Nick went on this ride, led by Milton (our Secretary), and writes:
Six cyclists converged at the meeting point, Moulton Co-op, having all received their first soaking of the day (second if they had taken a shower before leaving home). Not the greatest of starts to a leisure ride but everyone was in good spirits and looking forward to the “lumps” (as Milton described them) that lay ahead. Wind was another feature of this ride, the meteorological kind, that is. Scotland had taken a huge battering overnight. The Midlands faired better but it nevertheless proved challenging when passing holes in the hedge on the first section to Holcot. It was not long before we took a break, about three quarters of a mile actually, when Giles suffered a flat rear [tyre] which necessitated a delay to the half of the group who stayed to help. Quickly fixed and that ever present lesson “cheap tyre levers are a worthless investment” learned, we shot off in pursuit of our leader and the two Brians, one of whom was making his CTC ride debut. Hope we see you again soon, Brian!
Turning west at Holcot it became apparent that the wind really was the dominant factor in the day’s weather. Having to pedal downhill always feels so wrong but today was necessary in order to maintain sufficient forward motion to stay upright. The climb up to Brixworth proved a real leg tester. In the village we rejoined Milton who had kindly waited, and coincidently found the time to down a coffee and a sausage roll. Chapeau!
Across to Spratton and then Teeton where we rejoined the two Brians. The weather was slowly becoming brighter with spells of sunshine and the occasional rainbow. Turning south at Teeton the going whilst still lumpy became a little easier. It was not long before we arrived at the Stables Coffee Shop in Church Brampton where we were joined by John, who not fancying the ride had travelled by car. Why have I never thought of doing that?
After refuelling we departed back towards Moulton via Pitsford, an easterly direction that ensured that we were wind assisted all the way back.
It was pretty tough going for a leisure ride, but nevertheless thoroughly enjoyable.
Thanks to Milton for planning and leading the ride!
CTC Northampton 