Fred Whitton Reccy
Wow.... First time cycling in the Lakes and boy oh boy... do they know how to make steep hills there.
The ride started at Coniston then Hawkshead, Kirkstone, Honister, Newlands, and finished (for me) after Winlatter. The rest of the group carried on to Cold fell, hardknott, Wrynose to arrive back at base in Coniston.
The group: Stu, Allan, Glenn, Dave, Richard and me
Highlights: The scenery, Patient motorists, The hills, the weather (warm, sunny, no wind), the streams, the lakes, Allan's banana cake portions, the company, Stu's patience to pick me up in Buttermere after finishing the ride. Privileged to ride with people who know the lake district inside out and very experienced riding up and down the many Lake district passes. Meeting Stu's family.
Lows: The portion on the A66 going into Keswick, Dave's two punctures because of the bike shops lame fitting of rim take on the wheels, bike not adequate for climbing >20% ascents, having to abandon 3/4 of the way. The BONK. dehydration. being away from home. 25% downhills are freaking scary!!!
Lessons learned: I need a new bike (lighter and with more appropriate gearing)... I need a better pair of legs... I have to force myself to eat and drink constantly...
