England : Tyne and Wear Virgin Money Cyclone 2013

[Fnaar]

Getting excited now. This was at the end of Brunton Lane this evening.

 

[Hip Priest]

Last 3 times have ranged between 6.45 and 7.30 hrs riding time, plus stops.

Good going that mate. If I make it round in 8 hours I'll be delighted!

 

[Hip Priest]

I did a century in 7 and a bit hours last year, but it was relatively flat (5000ft climbing). Mind, I'm fitter now!

 

[Fnaar]

Well, the machine is lubed, tweaked, has had its nuts tightened and is ready to go on Saturday...
and I had a look at the bike too

Just spent a coupla hours making sure it's all in order (nowt to sing about, it's an 8 yr old Giant roadie)
Bit worried about one of my tyres, actually... a bit worn in one spot...would be happier getting a new one, but no time to get/put on, really

 

[Hip Priest]

Don't forget to give your helmet a good polish!

 

[Fnaar]

Right, signed up, had a pint, off home to pasta - load

 

[Hip Priest]

Me too! Two pints and a load of scran. Just got to put my number on and pump up the tyres, then it's chill-out time. Best of luck.

 

[Fnaar]

You too

 

[AndyRM]

Enjoy the day lads!

 

[Fnaar]

Enjoy the day lads!

You too @AndyRM I'll be wearing my Cycle Chat shirt, so say hi if you spot me

 

[Archie_tect]

Have a blast everyone... We're down in Barnard Castle for the day, but I'm wishing I was doing the 63 again, but as we're saving the £50 that it costs MrsA_T and me to enter... perhaps we'll go for a meal on Saturday night instead! Rather sponsor friends for other things... like Mickle!

Besides which we can do it all year round for nothing! [sounds a bit mean-spirited, but y'know what I mean]

 

[AndyRM]

You too @AndyRM I'll be wearing my Cycle Chat shirt, so say hi if you spot me

Will do fella. I assume I should be looking out for a battered collection of the Viz on a bike?

 

[AndyRM]

How did you chaps get on? Bit annoyed as they had a problem with the timing stations, so I don't yet know my proper time. Just over 4 hours I think!

 

[Fnaar]

Excellent ride! Total 7hr 37, actual riding time (acc to Strava) 7.05, which makes it my fastest since 2009. No comments on my Cycle Chat jersey though

 

[Hip Priest]

Well done Fnaar. I managed a 7hr 49, so I'm chuffed. I had to stop on that brutal climb just before Wark, but managed to get going again. I also had to walk up most of the first Ryal. Both climbs are do-able for me, but not with Bilsmoor and Troughend Common in my legs!

Great day all told. Just got home.