The first serious test of my ability, or inability to get to grips with the trike, will take place next weekend- weather permitting! At 62 to 50 miles per day, instead of the usual AUDAX type distances, this is probably quite tame. In a world obsessed by speed & distance, this will be a chill out ride, with the first leg going via Bangor/Caernarvon and Porthmadog, or something of that order, with a hill never far away. All reasonably local to us, with many of the locations mentioned being achievable in a good days ride.
Check on weather around the Wednesday mark, but looking ok....apart from Sunday with a little rain. Who knows? At the very least there will be Bob on his ICE Vortex (no contest), and Barry as support in his camper van. Barry will carry some dry clothing and all the camping stuff for us etc. (pretty novel really).
However, as different routes and accommodation (YHA) are being considered, all this could change ! The GB rally coincides with our venture, so we will be trying to avoid the routes around the immediate rally area. Camping on the other hand looks the order of the day, as we continue this years contribution to our outdoor bent, as our luxurious bedding arrangements during 2013 will testify. Not satisfied with going on the trainer for the winter, or putting the summer bike away........we are venturing out as if its summer.....ish !!
Photograph(s) from this years 'Phil Ligget Challenge ride' up near Sheffield! Holme Moss?.....surely not.
Anyway, enough of that>
Confirmed Route:
Day 1 Conwy to Barmouth - 62 miles (Camping overnight - yes I know! Camping in November ?)
Day 2 Barmouth loop ride - 50 miles > Corris Valley-Dolgellau & cycle trail returning to Barmouth
Day 3 Barmouth to Conwy (Return Leg) - 54 miles.
Positive feelings/comfort & good drivers (mostly):
My initial feelings on the trike experience have been very positive, and is achieving the comfort aspect that was sought. The riding technique is different and it will take me time to get used to it undoubtedly. I must also applaud vehicle drivers generally for their care in overtaking us recumbent chappies, making the experience that much more reassuring. They don't just pass, they go around the trike !
Not so good driver(s):
Of course, this is not always the case as a ride during this last week bears out. Bob capturing this piece of driving in Llandudno, Conwy, North Wales, during less than favorable weather conditions. Who said we're 'fair weather' cyclists? Published on the 8th November 2013 Bob on the trike was nearly sideswiped and forced off the road upon entering the roundabout by the overtaking driver of DK51 UEO ignoring a right hand signal in heavy rain.
I assume that the horn served as a quick reminder?
MMhhhh!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aZDgxiI8S9s&feature=youtu.be&hd=1 and another one for the Library @: http://www.youtube.com/user/RecumbentTrikeRider/videos
Lets hope the weather and car driving is better on our ride out next week?
Day 1: Conwy to Barmouth 62 miles (99.77 KM)
Conwy:
Caernarvon Castle:
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Day 2: Barmouth Loop - 52 miles (83.68 km)
down the coast to Machynllethh/Corris Valley-Dolgellau & cycle trail to Barmouth
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Day 3: Barmouth to Conwy 54 miles (86.90 km)
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