Short Ride
Eight of us this morning including new member Rob on his inaugural ride. Conditions not too bad as we dropped down to Low Bridge. Fairly busy along Abbey Road. Through Knaresborough and to Farnham where we turned left for Lingerfield and Scotton. Dismount by the Guy Fawkes due to road closure but we were able to get through pushing the bikes on the footpath. Right and then right again. Very quiet roads up to Brearton where we spent a little time chatting and appreciating the village green/church/pond and trees following a brief encounter with a dog. Around the loop and back on to the Nidd road. Along here we endured quite a sharp shower with a bit of hail which resulted in a little spurt down the A61 and into Ripley and the Farm shop where it immediately stopped raining. Geraldine grabbed the big table as were placed our orders. Good quick service and lively conversation followed. Final leg up the Greenway where I departed at Bilton crossing to head home. Thanks to all for your company and hopefully we haven’t deterred Rob from further rides. Around 21 miles. Colin B
Medium Steady Ride
Five joined me today for one of my favourite rides following Route 148 to Risplith and Brimham. Nothing particularly eventful happened, the weather was blustery at times but we still enjoyed interesting conversations and spectacular landscapes. Thanks to Debbie, Gordon, Steve and Steve for your company and in addition to Gia for back marking. Tim2
Medium Steady – Brisk Ride
Tim2 split the ride into 2 groups so a slightly quicker group of 8 set off, picking up Michelle & Andrew at Bilton, then up Scarah Bank where most of us regrouped at the summit, but Navah was on her own training mission so kept going. We sailed down Watergate, pushed up How Hill then took the roller-coaster Low Gate Lane to a pleasant pause-café at G&Ts in Risplith where we were soon joined by the second group. The 18 mph winds with accompanying squalls were a chilly challenge along the B6265 to Brimham Rocks but the cloudscapes were fabulous as we steered towards Stripe Lane and Birstwith. Michelle, Andrew & Peter L headed right to Hampsthwaite after Clint Bank whilst Mike & Rachel W, Steve K, Rob, Andy H, & I were rewarded with beautiful bluebells in Hollybank Woods on the approach to Ripley and final split on the Greenway. Thanks to all for company over approx 34 miles and 2,410 ft. Yvonne D.
Medium Plus – Brisk Ride
Only 5 of the assembled throng at the Showground made the less sensible choice of heading to Bolton Abbey via Stumps Cross. The challenge of the wind was soon felt over Norwood Lane, and whilst the road to Duck Street Lane was approaching tolerable, the bit from Greenhow past Stumps Cross was pretty bad, but there were great views to be had, spring lambs to spot and some excellent food at Tea on the Green. The tailwind on the last section was particularly welcome, and we had about the usual number of motorists who have yet to read and understand the updated Highway Code. A marginally irritating 99.8km for me, but a good, if tough, day out. Vince
