Kew Gardens

 

Last weekend I visited Kew Gardens with my sister. It was a very cold day, the wind especially.

But it didn't spoil the day, it just meant we didn't stop moving. There are plenty of benches we could have sat on and admired the view. A packed lunch and warmer weather would have allowed us to cover more ground because we wouldn't have felt the need for a warming drink.

We started at Victoria Gate; just a short walk from Kew Gardens tube station. Meeting at London Bridge and then crossing the river to Embankment station to get onto the District line seemed the most hassle free way to get there. It was the same day as the London Marathon, but everyone was going to Greenwich so it didn't affect us. On the way home everywhere was a little busier than a normal Sunday, but again no problems.

My first comment is about the cost. For two adults at the weekend or Bank Holidays it's £49. Which I think is a lot. 

The Japanese Pagoda is another £4.50, and that's not good value.

I expected red wood, not ordinary brick.

The guides were dressed up, I'm guessing it was appropriate to the period when it was built. But I don't think it added anything to the experience. The views were good from the top.

The spiral staircase could be a tough ask for the unfit, and at busier times be very congested. I'd save your money though and not bother.

Nearby is the Japanese area.

A nice place to sit I thought, but you aren't allowed to walk on the gravel.

There is a treetop walkway. Another toughish climb, but there is a lift. And it's well worth it.

 

I tried to smile in a relaxed manor; not sure I pulled it off though.

 

If it gets a bit too chilly, then the greenhouses are a good place to go. Even the unheated ones are out of the wind.

 

The Princess of Wales Conservatory with its cacti is obviously nice and warm.

Finally the food. There are a few places to eat. I thought they are reasonable value, considering the location. Outside the station were many independent places that are a little cheaper.

Let's talk cycling apparel

It's winter so here is another post about what I wear on the bike. The first time was Sept 2020. Link. I had just started my journey into cycling specific clothing. And I was pretty unimpressed, especially with the items bought to keep me warm and dry. Priory to this I wore shorts and a t-shirt, or jogging bottoms and a normal jacket when the sun wasn't out. I got sweaty in the heat; cold and wet for the other 50 weeks of the year. And at times I must have looked very scruffy. It's debatable I look better in my current wardrobe, but at least it's functionable.

In the intervening three years I've bought more clothing. My opinion hasn't changed much. One example was a very expensive rain jacket bought during an end of production sale. It doesn't keep me protected from the rain and I get soaked in sweat. Both promises made by the manufacturer.

I've added to my glove collection too. An expensive pair let in water and allowed windchill. A pair from Stolen Goat showed great promise. But their longevity was short. They now leak and my hands freeze.

The latest acquisition is from Galibier. They are a little more bulky when compared to the Stolen Goats, but not overly so. The digits, especially the thumb could be longer. I guess I could have gone up a size, but then the hand part would have been too big. I have mostly mitigated this by adjusting the levers to reduce their reach. Importantly they work. I'll have to wait to test their durability. 

I also bought a jacket from them. And would you believe it; I didn't get soaked in sweat. I wasn't completely moist free, it doesn't employ magic in the manufacturing process. But it's noticeably better than anything I've owned before. Admittedly my longest ride so far is just over 20 miles. I bought a size small, and the fit is just right. Not so tight I can't wear layers underneath, not so loose it flaps about in the wind. It's also bright blue. Most others are only available in black.

I've started running to bring some variety. But I don't have any specific clothing. So I wore a long sleeved base layer, a short sleeved cycling jersey and the jacket. It drizzled for most of the route and I was a little overdressed. It didn't let in any rain, and allowed most of the sweat to escape. 

The little side pocket is a genius idea.

In summary: I haven't worn them in very heavy rain, but they do keep me just the right amount of warm.

New gear tested

First rides with my new bikepacking gear. It was time to test the Restrap saddle bag. 

Previous post here. Would it swing around, or fall off? I say fall off because the front straps were a little short for the aero seat post on my Le Vita road bike.

I didn't want to go too far so I rode 22 miles of a mixed surface route that included some bumpy off road sections.

the sunlight from a different angle and no tree cover makes this pic look much colder

        

 

There are plenty of reviews for it, so I didn't expect any problems. I only filled it to about three quarters; and it didn't move about when I stood up on the pedals for the hills. The only concern was my rear light; the loop is too wide. When I stopped to take the second picture it was just about to fall off. I moved it to the drybag strap which appears to be a better fit in my case.

Today it was the road bike, this time to meet Matt in Westerham. All of the other bikes had minimal luggage. When the mudguards are left behind in the garage, it'll give a bit more room above the wheel.

It looks a bit like a sports car with a roof box. I think it's more "sporty" than a rack and bag combo though.

Nothing worked loose, in fact I didn't really notice it. 

Roll on the summer adventures.

New bike, first impressions.

I picked up my new bike during a really cold period in Dec. Way too icy to risk riding. Link to that post. So I had to walk past it to the turbo trainer for a whole week. Each time wondering if the weather would improve by the weekend.

The sparkly iridescent midnight holographic colour scheme as it's called looks good. It should be even better in full sunlight. It got lots of complements from the club. Depending on the angle of light you can see purple, green and blue; maybe more will show themselves as the days get brighter.

From the first few yards it felt efficient; that's the best word for it. The bike reacts to every input much more keenly. It accelerates and climbs more easily; cornering feels more stable. 

It's lighter so that will account for some of the improvement, the frame is stiffer and it's more aerodynamic. The geometry is more race focused, which gives the cornering the extra sharpness. But it's not too extreme, even quite strong sidewinds don't throw it off line. I can feel road imperfections more acutely, not so much I dread riding it.

The roads were wet, with some big puddles; at one point the road was flooded to a depth of around a foot. Having disc brakes really paid dividends over the rim brakes of my previous road bike.

I know it's only the first sixty miles; but it's already delivered what I'd hoped it would. I can't wait to attack the time trials next year, and go touring on it. 

It's really lifted my spirits, and restored my mojo.

New wheels

 

Next weekend will be the first time ride on my new wheels. I bought them during the winter; I had planned to have them setup on the bike in April, when the weather usually starts to improve. The intention was to compete in some TT races. That's not going to happen this year, or at least it's unlikely. Regaining lost strength and fitness is going to take me a long time. I may change my mind after I get back from Cornwall depending how tough I found it. Sponsorship link.

They are made from carbon fibre, supplied by Kinetic One: Link to the builder. It's another upgrade to what was a fairly low spec bike in 2012. I bought it second hand a few years ago, from Ross Cycles. Looking back, maybe I should have bought a better bike instead. But I wasn't as committed to road riding at the time. The frame fits me well, but the rest was poor, especially the brakes. It's much improved and the wheels are the icing on the cake.

How do I feel about them?

They look good. The previous wheels had a deeper profile than the originals. These are a step further. 

original wheels

 

Vision 35mm wheels

kinetics one wheels

They are more aerodynamic. No stats to show how much better, but it's proven they will reduce drag and help me maintain speed. One potential downside is that they can be affected by side winds more than shallower wheels. I did talk to Andy the owner of the company and builder of the wheels. He said I shouldn't notice it too much because they are designed to minimise this. I'm a light rider so I hope he's right. My weight means going deeper is not a good idea. If you want a little techy info click here.

They are lighter. This will help climbing and acceleration. My bike is on the heavy end of the scale for a road bike. The Vision wheels saved a little, these have reduced it again. Any more upgrades would definitely be in the diminishing returns category. The only solution may be a new frame. Maybe I'll look at this option; transferring everything from my present bike.

The real test will be as I get stronger; I can then compare them more fairly to my pre crash rides. 

Being able to talk to the wheel builder is a big advantage. I initially sent an info request some months before I was considering a purchase. Andy called a few hours later. I had a few concerns: one was braking with carbon wheels. They tend to be worse than alloy in the wet. He did say I would notice a difference, but it's not as bad an issue as it once was. We talked for a long time about what I should expect, and cycling in general. This wouldn't happen with one of the big manufacturers. At best I'd be talking to a customer services person, and not the builder. We spoke again when I'd decided to buy the wheels. It helped me to be confident I was making the right decision.

A big test will be Cornwall; 500 miles over six days. Any advantage I can get will be welcome.

Running book review

I've been reading In it for the Long Run, by Damian Hall. Available here.

I was interested because it's more about why he completes in endurance events, like most of the books I've been reading. And less about how; the technical stuff is interesting and useful, but not always as riveting. 

Obviously what I do is several leagues below Damian's achievements. I haven't and will not be representing my country. But the thoughts that drive me to new challenges are the same. And better explains my future goals.

We do have a tenuous link; at school I ran cross country whenever I could. My reasons differed though. I didn't particularly like running, but I had a greater dislike for team sports. I was good at neither.

Damian talks about his obsession, or addiction to running. Focussing on it, at times, to the detriment of other commitments. To be as successful as he is, you need to be. I can be as focused and I'm not always comfortable with being that way.

He touches on weight issues, a coach he had early in his career insisted he keep shedding the kilos. It's certainly on my mind at times. Being light means fast up hills, but not eating enough also means a lack of energy, and endurance. And longer term health implications. I have it under control now, but only because I don't want to be slowed for any reason. I follow cycling and it's an issue that is just starting to be talked about.

I've previously written about food, or fueling whilst riding. I can now add another item to the list; custard. I haven't tried it; let me know if you do. Obviously I'll make a vegan version.

Everyone has heard of running marathons, even doing them many days in a row. Damian would run one before breakfast. Or as a commute to work. I have no comprehension how that must feel. The distances ridden and have planned elicit surprise and disbelief in family and friends. It's the same reaction Damian's book produces in me.

What marks it out as a great book is the humour and "matter of factness"; if that makes sense. The achievements attained and challenges overcome are incredible, but there is no boasting. Just insight into what drives him, and how he prepares.

Unfortunately it was such a good read, I finished it quickly. I took every opportunity to discover what he did next; to learn more.

If, like me, you think that running 26 miles is a long way; then you have to read this book. The human body is capable of covering amazing distances. What's even more incredible is that these are off road miles, many in the dark, and the middle of nowhere.

How many calories will I need?

 

Thinking about how much food I'll need for the solstice ride, (sponsorship link). Most estimates say up to 500 an hour. So the maths is 16 multiplied by 500, equals 8000. It seems a bit high; I don't think I can eat that much. 

Looking at the profile above - read left to right - the toughest parts are in the last third; although it's never particularly flat. I'll be on my own so no resting in someone else's slipstream. So maybe the high requirement is right.

In order to save time I intend to minimise stopping for food. The three bags I'll have on the bike will contain tools and spare inner tubes, extra gloves, a rain jacket and power packs to charge various electronics as well as food. I won't need more clothing, that will have been sent ahead of me for my stay in Cornwall and the return journey.

The 8000 calories will have to come from a variety of sources to keep it interesting. After around seven hours I stop wanting to eat. The distance is as much a mental challenge as it is physical.

 

I have been testing a few options: energy and protien bars, snacks and sandwiches. I need to have food that won't upset my stomach, and not contain too much fibre. I now realise it might be tough to achieve.

Here is my list:

Outdoor Provisions bars, each around 159 calories. They are my favourite, after trying many different suppliers. I have taken a subscription, so that should say a lot. I can eat up to seven one after the other. They are the easiest to open on the move too. I guess I could take a break from them at five and return later in the day.

Tribe protein bars, each around 230 calories. Very sweet, so maybe three will be enough. I do like their protein shakes post ride. The best I've tried. I subscribe to these as well. As with OP bars, I get a discount. It means I have the shakes, and the bars for cafe stops that don't provide a vegan option.

Trek protein bars, again around 230 each and also sweet.

Fig rolls, a whole pack is 590.

Pringles are heavy hitters at 1064 per pack. And you know how morish they are.

A pack of caramel rice cakes are 612.

Soreen lunch box snacks come in bags of five, each around 100 calories. My favourites are the apple.

Finally my lunch most days; peanut butter sandwiches. About 250 each.

So how does that add up?

Outdoor Provisions    x10 1590

Tribe                           x3    690

Trek                            x3    690

Fig Rolls                            560

Pringles                            1064

Rice Cakes                         612

Soreen bars                        500 

Sandwich                   x2    500 

 

Total                                 6206

I'll have a big breakfast, but there is a limit to what I can eat in one sitting.

 

To be honest, I'm not sure how I'll eat enough. On top of this figure there is another 2000 or so calories that the body needs regardles of exercise. 

 

Fizzy and energy drinks could be helpful, but I don't much like them. The same goes for energy gels; my tolerance is very low.

How do long distance athletes do it? Especially if they don't have a support team.

 

Is it the right balance?

Should it be less snacks and more real food? 

Keeping hydrated shouldn't be a problem, water is quick and easy to purchase. I can add energy and hydration tablets. If only there were more drinking taps I wouldn't have to buy bottled water. I've read about a scheme to provide free tops ups, the info is out of date though. It says Whitebread have signed up, so potentially 3,000 Costa stores, Premier Inn hotels and restaurants might be a good source. It is said churches are worth looking out for. But then their tapes are for watering purposes; does it mean it's safe to drink?

Mudguards

 

I've had them on the mountain bike, although none are attached at the moment. They broke and were not replaced. When I did have them their placement was high above the tyres, keeping my bum dryish, but not much else. Thinking about it now I could have saved money; I just needed two cheap solutions. An ass saver as they are called; clips under the saddle, sticking out about six inches. Plus a flexible guard between the fork brace and the crown. My saddle bag replaces the ass saver, I could cut up an innertube for the front.

It's a first for the road bike. These are much closer to the tyre, and should keep me dryer by cutting the amount of water hitting my shoes and back. They also reduce the spray thrown up behind me at following riders.

I only had time to fit the rear one before the club ride last weekend. They do increase aerodynamic drag, I'm not sure by how much. The past few weeks have seen many injuries, you can read previous posts about them. For this reason I intended to join the T3 group, at the last minute I changed my mind and chose T4. 

Let me explain. The rides are graded to allow for different fitness levels, the higher the number the stronger you need to be. It usually means a longer distance at a higher pace, maybe no cafe stop for 4 and above. I have been moving between the two groups for a while, depending on which was running and how I felt.

I'm not sure if the extra resistance was the problem or the battering my legs have received lately. But after about forty miles I was being dropped on some climbs, something that rarely happens. No-one is left behind, so I was able to catch up as they slowed at the top. I was wearing thicker gloves that made opening food on the move more difficult. I normally eat every hour, but not this time. I was eating if we stopped to discuss the route. Energy levels were low when I asked about a cafe break. Eventually we found a burger and chips type place. The coffee was good and supper hot. It meant that we had to drink slowly. This allowed me to scoff all the food I had left in my bag. I felt much better for the last twenty or so miles.

I fitted the front section during the week, and rode with the T3's on Saturday. I felt much better, it doesn't appear that I have added too much extra drag to the bike. 

A change of routine on Sunday, Matt's bike is with Ross Cycles, I went for a ride with my club again. A loop out around Brands Hatch. Pretty windy, but not cold; the sun even made an appearance.

What do I think of the mudguards?

They were fiddly to fit, initially either too close and rubbing, or too far away from the wheel and flapping about.

Longer versions that further reduce spray are available but wouldn't fit under the brake calipers.

I'll see how they stand up to being used, and the level of protection provided.

And of course there is the question of wind resistance.

They cause the wheels to catch side winds more. So on Sunday it was a little trickier on the more exposed lanes.

A fairly mundane post this week; the change to more wet and generally grey weather always affects my mood. 

I still want to ride my bike, but everything needs a little more prep. Extra layers, can mean being sweaty, not enough and I'm cold. Drying the cloths in time for the next outing can be a problem. And then there are the bikes. I'm determined to look after them better, I use to just leave them in the garage when I got home. That was okay when I only did 30 to 40 miles a week. My average is now 150 which means they are wearing out parts much quicker. At the very least I now dry the chain before leaving them. At the weekends a bit of bike TLC is needed, even a clean. I could spend more time on the trainer, out of the weather, but it is very boring. Maybe I'll take the iPad out there and watch youtube.

Clipped in - clip-less pedals

Over the weekend I tried clipless pedals. I know I may have said it would never happen, but I wanted to see if they could make my riding more efficient.

I had shoes with the holes to attach cleats, the part that clicks onto the pedal. I bought the pedals from ebay, it's much cheaper than new shoes and pedals. The type I bought are more usually seen on mountain bikes, but if I am comfortable with them the road bike will get a pair. The reason I bought the shoes last year was the stiffer soles and you can walk normally in them, unlike their road specific cousins. 

I may need to explain to non cyclists, clipless means you are attached to the pedals, but not by toe clips. If you aren't a rider, don't worry if that doesn't make sense. It's just the way it is.

Being attached to the pedals means your foot can't move around, it can't slip off and you can apply force for more of the rotation. I'll need to adapt my technique to see the benefits.

The downside is that you have to remember to unclip when you stop though, or crash to the floor. 

Some initial thoughts after  about 70 miles:

I practiced clipping and unclipping in the garage. I had to tighten the tension screws that determine how firm they grip the cleats. I had them turned right down, but I couldn't tell if I was fully locked in and the slightest movement released my feet. I tightened them to about mid way. Initially all went well.

I had to plan the stops earlier than before and anticipate if I might need to put a foot down.

I had more of an issue attaching myself as I moved off. Finding the cleat and remembering it's easier with my foot at the bottom of the rotation.

I must have been riding with my toes pointing outwards on the flats, now it feels like my feet are being twisted inward, when they are in fact straight.

I'm not sure how much difference they have made; I can feel more power transfer when I climb, especially standing. More muscles are in use, I had a little ache from some I didn't know I had. Accelerating feels a bit quicker. 

When I change down for a hill I don't get a "floaty" feeling as the cadence increases.

On Saturday I went over to visit my sister and mum, nearly thirty-three miles, with an average speed of 13mph; pretty good for the mountain bike. It bodes well for the hill climb next weekend on the road bike. 

There were plenty of times I needed stop, and unclip, only a few caused a mild panic; I was trying to disengage by pulling up and twisting. Just twisting was best, and almost the default by the time I got home.

Then on Sunday just as I was gaining full confidence, I failed to unclip outside my garage.

At least there was no audience; other people's experiences' included a bemused or shocked group of people on hand to see their fall.

My biggest challenge.

Last month I rode over 100 miles for charity. What to do next? I had been thinking about riding to Cornwall for some time. But kept it to myself, maybe not sure I could do it. A visit to see my sister started the planning again.

The route is two hundred and fifty miles. To come home I can get a train to Clapham Junction and cycle the last bit.

I'll have around seventeen hours of daylight to do it.

At the moment, my thinking is:

Ride from around four o'clock on the 21st June, stopping every four hours for proper food and drink. In between use energy gels and bars.

Arrive at my sisters around nine thirty.

Rest for a couple of days and leave from Bodmin on the Friday.

Sounds simple. ;-)

I'll have to be able to carry more food with me, and warm/waterproof clothing. I now have a handlebar bag and will need to investigate a bigger saddle bag. And be able to charge the sat nav, and phone. Both of which will be needed, but unlikely to last the distance. I have a power block, it will have to fit in one of the new bags.

I don't think it's too ambitious, I have done a few rides of over hundred miles, the longest being hundred and sixty two.

The first part of the puzzle shown above; the handlebar bag. Considering changing the bar tape to red; what do you think? I can pack a lightweight rain coat, and food, with the net pockets on the front adding to the capacity and ease of access on the move. I think it looks great, just the right size. And doesn't interfere with or alter the steering very much. Saddle bag to follow later in the year.

The next part will be what to wear; I got very uncomfortable after about a hundred and twenty miles, see the hundred and sixty two link above. Maybe expensive is better, I'll hopefully find out before June. I bought an expensive pair of padded shorts. They will be tested in the coming months.

Being vegan, food maybe a problem, most cakes, sandwiches and snacks sold in cafes and shops contain eggs and dairy. I have continued to try different options since this post. I do think they are expensive, so will be looking for alternatives.  I'll pack some figs and dates, for a sugary pick-me-up.

Lastly I need to maintain or improve my fitness. I'm not sure how to improve it though. I ride everyday; big miles on Saturday with Oxted CC, then on Sunday a ride of around twenty miles to meet Matt in Westerham. Maybe I can change the intensity. At least one day a week on the trainer; I definitely work harder in that hour than during the after work rides.

My bike should be fine, it'll be serviced in preparation. Although there is always the temptation to upgrade bits of it. Lighter is faster; and I could look at the comfort, make some adjustments. To be honest it's a much better bike than when I bought it. It's been gradually upgraded. With new wheels being the last improvement.

Cornwall photowalks

My wife and I are just back from seeing my sister in Cornwall. For the second time we stayed at Treworgans Farm, Ladock. It's adapted for Marcia's needs and isn't very far from Sheila's house so it's ideal. The last time was in 2019.

I took it easy on Sunday, and after breakfast I went for a walk. Had to wait for the rain to stop, and not be out too long. It always looked like the torrential downpours would soon return.

At a walking pace you notice so much more, the picture above was the cottage from the twisty lane towards Probus. The one below was taken as I left the farm at the beginning of the walk.

The rest are what drew my attention.

snake head

The village of Probus has a telephone box that hasn't been converted for another use. Looking a bit old, run down and neglected. I know how it feels. ;-)

Side note, everyone I walked passed every time I went shopping in Probus said hello. How nice is that!?

Walk number two, I headed for Ladock. The path is a lot more enclosed, less expansive views. It dawned on me how many wind turbines pepper the landscape, are they too much of a blight? We all want power, with less emissions, so they will likely increase in number.  I searched for a vista without them. We look out across hedgerows, dry stone walls, and a patchwork of cultivated fields, mankind has shaped the landscape for a long time, and we have gotten use to it.

Kept an eye out for smaller details.

Another short walk across the fields at the back of the farm house had plenty of wide views. 

And another wind turbine.

The weather was changeable but we got out on Thursday to Pencarrow House and Gardens, meeting Sheila for something to eat in the cafe. We went for a walk around the grounds, heading for the hill fort. I'd advise you don't bother; we walked through it without realising. It was a long ascent too. And the view spot; wasn't. The sunken garden is accessed by steps, so it was another place to bypass for Marcia. I took some pictures, Marcia did have Sheila to talk to while I did. If we hadn't wasted time with the invisible iron age encampment we could have seen the lake on the other side of the estate. Most important we all had a long chat in the sun, before heading home on Saturday.

A last few words about the cafe; tasty food, served by very friendly people. It is expensive though, and whilst the cutlery was disposable, it could be composted. It arrived at our table in polystyrene containers; not environmentally friendly.

There weren't any sheep in the field next to our cottage this year, just an elusive pheasant. It took a few days to sneak up on him.

Cycling library

I haven't had to dedicate a whole room to my collection just yet. The total stands at five. They are about people riding long distance. The common themes are: how they coped, why they did it, and what they got out of it.

The first book, North to Alaska, written by Trevor Lund. I read it in March last year. I think I'll read it again.

It hooked me straight away. The pace, level of detail and writing style is just about right for me. Each day as I got comfy to read it I found myself wanting to complete one more page before having to stop.

He started in the cold, went through everything nature could throw at him, and ended in the cold. Starting with a companion, who wasn't as sure about the journey as Trevor. These rides seems to need a determination that is often not contagious amongst family and friends.

The many constants across these books that I think kept me reading were how they were able to dig a little deeper when faced with adversity, and the kindness of strangers; forgive the cliche. It is encouraging to read we are capable of more than we know, and the world isn't as hostile a place as we are lead to believe.

Quondam Travels in a Once World by John Devoy. About an epic ride he did in 1985. It covers the story of the Cairo to Nairobi part of his journey from above the arctic circle to Cape Town in South Africa. It really opens up the mental as well as the physical challenge. A great twist is that he also mentions how the areas have changed during the intervening years. Many of the countries went on to be blighted by civil wars.  Buy direct from John.

Where There's a Will by Emily Chappell. First thing to note; I bought it direct from Emily. Very fast delivery, and it's signed. Buy direct from Emily. It's another page turner about her participation in the transcontinental race, and much more. After days or weeks focused on one goal it would be a jolt to not have that single target in front of you. I've never been in a race, but have had longer, multiple day challenges. It took a couple of days to get use to a normal daily routine.

Mike Carter's One Man and His Bike. I can understand his desire to just keep cycling. I have on occasion turned away from home to ride a little further. Never to circumnavigate the British Isles though. He makes connections with many people as he travels. It's funny and educational; giving a little info about some of the places he pedals through. You can follow the path of his bike around the pages of the book. It took me until chapter eight to see it.

Endless Perfect Circles by Ian Walker. Ian became a record breaking ultra long distance rider in his forties. I can sympathise with Tom about sport at school. Although it wasn't the quality of the teachers as much as I have never been good at team sports. I looked forward to the cross country run during the winter. I wasn't very fast but at least it meant I could avoid demonstrating my lack of sporting prowess. I'd jog out of the grounds, up the road, across some fields and be back in time to shower before everyone else. The rest of the year was being picked last for teams, and trying to avoid responsibility for attack or defence.

Ian wrote about finding a competitiveness that he didn't know he had, of realising that racing was a task that had an ending.

It's the reason I started to use Strava, not to compare myself with others or to compete with anyone. I use it to set tasks to complete each month.

I haven't cycled any distances to rival these epic rides, or had to sleep rough; but it does resonate with me. A few years ago two friends and I rode to Paris - unsupported - we carried all we needed on the bikes. 

Fully loaded, on the way to Paris

 

The South Downs Way was the following year: two days of mostly off road. I think it was a greater challenge than Paris. We were often reduced to pushing our laden bikes, the mud was so think the wheels became choked with it.

South Downs Way, deep mud.

 

I felt a little guilt as I read these books, sat on my couch, hot drink at hand. If I got hungry it was just a few steps to the kitchen. 

I recommend all of them; insightful, helpful, entertaining, and thought provoking. I eagerly turned the pages, wanting to know what happened next. Tempered by the realisation that the quicker I read, the sooner I would finish. 

What other books should I buy now?