and gently steaming!
There were some glitches – I was chastised for shooting off the front and occasionally others found the sudden force of the wind slowed them more than they expected, but overall it was a good ‘through and off’ ride in less than easy conditions. It was, as Simon G noted, a long way to the front riding in a group of this size!
The pause at the roundabout gave everyone an opportunity to discuss the conduct of the ride. Opinions varied on the pace and on how well the group had ridden – too fast, too slow, good form, not good form etc. Lively discussion is sure to be found wherever there is a group of cyclists! Regarding pace, we could have split the fast group into two, but last night we were keener to keep the group together for the whole leg and that was a good discipline to exert (with thanks to Simon G and John V as unofficial ride captains last night).
Chatting about this later we agreed again that communication is the key – if you want to go faster, tell people what you are going to do and take people with you, if you can. All sounds simple when written on a page, but perhaps not so simple when you are whistling over the marshes at 22mph in the wet and dark! Building trust and mutual understanding helps the process. The only way this can be done is by riding together regularly and by talking about how well, or otherwise, the ride goes.
Or maybe you just want to turn up and ride, and who can blame you. The chain gang can be as simple or as complicated as you want. But I would still argue that you would get more from the experience if you can learn to ride well in a group, and that you will find tough conditions less of a problem when you benefit from the mutual protection of the group.
Having slogged our way outward against the breeze, we now had the wind behind us for the return leg. This made maintaining a consistent pace a bit easier, and we again rode well as a large group for the entire return leg. Impressive stuff! There was a fair bit of banter and chat too as people enjoyed the pace and form of the group. Of course, there was the obligatory hard effort toward the end of the ride, in which Simon G apologised for boxing me in but did it anyway! He said something about ‘not having me beat him again’… All good fun.
Perhaps nine or ten of us then went to the Forum (the bar formerly known as Walkers) for a festive drink. What a sight – sweaty lycra, grime-speckled faces and wet arses. Who could resist? Anyhow, beers and lots of packets of nuts were quickly consumed. I had a good chat with Chris and added some more names to familiar faces, which I have since forgotten, apart from (for some reason) for Nick Sargent. Perhaps it was his pink denim knee-length shorts that stuck in the mind.
I had just the one pint, more than enough for me as I am a total lightweight. A Guinness is enough to lift my spirits without me getting too silly and it fuelled my riding for another 30 minutes as I got in the mid-week miles. I rode south to the front, then west into the wind again, along the prom, Cooden Drive, Herbrand and the marshes, climbing to Rock Cottage. The backdrop to my solo effort was a moving cyclorama of buildings and shapes looming out of the dark. And then I enjoyed that lovely moment when you turn around, the roar of the wind is silenced and your legs feel like they are powered by a plasma drive.
Remember that for the next two weeks the chain gang will be on Tuesdays, in order to accommodate the festivities.
Regards, Neil
A dozen or so ‘super-fasts’ set off first, their blinking and flashing rear lights disappearing towards the first bend. We gave them a bit longer to make sure we didn’t overtake them (ahem) and were then led out by Simon G on his fixie. Amongst this group was John V, nursing a sore knee, and Tom ‘Limbo’ Norris, looking very chipper. We also had a young Eastbourne Rovers lad riding with us whose name I did not catch, but who kept up well throughout the ride – well done!
That stiff south west wind made for steady rather than stellar progress, but for a large group with a varied mix of abilities and experience we maintained a good pace and form for the whole of the outward leg. The group swept along like fast-flowing magma, rippling through Bexhill and across the marshes, glowing brightly and gently steaming!
There were some glitches – I was chastised for shooting off the front and occasionally others found the sudden force of the wind slowed them more than they expected, but overall it was a good ‘through and off’ ride in less than easy conditions. It was, as Simon G noted, a long way to the front riding in a group of this size!
The pause at the roundabout gave everyone an opportunity to discuss the conduct of the ride. Opinions varied on the pace and on how well the group had ridden – too fast, too slow, good form, not good form etc. Lively discussion is sure to be found wherever there is a group of cyclists! Regarding pace, we could have split the fast group into two, but last night we were keener to keep the group together for the whole leg and that was a good discipline to exert (with thanks to Simon G and John V as unofficial ride captains last night).
Chatting about this later we agreed again that communication is the key – if you want to go faster, tell people what you are going to do and take people with you, if you can. All sounds simple when written on a page, but perhaps not so simple when you are whistling over the marshes at 22mph in the wet and dark! Building trust and mutual understanding helps the process. The only way this can be done is by riding together regularly and by talking about how well, or otherwise, the ride goes.
Or maybe you just want to turn up and ride, and who can blame you. The chain gang can be as simple or as complicated as you want. But I would still argue that you would get more from the experience if you can learn to ride well in a group, and that you will find tough conditions less of a problem when you benefit from the mutual protection of the group.
Having slogged our way outward against the breeze, we now had the wind behind us for the return leg. This made maintaining a consistent pace a bit easier, and we again rode well as a large group for the entire return leg. Impressive stuff! There was a fair bit of banter and chat too as people enjoyed the pace and form of the group. Of course, there was the obligatory hard effort toward the end of the ride, in which Simon G apologised for boxing me in but did it anyway! He said something about ‘not having me beat him again’… All good fun.
Perhaps nine or ten of us then went to the Forum (the bar formerly known as Walkers) for a festive drink. What a sight – sweaty lycra, grime-speckled faces and wet arses. Who could resist? Anyhow, beers and lots of packets of nuts were quickly consumed. I had a good chat with Chris and added some more names to familiar faces, which I have since forgotten, apart from (for some reason) for Nick Sargent. Perhaps it was his pink denim knee-length shorts that stuck in the mind.
I had just the one pint, more than enough for me as I am a total lightweight. A Guinness is enough to lift my spirits without me getting too silly and it fuelled my riding for another 30 minutes as I got in the mid-week miles. I rode south to the front, then west into the wind again, along the prom, Cooden Drive, Herbrand and the marshes, climbing to Rock Cottage. The backdrop to my solo effort was a moving cyclorama of buildings and shapes looming out of the dark. And then I enjoyed that lovely moment when you turn around, the roar of the wind is silenced and your legs feel like they are powered by a plasma drive.
Remember that for the next two weeks the chain gang will be on Tuesdays, in order to accommodate the festivities.
Regards, Neil
Sunday, 14 December 2014
14/12 HSLCC Club Ride- High And Over
Saturday night was supposed to have been the coldest night of the year, however the weather forecasts said that a warm front would be coming over early in the morning so I went to sleep unconcerned about any ice risk. In the morning I was shocked to find the forecast was wrong, where was the warm front and why is the ice on my car windscreen about a centimetre thick? Checking the forecast again told me that by 9:00 it would be nine degrees so hopefully the ice would soon be gone? Riding carefully up to the Harrow, the roads didn't seem too bad and without much wind it felt rather pleasant. A lot of riders who said they were coming had clearly decided the ice risk was too high but Simon G, Peter Baker, Steve B and Nick had decided to risk it. While the rest of us were grateful for our roubaix backed tights, Nick was just wearing shorts, exclaiming that he refused to recognise this as Winter until post Xmas!
Concerned about the ice , I recommended that we headed towards Pevensey via the coast rather than from Wartling as planned. I assumed that riding on the coast would be warmer than going inland. Simon recommended using the Trade road through battle instead but the familiarity of the coast road won us over. This turned out to be a big mistake.
Heading down Queenway it felt like we were in a winter wonderland as all the trees and grass were completely covered in frost. Taking it easy and just coasting down towards Bexhill road meant that we were all like blocks of ice by the time we got there.
Cycling along the flat coast road our muscles generated some useful heat but when we reached Herbrand Walk the temperature got noticeably colder and suddenly there was ice across much of the road.To be safe we had to ride in the middle of the road where it was drier. Fortunately there was very little traffic around and so managed to avoid pulling over into potentially icy surfaces.
Once we reached Pevensey we were back on more substantial roads with less ice risk and were able to step the pace up, although there was one road we had to divert from when a considerate van driver informed us the road was too icy to ride.
Once we reached Upper Dicker we were suddenly hit by what felt like a warm blast of air from a hair dryer.The temperature shot up by around ten degrees, the promised warm front from the west had thankfully arrived.Before long the ice and frost was but a horrible memory and we could ride in confidence.
Nick and Peter had never done 'high and Over before' so were in for a treat as we ascended the steady gradient before a quick photo opportunity at the top.
The road back along the seven sisters is one of my favourite bits of road, especially this time as we had a bit of a tail wind to push us along. Myself , Pete and Steve stopped off at Birling gap for refreshment while Nick and Simon headed for home. After five minutes trying to work out how to enter the cafe, we headed straight back out again as there was some sort of event going on and it was picked with lots of old folks. We all agreed a stop off at the Pevensey cafe would be a much better option.
The ascent of Beachy Head was another enjoyable first for Pete, as was the fantastic alpine style descent on the other side. Until reaching the the Sovereign Harbour we were joined by a solo rider from Eastbourne. He said he would check the blog so maybe we will see him again?
The excellent food at cafe confirmed we had made the right choice and with bodies refuelled, the final twelve miles were an easy blast home.
Concerned about the ice , I recommended that we headed towards Pevensey via the coast rather than from Wartling as planned. I assumed that riding on the coast would be warmer than going inland. Simon recommended using the Trade road through battle instead but the familiarity of the coast road won us over. This turned out to be a big mistake.
Heading down Queenway it felt like we were in a winter wonderland as all the trees and grass were completely covered in frost. Taking it easy and just coasting down towards Bexhill road meant that we were all like blocks of ice by the time we got there.
Cycling along the flat coast road our muscles generated some useful heat but when we reached Herbrand Walk the temperature got noticeably colder and suddenly there was ice across much of the road.To be safe we had to ride in the middle of the road where it was drier. Fortunately there was very little traffic around and so managed to avoid pulling over into potentially icy surfaces.
Once we reached Pevensey we were back on more substantial roads with less ice risk and were able to step the pace up, although there was one road we had to divert from when a considerate van driver informed us the road was too icy to ride.
Once we reached Upper Dicker we were suddenly hit by what felt like a warm blast of air from a hair dryer.The temperature shot up by around ten degrees, the promised warm front from the west had thankfully arrived.Before long the ice and frost was but a horrible memory and we could ride in confidence.
Nick and Peter had never done 'high and Over before' so were in for a treat as we ascended the steady gradient before a quick photo opportunity at the top.
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| Thankfully The Route Was Now Ice Free! |
The ascent of Beachy Head was another enjoyable first for Pete, as was the fantastic alpine style descent on the other side. Until reaching the the Sovereign Harbour we were joined by a solo rider from Eastbourne. He said he would check the blog so maybe we will see him again?
The excellent food at cafe confirmed we had made the right choice and with bodies refuelled, the final twelve miles were an easy blast home.
Thursday, 11 December 2014
HSLCC Chain-Gang Musical Bikes
Bush, bash, bosh - another tasty chain gang with a good turnout and in good conditions, for November. The thermometer might have said 4 degrees C, but we all agreed it felt warmer, despite the westerly breeze, and also agreed that dry conditions are prized above all.
24 riders made two groups of roughly equal size viable. We formed up and hunkered down into that westerly wind, although it was not too strong. John Vidler and I resolved to ride with the super fast boys (and girls, sorry Ruth!) and this group made good progress through Bexhill. Our rhythm was broken at the South Cliff / Cooden Drive junction by a car, just like last week, but the group was not quite as stretched this time as it sped up and pressed on towards the turn at Cooden Beach.
Dry roads make for tighter, faster turns and the group swooped down and around the Cooden bend, taking the Herbrand turn wide but safe and upping the pace as it skirted the shingly fringe of the private beach. My turn came for a turn at the front, towards the huts before the downward slope. I was struggling but I eventually made the lead a little before the level-crossing, a bit on the limit for me.
Perhaps because my pace was ragged, the group lost shape and riders overtook around the crossing. Then a car came towards us. A rider cut across me to make safety, not realising that I had nowhere to go, as the road at that point narrows and the gutter is littered with potholes. Braking meant I lost touch with the group.
Ok, these things happen, but car lights are easily seen and he could've dropped in behind me. I was not happy. I thought of a few choice words to share but decided I'd bite my lip - I was likely to say more than would be wise. Maybe next time though.
So, I rode on alone, finding the wind was rather more westerly than I had thought, whistling straight into my face as I rode the lanes past the Star Inn and the station at Normans Bay, honking up Spooky Hill and past Rock Cottage. What a dark and desolate spot that is, sticking up into the worst of the weather as it blows in from the English Channel.
Cars came and went as I wove around the marsh bends, bringing with them a pool of light and a blast of air. What do they think when they see me? 'Poor bastard is miles behind' if they're coming from Pevensey roundabout, having already passed the super fasts; or 'Blimey, he's miles ahead, that must be Wiggo!' if they've come from Cooden and passed the fast group. Perhaps they envy us or think we're crazy.
I was caught a couple of turns from the last straight by a group with Michael and, I believe, Ivor in it. I hooked on to the tail and stayed in touch (well, mostly) to the last bend where the swifter riders were already chatting. The marvellous Stuart Hodd was keen to start the return leg, but just as we were to set out more riders appeared, Steve C and Chris among them. A car added further interruption and Stuart forged ahead, keen I later learned to have a more spacious ride than on his outward leg. I teamed up with another rider to try to catch him, but this was folly - Stuart was turning his pedals clean and fast and even with the wind behind me there was no way I was going to catch him.
Some riders pulled past me and I settled into a smooth rhythm, not pushing too hard and fully expecting to be caught by the usual crew somewhere along Herbrand. But to my surprise, they caught me on Spooky Hill, clearly on a mission! I dug in and hung on as Tom 'how low can you go' Norris, Simon 'True Grit' Grogan, Kevin 'Bionic Knees' Hill and one other (I think) performed a tidy group ride all the way to Cooden.
There we caught a rider abandoned by the super-fasts. I shouted to him to join our group, which he did, but he then went off at his own pace. 'What's he doing?' asked a group member. 'Leave him to it' I answered, deciding we were better off carrying on as a group. And so it proved, with the lone-wolf rider soon caught again by us as we made better collective progress. We rode smoothly and efficiently, pulling hard but keeping the group together. Very satisfying.
A final effort towards the end of the leg saw Tom and I pull away for a short but controlled contest. However, honours were even as half the road was blocked by a Clancy-Docwra crew resetting a drain cover. Tom believes he was going to catch me, I believe I was holding a little back. We will never know, but I know I was clearly away and uncatchable. And I'm writing this report, so I get to say what I want!
Simon G reminded me that I'd said last week I'd ride with him and the others from the off. In truth, I fancied I would have a fast night, but of course the wind helps all riders. Ok, next week guys, I'll ride with you the whole return leg, unless optimism again gets the better of me.
I rode back with Tom as far as Rock Cottage, having stood guard of his bike whilst he made an emergency battery stop. Get some rechargeable ones Tom! We found the wind suddenly stronger and colder than on the first outward leg, both taking long turns at the front, limiting our chance of a chat. We did manage to discuss how hard we find it to ride significantly faster than we did six, twelve or more months ago. The necessary training takes more free time than we've got, what with work, wife and kids. Whilst we wait for the opportunity to begin our full Olympic and Tour training regime, we will continue to ride the chain gang, doing what we can to go faster or, at least, go no slower...
The moon again lit my way along Herbrand. This week, the fishermen were offshore, casting from the rocky flats uncovered by a long low tide, their rods lit last night by head torches. I rode on, no cars for the whole length of the road, the only sounds the swish of my tyres, the tick-tick of the crank and a muffled rattle from the tiny saddle bag over rough roads, the wind no longer roaring in my ears as it pushed me along.
This is the musical onomatopoeia of cycling, the soundtrack accompanying our rides - sometimes an irritant, other times reassuring - a combination of rhythms and breathy tunes that travel with us whatever the ride.
Neil Smith
24 riders made two groups of roughly equal size viable. We formed up and hunkered down into that westerly wind, although it was not too strong. John Vidler and I resolved to ride with the super fast boys (and girls, sorry Ruth!) and this group made good progress through Bexhill. Our rhythm was broken at the South Cliff / Cooden Drive junction by a car, just like last week, but the group was not quite as stretched this time as it sped up and pressed on towards the turn at Cooden Beach.
Dry roads make for tighter, faster turns and the group swooped down and around the Cooden bend, taking the Herbrand turn wide but safe and upping the pace as it skirted the shingly fringe of the private beach. My turn came for a turn at the front, towards the huts before the downward slope. I was struggling but I eventually made the lead a little before the level-crossing, a bit on the limit for me.
Perhaps because my pace was ragged, the group lost shape and riders overtook around the crossing. Then a car came towards us. A rider cut across me to make safety, not realising that I had nowhere to go, as the road at that point narrows and the gutter is littered with potholes. Braking meant I lost touch with the group.
Ok, these things happen, but car lights are easily seen and he could've dropped in behind me. I was not happy. I thought of a few choice words to share but decided I'd bite my lip - I was likely to say more than would be wise. Maybe next time though.
So, I rode on alone, finding the wind was rather more westerly than I had thought, whistling straight into my face as I rode the lanes past the Star Inn and the station at Normans Bay, honking up Spooky Hill and past Rock Cottage. What a dark and desolate spot that is, sticking up into the worst of the weather as it blows in from the English Channel.
Cars came and went as I wove around the marsh bends, bringing with them a pool of light and a blast of air. What do they think when they see me? 'Poor bastard is miles behind' if they're coming from Pevensey roundabout, having already passed the super fasts; or 'Blimey, he's miles ahead, that must be Wiggo!' if they've come from Cooden and passed the fast group. Perhaps they envy us or think we're crazy.
I was caught a couple of turns from the last straight by a group with Michael and, I believe, Ivor in it. I hooked on to the tail and stayed in touch (well, mostly) to the last bend where the swifter riders were already chatting. The marvellous Stuart Hodd was keen to start the return leg, but just as we were to set out more riders appeared, Steve C and Chris among them. A car added further interruption and Stuart forged ahead, keen I later learned to have a more spacious ride than on his outward leg. I teamed up with another rider to try to catch him, but this was folly - Stuart was turning his pedals clean and fast and even with the wind behind me there was no way I was going to catch him.
Some riders pulled past me and I settled into a smooth rhythm, not pushing too hard and fully expecting to be caught by the usual crew somewhere along Herbrand. But to my surprise, they caught me on Spooky Hill, clearly on a mission! I dug in and hung on as Tom 'how low can you go' Norris, Simon 'True Grit' Grogan, Kevin 'Bionic Knees' Hill and one other (I think) performed a tidy group ride all the way to Cooden.
There we caught a rider abandoned by the super-fasts. I shouted to him to join our group, which he did, but he then went off at his own pace. 'What's he doing?' asked a group member. 'Leave him to it' I answered, deciding we were better off carrying on as a group. And so it proved, with the lone-wolf rider soon caught again by us as we made better collective progress. We rode smoothly and efficiently, pulling hard but keeping the group together. Very satisfying.
A final effort towards the end of the leg saw Tom and I pull away for a short but controlled contest. However, honours were even as half the road was blocked by a Clancy-Docwra crew resetting a drain cover. Tom believes he was going to catch me, I believe I was holding a little back. We will never know, but I know I was clearly away and uncatchable. And I'm writing this report, so I get to say what I want!
Simon G reminded me that I'd said last week I'd ride with him and the others from the off. In truth, I fancied I would have a fast night, but of course the wind helps all riders. Ok, next week guys, I'll ride with you the whole return leg, unless optimism again gets the better of me.
I rode back with Tom as far as Rock Cottage, having stood guard of his bike whilst he made an emergency battery stop. Get some rechargeable ones Tom! We found the wind suddenly stronger and colder than on the first outward leg, both taking long turns at the front, limiting our chance of a chat. We did manage to discuss how hard we find it to ride significantly faster than we did six, twelve or more months ago. The necessary training takes more free time than we've got, what with work, wife and kids. Whilst we wait for the opportunity to begin our full Olympic and Tour training regime, we will continue to ride the chain gang, doing what we can to go faster or, at least, go no slower...
The moon again lit my way along Herbrand. This week, the fishermen were offshore, casting from the rocky flats uncovered by a long low tide, their rods lit last night by head torches. I rode on, no cars for the whole length of the road, the only sounds the swish of my tyres, the tick-tick of the crank and a muffled rattle from the tiny saddle bag over rough roads, the wind no longer roaring in my ears as it pushed me along.
This is the musical onomatopoeia of cycling, the soundtrack accompanying our rides - sometimes an irritant, other times reassuring - a combination of rhythms and breathy tunes that travel with us whatever the ride.
Neil Smith
Sunday, 7 December 2014
6 December- Bacon Butty and Pre-Bacon Butty
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| Frosty But With Spectacular Sunshine! |
At Normans Bay we met Pete Buss to make a grand total of three riders, some of the other regulars either avoiding the cold or saving themselves for Peter Tadros’ annual hack ride later in the day. Heading toward the Pevensey roundabout we discussed which of our usual routes to take, settling on Beachy Head in the hope that a crisp clear morning would reward us with some spectacular views.
A combination of the low temperature and Malcom still recovering from the after effects of a recent cold meant we held a steady pace into Eastbourne and along the seafront before starting the ascent up to Beachy Head. Upon arrival the views weren’t as good as hoped for with a light haze obscuring the horizon. Never the less, the clear air and low sun caught the eye of Pete who grabbed the opportunity to take some rather arty photos with his phone.
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| Paul Feels The Chill! |
Needing to get back to family, I left Malcom and Pete at De Paulos on Bexhill seafront as they went order a hot coffee, and to see if anyone else was going to turn up for the Bacon Butty run. No one else did turn up, so Malcom and Pete made their way to Chilley Farm, wisely avoiding Horsewalk, for a well-earned bacon and egg roll.
Paul Butler
6 December- hack Bike Ride To Brighton
This was our annual 'Hack Bike' ride to Brighton. Numbers were down on last year but Pete T still managed to attract a good number of eleven riders which included Pete Baker and John S on their inaugural rides.
Things got off to a bad start before the ride had even started when Derek suffered a blow out to the side wall to one of his tyres. One quick visit to Halfords for an over priced gator skin quickly sorted this out.
After a fifteen minute delay we were off. Predictably PT did his usual thing and set off at his own considerable pace with a few of his faster acolytes trying to hang on to his back wheel. This meant that before long we were all strung out along the length of battle road. I find it takes me quite a while these days for my legs to get working and so was not surprised to find myself right at the back, this felt more like a solo ride rather than a group ride and I felt very vulnerable with the heavy traffic rushing past me.
It wasn't until near the turning for husrtmenceux that I finally managed to catch up with some of the group (John S and Derek) but soon after I spotted Pete Bryrne at the side of the road. John and myself went to his assistance. The chain had come of his fixie but Pete had no spanner so there was nothing we could do about it. I tried ringing the other three fixie riders but no-one was answering their phone so we were stuck . Fortunately with a bit of brute force Pete managed to get the chain back on and we were off. We now rode steadily along the A21 towards lewes and were careful to hold our line as we were subjected to some poor overtaking by some vehicles (surely there must be a better route than this!). We kept expecting PT and the others to be waiting for us but for mile after mile we rode on feeling abandoned by them.
Finally we met up with the others at the first pub stop of 2013. Disappointingly the pub has now closed down, so without much delay we were off again but thank goodness we were now all together again in a much safer group of eleven and were able to get off the busy A road and onto the much quieter B2192. From here on the ride became enjoyable and before long we came to our second scheduled pub stop but this one was also closed down!
Finally we arrived at the Green man at laughton, a pub that had not closed down. Not long after we arrived Nigel declared he couldn't find his garmin. He knew it was somewhere in the pub but he couldn't locate it . After us all looking high and low we had given up, thinking someone must have knicked it but it turned out it was buried deep inside Nigel's lycra and he had been sitting on it all along, LOL We only had one pint but the alcohol seemed to greatly effect us and we rejoined the route full of optimism and speed enjoying the mainly downhill riding into lewes.
Our usual pub by the river opposite the Harvey's brewery was too busy but the one around the corner was almost empty despite selling excellent beer. Emerging from the pub the cold really hit us, now the sun had gone in the temperature was down to around four degrees. Pete and Nigel were wearing face masks against the cold and looked more like house burglars rather then cyclists. Dan and PT knew a route through Lewes that would get us out onto the Plumpton road without having to go on the main roads. They agreed to go slowly so that no-one would get dropped. Unfortunately their idea of slowly was rather different to most peoples and we tore around the narrow streets of lewes at what seemed a dangerous pace knowing that without a gps file if you got dropped you would never find the route to Plumpton .
Somehow we had all stayed together and now began the steady drag up to Plumpton. PT put the hammer down and it was a case of deja vu as we all became spread out. This time I didn't mind and was happy to ride with Derek in the cold and dark enjoying the beautiful full moon that helped light up the roads and the spooky trees along side .
Our favourite Plumpton pub stop (half Moon) was as wonderful as ever. Some of us wanted another pint there but we were out voted two to one (probably a good call) so it was back on the road for the main event, the climb up the 'Beacon'. Everyone was in silent contemplation as we hit the initial slopes of this famous climb. This ascent really is epic as it winds it way up and round, the sight of the glittering yellow lights of Brighton in the distance were spectacular and it was almost a shame to reach the top.
Now it was time for the wonderful descent down into Brighton. Almost immediately PT had to pull over, a pedal on his fixie had managed to detach itself. None of us had an allen key large enough to put it on properly but PT managed to wind it part the way back. Pete Byrne's rear light was dead so we took a frog (pitifully weak) light from PTs bike and put it onto Pete B's seat post but I considered the light so poor I said I would stay behind him to give some rear end over. Pete B was by now completely done in and just couldn't push the pedals on his fixie any more. His bike has no free wheel hub so Dan kindly agreed to swop his free wheel fixie with pete . This meant Dan had to endure a terribly uncomfortable ride down the beacon declaring pete's fixie the worst bike he had ever ridden.
Eventually we entered the streets of Brighton but Pete B and Dan were so done and cold (it was now -2 degrees C) that they were desperate for sugar and were riding rather erratically. A couple of choc bars from a nearby shop soon put them right and finally we were able to regroup with the others at the pub nearest the station .
We were fortunate to all get into a nice but expensive tai restaurant before finishing the day with the train ride home.
Hats off to Nigel, John and Malc who decided that despite the sub zero temperatures they were going to ride all the way back home!
Another eventful hack bike ride completed!
Things got off to a bad start before the ride had even started when Derek suffered a blow out to the side wall to one of his tyres. One quick visit to Halfords for an over priced gator skin quickly sorted this out.
After a fifteen minute delay we were off. Predictably PT did his usual thing and set off at his own considerable pace with a few of his faster acolytes trying to hang on to his back wheel. This meant that before long we were all strung out along the length of battle road. I find it takes me quite a while these days for my legs to get working and so was not surprised to find myself right at the back, this felt more like a solo ride rather than a group ride and I felt very vulnerable with the heavy traffic rushing past me.
It wasn't until near the turning for husrtmenceux that I finally managed to catch up with some of the group (John S and Derek) but soon after I spotted Pete Bryrne at the side of the road. John and myself went to his assistance. The chain had come of his fixie but Pete had no spanner so there was nothing we could do about it. I tried ringing the other three fixie riders but no-one was answering their phone so we were stuck . Fortunately with a bit of brute force Pete managed to get the chain back on and we were off. We now rode steadily along the A21 towards lewes and were careful to hold our line as we were subjected to some poor overtaking by some vehicles (surely there must be a better route than this!). We kept expecting PT and the others to be waiting for us but for mile after mile we rode on feeling abandoned by them.
Finally we met up with the others at the first pub stop of 2013. Disappointingly the pub has now closed down, so without much delay we were off again but thank goodness we were now all together again in a much safer group of eleven and were able to get off the busy A road and onto the much quieter B2192. From here on the ride became enjoyable and before long we came to our second scheduled pub stop but this one was also closed down!
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| At Last A Pub That Is Open! |
Our usual pub by the river opposite the Harvey's brewery was too busy but the one around the corner was almost empty despite selling excellent beer. Emerging from the pub the cold really hit us, now the sun had gone in the temperature was down to around four degrees. Pete and Nigel were wearing face masks against the cold and looked more like house burglars rather then cyclists. Dan and PT knew a route through Lewes that would get us out onto the Plumpton road without having to go on the main roads. They agreed to go slowly so that no-one would get dropped. Unfortunately their idea of slowly was rather different to most peoples and we tore around the narrow streets of lewes at what seemed a dangerous pace knowing that without a gps file if you got dropped you would never find the route to Plumpton .
Somehow we had all stayed together and now began the steady drag up to Plumpton. PT put the hammer down and it was a case of deja vu as we all became spread out. This time I didn't mind and was happy to ride with Derek in the cold and dark enjoying the beautiful full moon that helped light up the roads and the spooky trees along side .
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| Malc Agrees, Pete's Bike Is Hideous! |
Now it was time for the wonderful descent down into Brighton. Almost immediately PT had to pull over, a pedal on his fixie had managed to detach itself. None of us had an allen key large enough to put it on properly but PT managed to wind it part the way back. Pete Byrne's rear light was dead so we took a frog (pitifully weak) light from PTs bike and put it onto Pete B's seat post but I considered the light so poor I said I would stay behind him to give some rear end over. Pete B was by now completely done in and just couldn't push the pedals on his fixie any more. His bike has no free wheel hub so Dan kindly agreed to swop his free wheel fixie with pete . This meant Dan had to endure a terribly uncomfortable ride down the beacon declaring pete's fixie the worst bike he had ever ridden.
Eventually we entered the streets of Brighton but Pete B and Dan were so done and cold (it was now -2 degrees C) that they were desperate for sugar and were riding rather erratically. A couple of choc bars from a nearby shop soon put them right and finally we were able to regroup with the others at the pub nearest the station .
We were fortunate to all get into a nice but expensive tai restaurant before finishing the day with the train ride home.
Hats off to Nigel, John and Malc who decided that despite the sub zero temperatures they were going to ride all the way back home!
Another eventful hack bike ride completed!
Thursday, 4 December 2014
Cold as a Cockney in Cockfosters
I think we can safely say the unseasonably warm and dry weather has ended. Just 3 degrees C was showing on the thermometer as I left home for Galley Hill, joining 18 other hardy souls for the Wednesday evening chain gang. This is proper chain gang riding, that is either cold and or wet conditions, in which all participants prove they are worthy of 'kudos' and that they can live up to rule 5.
Given the lower number of riders, we dispensed with separate speed-rated groups, trusting instead to natural speed selection to sort the super-fast from the merely fast, the wheat from the chaff, the cocks from the hens. It had, as usual, been a rush to get to the ride on time, even though I'd worked from home. Served me right for fussing and faffing over what combination of kit to wear. But now I could relax, stretch out on the bike as I called rested legs into action, warming up by working hard. It felt really good after 10 hours stuck on the laptop.
The truly superb Stuart Hodd and Barney 'Crank-Breaker' Willard headed a good lead out at a fast but bearable pace. I managed, for once, to stay with them as far as South Cliff when I was a little confused to be invited to ride 'through the middle' as Stuart and Barney parted left and right. I lost some momentum but pressed hard up the slope, chasing Ruth, Michael and others to the junction with Cooden Drive. We slowed significantly for a car, the group stretching out on turning left, as faster riders accelerated harder than the rest.
But I hung on still all along Cooden, with Stuart and Barney again leading, slowing the group to a sensible pace on wet, slippery corners. We swung cautiously left onto Herbrand and this time the hammer came down that bit harder. I couldn't accelerate any faster and I was sifted into a group of one as the genuinely powerful riders grouped and sped towards the level crossing. To my left I saw the green and blue glow of beach anglers tip lights, swinging back and then forward as they cast into cold water. Stuart Buckland came up alongside me, suffering from a week off the bike, and we agreed to rotate as a duo all the way to Pevensey roundabout. We got it cock-on, each taking a 30 second or so turn on the front before easing a little to let the other press forward.
We didn't wait around long - the sweat of the outward leg was quickly chilling us - so we set off again as one group. It was a less tidy Grand Depart and I soon found myself between the faster lead group and a number of smaller groups, all making progress at a pace that suited them. Three riders headed by Malcolm caught me near Spooky Hill. I tagged on the back, not able to go fast enough to take a turn on the front, and impressed by Malcolm's strength. I held on up the hill and then pushed down hill and managed to take the lead for a while.
I realised then that the wind was stronger and colder than I'd thought. I struggled to maintain a decent pace and I was dropped before the Star Inn, as was another from that group a bit further along. I rode solo from the Star to near the end of Herbrand, simultaneously catching the other dropped rider and being caught by John V and Simon G. Next week I will remember to ride with them the whole way back as they catch me on Herbrand nearly every week! That is unless I'm feeling cocky and fancy mixing it with the super-fasts.
The après chain gang was a civilised affair, riding with Peter Buss and Stuart Buckland. We discussed doing a 'Cheese Fondu' 130km ride before Christmas, as a Strava challenge, and also the pleasure of riding in cold weather if suitably layered and insulated. It beats getting soaked.
My journey from Normans Bay was back into that cold wind - head down, teeth gritted and eyes watering. Some houses are now bedecked with white-light reindeer, electric icicles and dazzling strings of multi-coloured bulbs. The near-full moon broke through the cloud and shone off the road alongside the beach at Cooden and again I rode a short stretch without lights, perfectly capable of seeing my way, drinking in the cold clean air and thinking, hoping, dreaming that 'next week will be warmer...'
(With thanks to MP Penny Mordaunt for poultry-related inspiration).
Neil Smith
Given the lower number of riders, we dispensed with separate speed-rated groups, trusting instead to natural speed selection to sort the super-fast from the merely fast, the wheat from the chaff, the cocks from the hens. It had, as usual, been a rush to get to the ride on time, even though I'd worked from home. Served me right for fussing and faffing over what combination of kit to wear. But now I could relax, stretch out on the bike as I called rested legs into action, warming up by working hard. It felt really good after 10 hours stuck on the laptop.
The truly superb Stuart Hodd and Barney 'Crank-Breaker' Willard headed a good lead out at a fast but bearable pace. I managed, for once, to stay with them as far as South Cliff when I was a little confused to be invited to ride 'through the middle' as Stuart and Barney parted left and right. I lost some momentum but pressed hard up the slope, chasing Ruth, Michael and others to the junction with Cooden Drive. We slowed significantly for a car, the group stretching out on turning left, as faster riders accelerated harder than the rest.
But I hung on still all along Cooden, with Stuart and Barney again leading, slowing the group to a sensible pace on wet, slippery corners. We swung cautiously left onto Herbrand and this time the hammer came down that bit harder. I couldn't accelerate any faster and I was sifted into a group of one as the genuinely powerful riders grouped and sped towards the level crossing. To my left I saw the green and blue glow of beach anglers tip lights, swinging back and then forward as they cast into cold water. Stuart Buckland came up alongside me, suffering from a week off the bike, and we agreed to rotate as a duo all the way to Pevensey roundabout. We got it cock-on, each taking a 30 second or so turn on the front before easing a little to let the other press forward.
We didn't wait around long - the sweat of the outward leg was quickly chilling us - so we set off again as one group. It was a less tidy Grand Depart and I soon found myself between the faster lead group and a number of smaller groups, all making progress at a pace that suited them. Three riders headed by Malcolm caught me near Spooky Hill. I tagged on the back, not able to go fast enough to take a turn on the front, and impressed by Malcolm's strength. I held on up the hill and then pushed down hill and managed to take the lead for a while.
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| Steve And Pete Return To Their More Normal Positions At The Back! |
The après chain gang was a civilised affair, riding with Peter Buss and Stuart Buckland. We discussed doing a 'Cheese Fondu' 130km ride before Christmas, as a Strava challenge, and also the pleasure of riding in cold weather if suitably layered and insulated. It beats getting soaked.
My journey from Normans Bay was back into that cold wind - head down, teeth gritted and eyes watering. Some houses are now bedecked with white-light reindeer, electric icicles and dazzling strings of multi-coloured bulbs. The near-full moon broke through the cloud and shone off the road alongside the beach at Cooden and again I rode a short stretch without lights, perfectly capable of seeing my way, drinking in the cold clean air and thinking, hoping, dreaming that 'next week will be warmer...'
(With thanks to MP Penny Mordaunt for poultry-related inspiration).
Neil Smith
Tuesday, 2 December 2014
All's well that ends well on the Bacon Butty Run of Saturday 29 November
When I arrived at Di Paolo's a fraction before 09:30 there were two bikes already leant up near the wide open doors in front of the ice cream counter. It was a good end of November temperature but I am not sure there would have been much passing summer trade for cornettos. Four Pre BBR rides had been on a swift ride since two were on fast new steeds they wanted to put through their paces. The old hands tried to slow them down by choosing a muddy section, which would also make the proud owners of the new bikes want to wash and polish them the moment they got home!
Ivan also popped in for a light breakfast on his way back from a ride and soon the cafe was filling up with cyclists. Eight of us set out on the BBR picking up two other riders within minutes. The plan was to go to the Sovereign Harbour cafe, plugged by Peter B, using a similar route to last week. To miss out Horse Walk we turned right on to the back end of our TT course to Ninfield after Whydown, instead of left to Hooe, but this week went on to the outskirts of Herstmonceux then taking the usual left almost to the church and then across the marsh to Rickey. All went to plan apart from a puncture midway across the marsh, but it was gloriously sunny so we basked and chatted waiting for the fix.
It then went a bit wrong .........
I had said in an email and announced during the ride that we would take the usual left at Hankham, the left that has always (*) been used for decades on club runs when coming back from Hailsham or from Rickney. My group were a bit behind the others and took the left turn riding on to catch them up. The Denny CC, motto every man for himself, rider must have shot past the Hankham left and led the responsible Hastings CC riders astray. Several knew the turn and eventually spoke up so they did a u turn to start chasing down the group that were ahead and chasing them!
My group did the usual to Westham and the left at the Crem roundabout and at the start of a short rise left on to Netherfiled Avenue then right on to Telscombe and on to the main road. This is where we went wrong since I had emailed we would turn left then at the next round about after a few hundred yards turn right to Sovereign Harbour. I have not gone there often, or for a long time, and we soon realised it was the wrong roundabout. When we got back the main road the other group were full steam ahead (they missed out Netherfield Avenue and Telscombe ) on their way to Pevensey Bay. So much for meeting up at the Sovereign harbour Cafe and trying it out! So we set off in pursuit. We all needed up in Pevensey Bakery, contrary to the agreed plan, but all is well that ends well.
As we came back in to Bexhill Steve C announced that he fancied a lunch time pint in the Old Town. So Malcolm D and I decided we better join him in the Royal Standard where we met an intersecting character who told us his life story, regaled at length without letting the three of us get too many words in. He has a bike and has said he would look us up and come out on a BBR. He is unlikely to be a club racing champion, though you never can tell, but he would have no trouble taking Paul Baxter on in one of our unofficial award categories if he does not get out of breath on a steady paced ride .......
Chris Parker
Ivan also popped in for a light breakfast on his way back from a ride and soon the cafe was filling up with cyclists. Eight of us set out on the BBR picking up two other riders within minutes. The plan was to go to the Sovereign Harbour cafe, plugged by Peter B, using a similar route to last week. To miss out Horse Walk we turned right on to the back end of our TT course to Ninfield after Whydown, instead of left to Hooe, but this week went on to the outskirts of Herstmonceux then taking the usual left almost to the church and then across the marsh to Rickey. All went to plan apart from a puncture midway across the marsh, but it was gloriously sunny so we basked and chatted waiting for the fix.
It then went a bit wrong .........
I had said in an email and announced during the ride that we would take the usual left at Hankham, the left that has always (*) been used for decades on club runs when coming back from Hailsham or from Rickney. My group were a bit behind the others and took the left turn riding on to catch them up. The Denny CC, motto every man for himself, rider must have shot past the Hankham left and led the responsible Hastings CC riders astray. Several knew the turn and eventually spoke up so they did a u turn to start chasing down the group that were ahead and chasing them!
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| Some BBR Boys Enjoying The Winter Sun! |
My group did the usual to Westham and the left at the Crem roundabout and at the start of a short rise left on to Netherfiled Avenue then right on to Telscombe and on to the main road. This is where we went wrong since I had emailed we would turn left then at the next round about after a few hundred yards turn right to Sovereign Harbour. I have not gone there often, or for a long time, and we soon realised it was the wrong roundabout. When we got back the main road the other group were full steam ahead (they missed out Netherfield Avenue and Telscombe ) on their way to Pevensey Bay. So much for meeting up at the Sovereign harbour Cafe and trying it out! So we set off in pursuit. We all needed up in Pevensey Bakery, contrary to the agreed plan, but all is well that ends well.
As we came back in to Bexhill Steve C announced that he fancied a lunch time pint in the Old Town. So Malcolm D and I decided we better join him in the Royal Standard where we met an intersecting character who told us his life story, regaled at length without letting the three of us get too many words in. He has a bike and has said he would look us up and come out on a BBR. He is unlikely to be a club racing champion, though you never can tell, but he would have no trouble taking Paul Baxter on in one of our unofficial award categories if he does not get out of breath on a steady paced ride .......
Chris Parker
Saturday, 29 November 2014
28/11 HSLCC Fri Night Ride- Black Friday
Just occasionally riders on the Friday night ride have to suffer insults from ignorant members of the public or more often, car drivers, but on this 'Black Friday' we were to have no less than three such incidents.
Arriving at the lodge Diego was a bit anxious after a black pick up truck followed him and Simon up through Ore village before overtaking them with just a few inches to spare, then just as we were about to set off, the truck appeared again and someone aggressively shouted out 'get some road tax'.This rather unnerved us and I secretly hoped we would not run into the 'black truck' again.
The weather didn't help our nerves as it was supposed to have been bone dry but it was now raining. This was particularly worrisome for Malcolm who was on a fixed wheel . Myself and Malc descended Battery Hill a minute ahead of the others at a safe sedate space . By Winchelsea we were all back together as one group and even managed to get a 'through and off' going up to the entrance to the reserve. Thankfully the rain had now stopped and we could now appreciate how mild and windless the night was. No-one seemed to want to push the pace and we rode very sedately through the reserve and along the harbour road.
Our second incident took place as we went past the chip shop in Rye. Some overweight gentleman clutching a steaming back of chips, nearly walked straight out in front of us before just stopping in time. Annoyed at this he called out 'you are all gay!' which caused much merriment . Now began the serious task of the five mile drag up to Broadoak, Malc and Steve B lead the way with the others doing through and off in an effort to catch them. I myself was content to ride at my own pace and was just pleased to arrive not too long after the main pack . The constant climbing in such mild weather had caused me to over heat and it was a relief to take off the wind proof and let some sweat evaporate.
Even without Marcus present, we descended Brede hill at a fast pace and I managed to bag a second fastest PB without any stress.
Just Stonestile now awaited us but our numbers had dwindled somewhat as JV and Steve B had broken away for home while Malc on a relatively high geared fixie had decided to stick to the main road instead . All went well despite the return of the rain, until an impatient car driver at the top of the climb informed us that we were all a bunch of 'wankers', charming! I for one am glad its only
Black Friday' once a year!
Arriving at the lodge Diego was a bit anxious after a black pick up truck followed him and Simon up through Ore village before overtaking them with just a few inches to spare, then just as we were about to set off, the truck appeared again and someone aggressively shouted out 'get some road tax'.This rather unnerved us and I secretly hoped we would not run into the 'black truck' again.
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| Diego And Simon Unnerved By 'Black Truck' Man! |
Our second incident took place as we went past the chip shop in Rye. Some overweight gentleman clutching a steaming back of chips, nearly walked straight out in front of us before just stopping in time. Annoyed at this he called out 'you are all gay!' which caused much merriment . Now began the serious task of the five mile drag up to Broadoak, Malc and Steve B lead the way with the others doing through and off in an effort to catch them. I myself was content to ride at my own pace and was just pleased to arrive not too long after the main pack . The constant climbing in such mild weather had caused me to over heat and it was a relief to take off the wind proof and let some sweat evaporate.
Even without Marcus present, we descended Brede hill at a fast pace and I managed to bag a second fastest PB without any stress.
Just Stonestile now awaited us but our numbers had dwindled somewhat as JV and Steve B had broken away for home while Malc on a relatively high geared fixie had decided to stick to the main road instead . All went well despite the return of the rain, until an impatient car driver at the top of the climb informed us that we were all a bunch of 'wankers', charming! I for one am glad its only
Black Friday' once a year!
Friday, 28 November 2014
Chain Gang Goes Surfing
Washed, dried and oiled. Metal polished, spokes buffed, rims checked. Brakes adjusted, lights charged and rider dressed ready for action. Garage door up and out into the dark, lights and Garmin on, feet clipped in. And I'm off down the road, eager for a hard ride after three days bashing a laptop. Chain gang time - my antidote to too much work and not enough play.
It was a classic November evening following a classic November day - gloomy, damp, drizzly, dark and bloody dismal. But the wind was mostly light and southerly, my fresh legs pressed down and the bike moved forward with pleasing ease. I hacked through the traffic to the rendezvous feeling like I could ride all night.
There was another good turnout with twenty riders making the start and four late arrivals tagging on later. The super-fasts sped off in a pack of ten, shortly followed by the fasts in another orderly group that kept a good shape until South Cliff. The drizzle had become heavy rain, quickly soaking through my kit to my skin - luckily, not a cold night but not all that warm either.
As in pro rides, the hills whittle away at groups, sorting riders into bunches of a similar speed. The ten fasts became nine, and then seven as we hit the lower slopes of Spooky Mountain. Peter Buss and I were just hanging on up the slope, chasing John 'Electric Legs' Vidler and 'Young Man' Michael, amongst others. I managed to keep in touch and stay with the group to the roundabout but Peter fell away to complete a short solo TT to the layby.
By now, the heavy rain had eased slightly, having already soaked us as we rode along Bexhill front, Cooden & Herbrand. My gloves were squishy bags of tepid water, my shirts drenched and heavy with chilling water. Why was I doing this? Oh yes, it's fun. No, really, it is. Honest, I love it!
The roads were more water than tarmac. Riding through the spray of the rider in front was more challenging than coping with the rain. Either way, it was hard to see where I was going as my glasses were covered in water droplets and muck, scattering the bright red light of the rider in front into a dazzling, blinding firework display. I peaked over the top of them, squinting through the water running into my eyes and spitting out the grit washed into my mouth. Snot was blown down onto my top, water squelched in the shorts pad. Ah, the glamour of cycling!
This was the time for good group riding and fellow chain gangers did not disappoint. Pelting across the marshes at 19 to 25 mph, a few centimetres from the guy in front, an arm width from the guy to your side, whilst maintaining a smooth, safe line takes some doing. The group rode an excellent through and off the whole way out, coping superbly with traffic, potholes and puddles. I rode my third fastest chain gang without pushing too hard - further proof to me that you'll get a faster ride working together than working alone.
We didn't hang around at the turn, but set off promptly to keep warm, having seen six or so Eastbourne riders head for home. I settled into a swift group of six to seven riders that stayed together for the whole ride to the lights - Simon G, John V, Peter B early on, Young Man Michael, Tom 'Cheeky-Chops' Norris and another whose name I've lost (sorry). It was a great group ride at a good pace, thanks guys.
The usual chain gang buzz was shorter than usual; not less energetic, just a bit damp and quick as riders headed home or to the pub. Time only for a cheery thumbs up from the excellent Stuart Hodd. A night for chatting indoors, not out, drying off in front of a fire and warming up with a hot cuppa. Bliss!
So, I didn't do that, but rode back across the marshes with Peter and Tom, getting splashed all over again as we split the same puddles in two for a second time. The ride back to Bexhill was strangely bright and quiet. A carless Herbrand tempted me to switch off my front lights. I rode along the dark, shiny road, my tyres fizzing through the sheen of water and my eyes picking out the sea anglers on the beach and the fishing boats a little offshore. These are the things I miss when in the brightly-lit, speeding group.
But sometimes it's good to open up to what I'm riding through - the smell of the rain and the sea, the bright fuzzy glow of Bexhill or Eastbourne through mist and spray, the fox at the edge of the road - and connect with the moment. Riding can be too much about getting there and not enough about enjoying the ride.
...Dirty, wet and watery. Metal grimy, spokes dull, rims streaked. Brakes grinding, lights dim and rider drenched. Garage door up and I'm into the dry, lights and Garmin off, feet unclipped. And I'm home, eager to get changed after riding 40 soaking kilometres. I'm also filthy, clothes and skin flecked with what looks like soot or coal dust. But I'm satisfied and annoyingly chirpy as I bustle into the house - the chain gang buzz is a great feeling.
Neil Smith
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| Tom Cruise Is Not The Only Tom Who Can Be A 'Rain Man' ! |
There was another good turnout with twenty riders making the start and four late arrivals tagging on later. The super-fasts sped off in a pack of ten, shortly followed by the fasts in another orderly group that kept a good shape until South Cliff. The drizzle had become heavy rain, quickly soaking through my kit to my skin - luckily, not a cold night but not all that warm either.
As in pro rides, the hills whittle away at groups, sorting riders into bunches of a similar speed. The ten fasts became nine, and then seven as we hit the lower slopes of Spooky Mountain. Peter Buss and I were just hanging on up the slope, chasing John 'Electric Legs' Vidler and 'Young Man' Michael, amongst others. I managed to keep in touch and stay with the group to the roundabout but Peter fell away to complete a short solo TT to the layby.
By now, the heavy rain had eased slightly, having already soaked us as we rode along Bexhill front, Cooden & Herbrand. My gloves were squishy bags of tepid water, my shirts drenched and heavy with chilling water. Why was I doing this? Oh yes, it's fun. No, really, it is. Honest, I love it!
The roads were more water than tarmac. Riding through the spray of the rider in front was more challenging than coping with the rain. Either way, it was hard to see where I was going as my glasses were covered in water droplets and muck, scattering the bright red light of the rider in front into a dazzling, blinding firework display. I peaked over the top of them, squinting through the water running into my eyes and spitting out the grit washed into my mouth. Snot was blown down onto my top, water squelched in the shorts pad. Ah, the glamour of cycling!
This was the time for good group riding and fellow chain gangers did not disappoint. Pelting across the marshes at 19 to 25 mph, a few centimetres from the guy in front, an arm width from the guy to your side, whilst maintaining a smooth, safe line takes some doing. The group rode an excellent through and off the whole way out, coping superbly with traffic, potholes and puddles. I rode my third fastest chain gang without pushing too hard - further proof to me that you'll get a faster ride working together than working alone.
We didn't hang around at the turn, but set off promptly to keep warm, having seen six or so Eastbourne riders head for home. I settled into a swift group of six to seven riders that stayed together for the whole ride to the lights - Simon G, John V, Peter B early on, Young Man Michael, Tom 'Cheeky-Chops' Norris and another whose name I've lost (sorry). It was a great group ride at a good pace, thanks guys.
The usual chain gang buzz was shorter than usual; not less energetic, just a bit damp and quick as riders headed home or to the pub. Time only for a cheery thumbs up from the excellent Stuart Hodd. A night for chatting indoors, not out, drying off in front of a fire and warming up with a hot cuppa. Bliss!
So, I didn't do that, but rode back across the marshes with Peter and Tom, getting splashed all over again as we split the same puddles in two for a second time. The ride back to Bexhill was strangely bright and quiet. A carless Herbrand tempted me to switch off my front lights. I rode along the dark, shiny road, my tyres fizzing through the sheen of water and my eyes picking out the sea anglers on the beach and the fishing boats a little offshore. These are the things I miss when in the brightly-lit, speeding group.
But sometimes it's good to open up to what I'm riding through - the smell of the rain and the sea, the bright fuzzy glow of Bexhill or Eastbourne through mist and spray, the fox at the edge of the road - and connect with the moment. Riding can be too much about getting there and not enough about enjoying the ride.
...Dirty, wet and watery. Metal grimy, spokes dull, rims streaked. Brakes grinding, lights dim and rider drenched. Garage door up and I'm into the dry, lights and Garmin off, feet unclipped. And I'm home, eager to get changed after riding 40 soaking kilometres. I'm also filthy, clothes and skin flecked with what looks like soot or coal dust. But I'm satisfied and annoyingly chirpy as I bustle into the house - the chain gang buzz is a great feeling.
Neil Smith
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| Nigel Comes Out Despite the Rain, To Get Away From His His Java/C++ Programming Deadline Dilemma! |
Sunday, 23 November 2014
23/11 HSLCC Club Ride- Wittersham Wet Lives Up To The Name
With such terrible weather forecast I wasn't expecting more than a few riders to turn up and so was delighted that I was joined by six other masochists. I had pre-warned everyone to bring wet weather gear and so was flabbergasted to see Tom arrive in just a summer short sleeve top, no tights and worse of all no waterproof! Steve D was his normal impatient self and wanted to get off bang on 8:00 rather than waiting for the customary departure time of 8:10. In the end we couldn't get off until 8;20 as John S had phoned to say he had had to fix a puncture but was on his way.
We ignored our Garmins and headed directly for Appledore via Pett and Rye. So far the promised rain had not arrived, so to avoid overheating we had all taken our jackets off. Ivan and Malc seemed to be content to do much of the work on the front on the long ride out to Appledore which was pleasantly easy on what was a windless day.
Our luck with the weather continued all the way to Peasmarsh where there was a moment to take a photo, eat a snack bar and take a pee.
Just past Beckley we came across two large black Labradors running about all over the main road, we guess they must have escaped from the neighbouring house so Malc went over to let the owners know. While this was going on the rain started falling steadily so it was now time for us to pull on the waterproofs. We didn't mind too much as we were just grateful to have got two thirds into the ride without them. We did feel for Tom though in his sopping wet summer kit!
As time went on the rain became heavier, so Tom and Adam decided to leave the route at Cripp's corner and take the shortest route home . Myself and Malc bid them farewell and wished Adam good luck as his wife is now two days overdue for the birth of their second child. The others had got ahead of us and were far off in the distance. It was too wet to push the pace on the main roads down to Sedlescombe , so we weren't sure if we would see them again.
Now began the steady climbing back to Hastings via Westfield and Three Oaks. We were pleased to finally regroup with the others who had waited for us near Pestalozzi .With all the climbing I felt comfortably warm despite the rain, and must admit that I rather enjoy riding in the wet as long as the roads are safe, to me it makes the ride seem more of an adventure!
At Westfield JV informed us that Rocks lane was closed due to flooding so we decided to do good old Stonestile instead. Unfortunately Malc had already gone ahead believing that we would be going back via Rocks lane. Myself , Ivan and Steve D went after him and caught him up near Three Oaks where a 'road closed' sign had been erected. This meant that we would have to head back via Ivyhouse lane instead. Despite riding down Ivy house lane many times I had never gone up it before. I found it to be a great ride back and one that I will choose more often. Steve D now broke away from us leaving just myself, Ivan and Malc to arrive at the Ridge.
The three of us headed straight down the old town hoping for a couple of beers at 'The standard' only to be disappointed when we realised it was shut. Never mind , we consoled ourselves with beer and Breakfast in Witherspoons instead!
We ignored our Garmins and headed directly for Appledore via Pett and Rye. So far the promised rain had not arrived, so to avoid overheating we had all taken our jackets off. Ivan and Malc seemed to be content to do much of the work on the front on the long ride out to Appledore which was pleasantly easy on what was a windless day.
Our luck with the weather continued all the way to Peasmarsh where there was a moment to take a photo, eat a snack bar and take a pee.
Just past Beckley we came across two large black Labradors running about all over the main road, we guess they must have escaped from the neighbouring house so Malc went over to let the owners know. While this was going on the rain started falling steadily so it was now time for us to pull on the waterproofs. We didn't mind too much as we were just grateful to have got two thirds into the ride without them. We did feel for Tom though in his sopping wet summer kit!
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| Our last few Moments Of Dry Weather! |
Now began the steady climbing back to Hastings via Westfield and Three Oaks. We were pleased to finally regroup with the others who had waited for us near Pestalozzi .With all the climbing I felt comfortably warm despite the rain, and must admit that I rather enjoy riding in the wet as long as the roads are safe, to me it makes the ride seem more of an adventure!
At Westfield JV informed us that Rocks lane was closed due to flooding so we decided to do good old Stonestile instead. Unfortunately Malc had already gone ahead believing that we would be going back via Rocks lane. Myself , Ivan and Steve D went after him and caught him up near Three Oaks where a 'road closed' sign had been erected. This meant that we would have to head back via Ivyhouse lane instead. Despite riding down Ivy house lane many times I had never gone up it before. I found it to be a great ride back and one that I will choose more often. Steve D now broke away from us leaving just myself, Ivan and Malc to arrive at the Ridge.
The three of us headed straight down the old town hoping for a couple of beers at 'The standard' only to be disappointed when we realised it was shut. Never mind , we consoled ourselves with beer and Breakfast in Witherspoons instead!
Saturday, 22 November 2014
Record turn out for the Di Paolo's Bacon Butty Run
I was expecting a low turn out, probably just me with youngsters Finlay and Fabien (now just turned 13) for the BBR. The BBC radar forecast had large light blue patches running across the SE suggesting light rain at times. It was right, a grey morning with rain in the air but not properly wet. As I rode over Galley Hill I thought it was Paul B coming back the other way in a BCF top and then saw Ivan also coming back from a ride but quickly doing a u-turn to ride with me to Di Paolo's for a mug of tea. Just as we were locking the bikes up at 9:30 Paul B rolled in having decided to also do a u-turn to join us for a coffee. We were not the first there as Angela had already ordered a full English for Fabien and Bob. Before long it was something of a club gathering with 15 of us in the cafe, including President Stuart.
Ten of us set out at 10:00 and within a few minutes picked up Clive to set the record of 11 riders on the Di Paolo BBR. We decided to vary the route, after Whydown turning right to go up to Ninfield rather than the usual left to Hooe. We regrouped at the garage before the Bulls Head at Boreham Street then went down the lane direct to Wartling and down the hill. It was a mistake to take the closed road past Chilley Farm. There was a series of large holes covered in metal plates and a lot of mud churned up by the lorries on the road. Finlay remained clean thanks to his full length full width mud guards but most of the others looked as though we had been riding a mucky spring classic. Trevor was making a guest appearance and missed the mud by turning back to ride up to Tenterden.
From Hankham we went to West Ham and then to the Eastbourne Crem roundabout where we turned left. Malcolm had remembered the left in to Netherfield Avenue to avoid the big roundabout. On the right off Netherfield Steve B came off on the concrete slabs then Finlay on the next left turn. Over all the years we regularly used this cut through to the famed Sandwich Inn cycling cafe I can never remember anyone coming off there before, was it diesel on the damp corners?
Nine off us stopped off in Pevensey Bakery and then we did the usual return run up to Pevensey and back along Normans Bay.
It was very much a classic sociable club run with me calling the route as we went along and identifying regrouping points so the stronger riders could go on ahead and stretch their legs. Malcolm D rode at the front calling the shots and I rode at the back with Matt and the young lads.
Paul B had seen three of the regulars on the 8:00 Pre BBR on their way over to Lewes for a change so can we break the record of 11 riders on the Di Paolo BBR in the coming weeks?
Chris Parker
Ten of us set out at 10:00 and within a few minutes picked up Clive to set the record of 11 riders on the Di Paolo BBR. We decided to vary the route, after Whydown turning right to go up to Ninfield rather than the usual left to Hooe. We regrouped at the garage before the Bulls Head at Boreham Street then went down the lane direct to Wartling and down the hill. It was a mistake to take the closed road past Chilley Farm. There was a series of large holes covered in metal plates and a lot of mud churned up by the lorries on the road. Finlay remained clean thanks to his full length full width mud guards but most of the others looked as though we had been riding a mucky spring classic. Trevor was making a guest appearance and missed the mud by turning back to ride up to Tenterden.
From Hankham we went to West Ham and then to the Eastbourne Crem roundabout where we turned left. Malcolm had remembered the left in to Netherfield Avenue to avoid the big roundabout. On the right off Netherfield Steve B came off on the concrete slabs then Finlay on the next left turn. Over all the years we regularly used this cut through to the famed Sandwich Inn cycling cafe I can never remember anyone coming off there before, was it diesel on the damp corners?
Nine off us stopped off in Pevensey Bakery and then we did the usual return run up to Pevensey and back along Normans Bay.
It was very much a classic sociable club run with me calling the route as we went along and identifying regrouping points so the stronger riders could go on ahead and stretch their legs. Malcolm D rode at the front calling the shots and I rode at the back with Matt and the young lads.
Paul B had seen three of the regulars on the 8:00 Pre BBR on their way over to Lewes for a change so can we break the record of 11 riders on the Di Paolo BBR in the coming weeks?
Chris Parker
21/11 Fri Night Ride- Minute men
I woke up from an unplanned nap just in time to start riding up to the lodge to meet the others for the Friday night ride. Still half asleep my legs felt so stiff and unresponsive that I briefly considered turning back. Meeting up with Malcolm, he felt much the same and we declared we would take it easy so as to give our tired muscles an easy workout. With only a couple of minutes to spare, Dan and Kirby (on only his second Fri night ride) just caught us before departure time, this gave a respectable tally of seven riders.
Myself and Malcolm set off one minute before the others down battery hill. This made the descent much less daunting for me especially as I was wearing my spare pair of specs with an out of date prescription which made everything slightly blurry.
Along the sea defences Diego and John S soon caught up with us but it wasn't until the nature reserve that we were all back together as Dan and Simon had to help shepherd Kirby down battery hill as his current front light was far too feeble for such a task.This gave me a chance to admire the bright lights in the distance coming towards us, they actually looked brighter than the headlights of cars going past them. This is very reassuring.
Before long we had begun the five mile drag up to Broadoak. Everyone stepped up a gear and rode up at their own pace. On arrival I thought I was last (my usual spot) but then we realised Kirby wasn't there and must be somewhere on the climb, left alone with his underpowered light. Feeling concerned, Dan and Simon headed back down the hill to shepherd Kirby up but as it turned out Kirby was only about a minute back. Giving Kirby a couple of minutes to get his breath back we all bombarded him with suggestions about which type and model of front light he needs to purchase. Moon compact light or Cree 2 battery pack lights seemed most popular.
Our descent down towards Wesfield seemed a bit more sedate than normal, probably because demon descender Marcus was off with 'man flu' .
Now all that was left was the tortuous ascent of Stonestile. Kirby has only been riding a couple of months and so is doing extremely well for such a novice and had successfully climbed Stonestile the week before. Unfortunately I wasn't there to photograph the moment for prosperity but at least I got a picture of his second successful ascent with kirby just having enough energy left for the traditional 'victory' pose.
Myself and Malcolm set off one minute before the others down battery hill. This made the descent much less daunting for me especially as I was wearing my spare pair of specs with an out of date prescription which made everything slightly blurry.
Along the sea defences Diego and John S soon caught up with us but it wasn't until the nature reserve that we were all back together as Dan and Simon had to help shepherd Kirby down battery hill as his current front light was far too feeble for such a task.This gave me a chance to admire the bright lights in the distance coming towards us, they actually looked brighter than the headlights of cars going past them. This is very reassuring.
Before long we had begun the five mile drag up to Broadoak. Everyone stepped up a gear and rode up at their own pace. On arrival I thought I was last (my usual spot) but then we realised Kirby wasn't there and must be somewhere on the climb, left alone with his underpowered light. Feeling concerned, Dan and Simon headed back down the hill to shepherd Kirby up but as it turned out Kirby was only about a minute back. Giving Kirby a couple of minutes to get his breath back we all bombarded him with suggestions about which type and model of front light he needs to purchase. Moon compact light or Cree 2 battery pack lights seemed most popular.
Our descent down towards Wesfield seemed a bit more sedate than normal, probably because demon descender Marcus was off with 'man flu' .
Now all that was left was the tortuous ascent of Stonestile. Kirby has only been riding a couple of months and so is doing extremely well for such a novice and had successfully climbed Stonestile the week before. Unfortunately I wasn't there to photograph the moment for prosperity but at least I got a picture of his second successful ascent with kirby just having enough energy left for the traditional 'victory' pose.
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| Kirby Conquors Stonestile, Again! |
Thursday, 20 November 2014
The East Wind Is An Ill Wind!
What boring weather - where's the rain? We're spoilt by continued dry Wednesday evenings. Ok, last night was cooler and there was a nagging easterly wind, but conditions for late November were again very good. Will America send us freezing snow by next week?
More than 30 other riders clearly thought it was a good night for a ride and we officially sent out three groups. The super-fasts were again shepherded through the traffic-strewn streets of Bexhill by the King of Speed and the Awesome Powerman - the Batman & Robin of the chain gang - Stuart and Barney. In their midst and making her chain gang debut was Ruth, who by all accounts rode strongly.
Various riders were sporting the latest in fashionable and functional winter night-riding gear. Peter Buss wore gloves that made his hands look like a mutant's, with two fingers to each instead of four. Stuart Hodd looked very dapper in the latest insulated fluorescent top and shoes. Plenty of us wore gillets, overshoes, longs and gloves. I didn't see anyone in just shorts apart from Tom Norris, but then he's from up north. Tom, sort your socks out!
I rode the outward chain with the fast group. It was not what I hoped for: too many solo rides, not enough calling and then other riders shooting off the front. The wind at our backs made the problem worse, raising the pace too high and too quickly. I got shouty and sweary in an effort to bring some shape to the ride, but then thought 'what am I doing, this is supposed to be fun!' So, sorry about the language chaps, I hope you'll forgive me.
A more disciplined group formed after the level crossing and some better group riding was on display for most of the way to the roundabout. And this week I didn't get dropped up Spooky Hill, landing a Strava PR in the process! I can thank the wind for that one...
I decided to push myself with the super-fasts on way back, but into the wind I got dropped on Spooky Hill; this time I'm not so thankful... I rode down the 'Spooky Slope', past the Star and over both bridges before seeing another rider. He glided past in silence, the only noise his tyres on tarmac, passing without a word like a dark-blue ghost. Was that you Ivan? The legs kept spinning at an impressive rate and the small red rear light grew fainter as he rolled onward.
I turned the corner at the level-crossing and struggled against the wind along Herbrand. It was straight into my face, pressing through my two jerseys and chilling the sweat on my chest. I pressed myself lower, hands on the drops, grimacing into that damn wind, spinning faster whenever the wind dropped a little, spinning slower when that same wind blew harder. Where was the next group? I wanted some shelter and a chance to recover. Hurry up!
The following group caught me just past the 30mph sign on Herbrand - the usual suspects of Simon, John V and Tom 'flat-back' Norris, plus another seven or so riders. A welcome sight! From there to the lights I enjoyed a good group ride, with good comms and discipline into that blasted wind. Yes, that's the better way, for me at any rate. Having ridden solo against the wind and then in a group, I know which is the faster and more enjoyable!
The group collected at the lights and we stayed chatting longer than usual. I needed the number of a heating engineer (wife's orders, thanks JV) and others were generally chatting about the ride, what ride they'll do on the weekend, or discussing the finer points of group riding. A shame we don't have a clubhouse or a cafe to meet at. Kerry's on the front does both coffee and alcohol, might be worth a look?
I enjoyed an après chain gang ride with Peter B, Tom N, Stuart B & Duncan. The latter two were gone by Cooden station and Peter, Tom and I had a pleasant ride back across marshes to Normans Bay. The wind was again at our backs and the pedalling was blissfully easy, just a minimal effort needed to maintain a good pace along the lane.
But the return was a grind: back across the marsh, past the Star, along Herbrand and Cooden Drive into a solid easterly wind. I got cross with it, pedalled harder. Bastard! My legs were burning and I was looking forward to turning at the lights and being blown home to food and warmth. That was enough for one night but I'm already looking forward to next week.
Neil Smith
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| Dave B Last Rode With us Over Ten Years Ago! |
Various riders were sporting the latest in fashionable and functional winter night-riding gear. Peter Buss wore gloves that made his hands look like a mutant's, with two fingers to each instead of four. Stuart Hodd looked very dapper in the latest insulated fluorescent top and shoes. Plenty of us wore gillets, overshoes, longs and gloves. I didn't see anyone in just shorts apart from Tom Norris, but then he's from up north. Tom, sort your socks out!
I rode the outward chain with the fast group. It was not what I hoped for: too many solo rides, not enough calling and then other riders shooting off the front. The wind at our backs made the problem worse, raising the pace too high and too quickly. I got shouty and sweary in an effort to bring some shape to the ride, but then thought 'what am I doing, this is supposed to be fun!' So, sorry about the language chaps, I hope you'll forgive me.
A more disciplined group formed after the level crossing and some better group riding was on display for most of the way to the roundabout. And this week I didn't get dropped up Spooky Hill, landing a Strava PR in the process! I can thank the wind for that one...
I decided to push myself with the super-fasts on way back, but into the wind I got dropped on Spooky Hill; this time I'm not so thankful... I rode down the 'Spooky Slope', past the Star and over both bridges before seeing another rider. He glided past in silence, the only noise his tyres on tarmac, passing without a word like a dark-blue ghost. Was that you Ivan? The legs kept spinning at an impressive rate and the small red rear light grew fainter as he rolled onward.
I turned the corner at the level-crossing and struggled against the wind along Herbrand. It was straight into my face, pressing through my two jerseys and chilling the sweat on my chest. I pressed myself lower, hands on the drops, grimacing into that damn wind, spinning faster whenever the wind dropped a little, spinning slower when that same wind blew harder. Where was the next group? I wanted some shelter and a chance to recover. Hurry up!
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| Eastbourne Rovers Ruth And Neil Bravely Joined Chain One! |
The following group caught me just past the 30mph sign on Herbrand - the usual suspects of Simon, John V and Tom 'flat-back' Norris, plus another seven or so riders. A welcome sight! From there to the lights I enjoyed a good group ride, with good comms and discipline into that blasted wind. Yes, that's the better way, for me at any rate. Having ridden solo against the wind and then in a group, I know which is the faster and more enjoyable!
The group collected at the lights and we stayed chatting longer than usual. I needed the number of a heating engineer (wife's orders, thanks JV) and others were generally chatting about the ride, what ride they'll do on the weekend, or discussing the finer points of group riding. A shame we don't have a clubhouse or a cafe to meet at. Kerry's on the front does both coffee and alcohol, might be worth a look?
I enjoyed an après chain gang ride with Peter B, Tom N, Stuart B & Duncan. The latter two were gone by Cooden station and Peter, Tom and I had a pleasant ride back across marshes to Normans Bay. The wind was again at our backs and the pedalling was blissfully easy, just a minimal effort needed to maintain a good pace along the lane.
But the return was a grind: back across the marsh, past the Star, along Herbrand and Cooden Drive into a solid easterly wind. I got cross with it, pedalled harder. Bastard! My legs were burning and I was looking forward to turning at the lights and being blown home to food and warmth. That was enough for one night but I'm already looking forward to next week.
Neil Smith
Tuesday, 18 November 2014
ESCA Reliability Trial- the 3.5 Hour Group
The 3.5 hour group
Myself and Derek arrived at the recommended car park in plenty of good time along with a number of other HSLCC members. Mother nature was being kind to us and the weather forecast promised us a dry ESCA.The temperature was in between cold and mild,was it tight wearing weather or not? looking around the carpark I could see it was about 4 to 1 in favour of tights but not being someone who feels the cold I decided to go for the bare legs option , only to change my mind after cycling to the HQ, so I had to cycle back to the van to put them on again. This caused general mirth back at HQ where members were laying bets before how long I would take them off again (most riders thought 15 minutes!).
All too soon the 3.5 hour group were lined up at the start, garmins at the ready! After waving goodbye to lee and JV (from the three hour group) we were off! Whenever we have done reliability trials before we always seem to come in too early so our pace was initially steady rather then fast as we stayed together in tight formation. The first fifteen miles were fairly flat but just before some proper climbing near Horsted Keynes, Gary suffered our one and only puncture. This gave Diego time to do some calculations and we were shocked to hear that at this pace we would fail by 20 minutes! Some of us wondered if this calculation was correct, so our pace remained steady as we climbed up towards Hindleap warren. From here there is a brilliant steady descent all the way down to Colemans hatch before the sudden dog's leg down to the bottom of the 'Wall' (Kidd's Hill). This ecstasy of thrilling downhill riding would now be paid for by the effort need to get up this famous climb (I am surprised Pete Tadros has never attempted to bag it).The strongest ones in our possy were Diego, kevin and Gary, and they were soon out of sight while the rest of us settled down into survival mode. Pete b managed to get around me early on but couldn’t drop me as I hung to his back wheel, then much to our surprise Derek made a great effort and managed to get round both of us and put a little distance between us for his best ever performance on the ‘Wall’.
With overheated legs at the top, it was finally time to strip off the tights. Looking around I could see the ground dropping away in all directions, now gravity was on my side! For the next half hour or so we seemed to be endlessly riding downhill ,enjoying smooth road surfaces with graceful sweeping bends. Everyone had suddenly become very quiet and focused, there was the unspoken wish to claw back the necessary time and for once become reliable! We were now only loosely riding as a group, if riders couldn’t hang on nobody would notice. First to drop off was Derek, being the lightest he was at a disadvantage with all the descending. Next to go was Chris Parker. There were now just five riders left : Gary, kevin and Diego were doing all the work at the front with myself and David struggling to keep up. Every time there was a bit of climbing the gap between them and us widened, only for it to close up again when the road pointed downhill . At the last checkpoint some riders from another club got in between the front group and us. This increased the gap to a distance that our by now painful legs couldn’t close. We both found the last five miles particularly tough as the terrain became more rolling . Relieved to reach the HQ, we quickly joined the registration queue with Kevin, Diego and gary just ahead of us. We were all confident we had made it . Sadly it was not to be; Chris P informed us we had missed it by a few minutes and some more calculations by Kevin confirmed this. Unreliable again! Never mind we all agreed this was a fabulously well organised event and a superb route, well done Sussex Nomads!
Steve C
Myself and Derek arrived at the recommended car park in plenty of good time along with a number of other HSLCC members. Mother nature was being kind to us and the weather forecast promised us a dry ESCA.The temperature was in between cold and mild,was it tight wearing weather or not? looking around the carpark I could see it was about 4 to 1 in favour of tights but not being someone who feels the cold I decided to go for the bare legs option , only to change my mind after cycling to the HQ, so I had to cycle back to the van to put them on again. This caused general mirth back at HQ where members were laying bets before how long I would take them off again (most riders thought 15 minutes!).
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| The 3.5 Hour Group Waiting To Be Released! |
With overheated legs at the top, it was finally time to strip off the tights. Looking around I could see the ground dropping away in all directions, now gravity was on my side! For the next half hour or so we seemed to be endlessly riding downhill ,enjoying smooth road surfaces with graceful sweeping bends. Everyone had suddenly become very quiet and focused, there was the unspoken wish to claw back the necessary time and for once become reliable! We were now only loosely riding as a group, if riders couldn’t hang on nobody would notice. First to drop off was Derek, being the lightest he was at a disadvantage with all the descending. Next to go was Chris Parker. There were now just five riders left : Gary, kevin and Diego were doing all the work at the front with myself and David struggling to keep up. Every time there was a bit of climbing the gap between them and us widened, only for it to close up again when the road pointed downhill . At the last checkpoint some riders from another club got in between the front group and us. This increased the gap to a distance that our by now painful legs couldn’t close. We both found the last five miles particularly tough as the terrain became more rolling . Relieved to reach the HQ, we quickly joined the registration queue with Kevin, Diego and gary just ahead of us. We were all confident we had made it . Sadly it was not to be; Chris P informed us we had missed it by a few minutes and some more calculations by Kevin confirmed this. Unreliable again! Never mind we all agreed this was a fabulously well organised event and a superb route, well done Sussex Nomads!
Steve C
ESCA Reliability Trial - The 3 hour group
It turned out there wasn't any coffee laid on, it wouldn't be the first time we'd be disappointed today.
So we bid farewell to the chaps on first groups and got ourselves ready.
What could possibly go wrong?
Anyway, we set off at 9.35 and set a fairly brisk pace.
Within 2 miles and the first junction there was a little confusion and a u-turn.
This was soon repeated at the next major junction as we went wrong again.
There was such confusion at one point that Nigel was convinced that we were doing the course backwards which would have been fun, especially doing 'The Wall' the easy way.
So we pressed on at a good pace along some really nice rolling roads and terrain averaging up in the 19's at this point, so well on schedule.
Unfortunately this wouldn't last as Malcolm then had our one and only puncture of the day.
We all spent a lot of the ride scaring Dan and Ben with horror stories of 'The Wall' but they coped brilliantly.
With 25 miles and time ticking we regained our breath and quickly pushed onwards.
At this point we were averaging 17.3mph, so a little down on our target even with 10 minute cushion.
We were flying along at this point with Malc, JV and Nigel and myself pulling us along, but we'd be frustrated further with more wrong turns and overshot junctions.
The terrain was rolling along with some steady climbs which wasn't helping our progress.
We checked in at the next control point with 12 to go and raced on.
At this point the ride then become more of a TT with the speeds up in the mid 20's much of the time.
After a couple more errors and the final control point it became clear that we would all have to morph into Bradley Wiggins clones to get back in time, but we pressed on never the less.
As we approached the finish line and a cheeky sprint finish (cheers tom) we made it back in 3:20, 20 minutes late and massively unreliable.
But it was a great effort from all the lads.
If anything was unreliable it was GPS and Garmins, not us.
Over and out
Lee S
Thursday, 13 November 2014
Big Group and Bright Lights
Well, we are lucky. It's mid November and we rode in a dry 12 degrees with little wind. The roads were largely dry and the 30 or so riders who came out last night were in good spirits. Perhaps also people are enjoying the chain gang more as we all get better at group riding?
As is now the norm when we have a large number of riders, we first sent out a 'super-fast' group of 8 or so riders, led by Stuart 'King of Speed' Hodd. A minute or two later, the merely 'fast' group set off with John 'Max Heartrate' Vidler. Steve 'Staggler-Meister' Curtis advertised for participants in a less fast group, bringing order to the 'Sons of Anarchy' at the back of the pack.
Have you seen that bit in 'Babe' when the pig sedately steers the sheep around the arena, bringing an eerie and stunned silence to the crowd? We had a similar moment last night. No sheep or pigs, but an almost supernaturally coordinated procession of riders whipped along Bexhill front in single file, accompanied by just the swish of their tyres. I counted 12 riders ahead of me and 4 or 5 behind. It must've been quite a sight. I was very impressed with the discipline of the group.
The pull up South Cliff broke the spell as the less strong fell off the pace. We settled into a good through and off along Cooden Drive and Herbrand, with 12 or so riders maintaining a rising but controlled pace. We caught a rider dropped from the super-fasts, or at least I think so! There are an increasing number of riders on the marshes of late, so he might've been a 'lone wolf', prowling the dark & twisty lanes, formerly the haunt of smugglers, pirates and the lawless vagabonds of Little Common... Or just some bloke out for an evening ride, who knows?
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| Ivan At The 'Standard ' before the First Of His Five Pints! |
The pace continued to rise as John V doled out the punishment and the group dwindled to 8, then 7, 6, 5 riders. We hit the slopes of Spooky Mountain and again my legs failed me. I watched the remaining 4 riders speed up the slope and resigned myself to a solo effort across the Pevensey Levels. A couple of riders caught me up and we made uneasy joint progress to the roundabout, less willing or able to rotate the lead.
After a longish wait, we had reassembled the group and agreed to let the faster riders set out first, not as a separate group but to reduce the new for overtaking on the narrow lanes. I decided to wait a bit but an encouraging slap on the shoulder with a call of 'come on' from the King of Speed changed my mind. But I wasn't really ready, fumbling for pedals and struggling to get around other riders. I set off behind the faster riders but ahead of the others. I couldn't bridge the gap to Stuart and company, so I pressed on as well as I could and tagged onto the group behind as it caught me near the western slopes of Spooky Mountain.
Familiar bikes and kit flitted in and out of view as the group rode a good through and off all the way back to the lights, thinning in number here and there as slopes, junctions and corners slowed some riders. All in all, a very satisfying ride!
There has been a definite improvement in group riding, with better easing off when a rider takes the front. People are more willing to be dropped and then join a following group, doing their turn at the front and riding predictably.
It's good stuff folks and could be better still with more communication. Don't be shy! Tell the rider taking the front when he's clear to move to the left; call 'last man' as you join the end of the group coming through; tell each other what you're doing - it all helps produce a smooth, safe and quicker ride.
I enjoyed a pleasant après-chaingang ride back across the marshes to Normans Bay, with Peter, Kevin and Stuart B. Peter and Kevin have both bought tarmac-melting front lights, in fact Kevin has two! The brightness is amazing and they seem robust; Kevin has had one of his for a year now. The separate battery pack is detachable and rechargeable and the price is less than £20 on eBay. Search for Cree bicycle lights.
Safe riding, Neil
PS- Some regular post chain-gang pub regulars decided to try the 'standard' instead of the 'Anchor'
Unfortunately it was open mike evening, so there was lots of loud music which may not have been to everyone's taste as it was difficult to hold a conversation. Ivan loved it though and ended up drinking five pints of what he said was the best Guinness in the town!
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