Way Of The Roses (Summer 2012, 170 Miles, Road Bikes)

Well stuck in the office watching the grey sky and listening to the wind and rain batter the building, I can’t help but let my mind wander to thoughts of sunnier days in the saddle.

I really fancy a go at the Way of the Roses route which runs the 170 miles between Morecombe and Bridlington along traffic-free paths, on-road cycle lanes, country lanes and quieter roads.

With two overnight stays in YHA’s in Malham and York the trip would be broken into sections of 42, 67 and 61 miles with the worst climbing being on the first day and the first 10 miles of the 2nd.

Now I know people have other plans for far more strenuous rides, triathlons, etc. but if we could fit this in sometime in June-September, Friday to Sunday I think it would be a good opportunity to explore this recently opened ride.  If we can get say 6-10 people together, share the transport costs, etc. then why the hell not.

As before we would hope to raise money for a suitable charity.

Interested, please add your comments below, many thanks..

Capheaton Cafe (25/09/2012, 70.02 Miles)

An absolutely Great run out to the 'stuck in time' cafe at Capheaton. Punctures all round and they finally got the better of Lee Woolston who to his credit organized a great run out for a mixed team with regard to ages, experience and bikes.  But this is what cycling is really about, getting to different places with different people.  Enjoying yourself, perhaps without releasing that you are actualy improving your fitness and enjoying life.

Once we were clear of our meet up points at Newcastle, Throckly and Ponteland, the glorious Northumberland countryside stretched before us on a surprisingly warm and calm day for late September. We cruised along to Capheaton at a good pace and arrived at a café which upon arrival showed just how popular cycling is becoming.  If you have never been to the café (or in my case even heard of the village!) its just a small village hall a million miles away from repetitive high coffe house chains.   In fact not a latte in sight!  Excellent choice of cakes and scones saw us all indulge to replenish the energy reserves.  After we left we got split into two groups as the punctures had pushed some of very close to our deadlines for getting home.  My group of five riders had a good run back to the Quayside for a drink at the Pitcher and Piano before going our separate ways.

Always good to meet new cycling contacts and an enjoyable ride which I will be doing again, if only for the great cakes!

If you are interested in the route it can be found by clicking here.

Allenheads Adventure

Newcastle > Hexham > Allenheads

7:30, Sunday 9th October

Its 81 miles, some big climbs and its very likely going to be cold and wet.  Adrian planned this route some time ago but various issues have prevented us riding it this year and as Autumn is well and truly upon us the window of opportunity is ever closing.  So if you have a hybrid or a road bike you are more than welcome to come along and get out for one last foray.  There will not be any support, feeding stations, t-shirts or medals its man against the elements.  For the record I do plan to crack first.

We will meet at 7:30am on Newcastle Quayside and ride along the Tyne valley to Hexham before the climb to Allenheads and on to Rookhope.  We can then look forward to a rest at Park Head Café for some much needed sustenance.  Once warmed through and fed we can look forward to a glorious 25 mile descent back to the Quayside