I had my first cycle commute today in years.
It's only 3 miles each way and I had to take a rucksack as I am concerned that my Defy will leave home if I put a stem rack and light panniers on him.
I rode from home, down the Marlpit Lane and then got onto the Marriotts Way cycle path (Cycle network route 1) and into the city. From there I followed the cyclepath to the base of the flyover and discovered that, by staying on the left hand side of the main road, that I couldn't get to work. I retraced my steps, walked under the underpass and then back on my bike to work.
I did have to lock up by using a not bloomin' big enough tree but it's right outside the door to reception and covered by the security cameras. All the other cycle racks were taken. There were a couple of locked bikes just leaned against the wall but I was not about to risk that.
On the way home I kept to the left of the main road (the opposite side to when I came in) and crossed the road at the crossing and very nearly had a clipless moment as my foot just wouldn't come out of the pedal. I didn't fall off so that was OK. Then back along the Marriotts, following a 20 something year old on a nice hybrid. She was going about the right speed so I followed her, at a sensible distance. I followed her at the start of the hill up Marlpit Lane too but overtook after the first 100 yards or so as she was just going a little too slow and I'd never have got up the hill.
I am not a big fan of Marlpit Lane, it's not particularly huge but the speed humps don't help. I concentrated on doing the next little bit. I'll ride to the end of the zigzags on the crossing, I'll ride to the next hump, I'll ride to the parked 4x4, oh, it's levelling out. I followed another cyclist along the path bit (not sure if it's cyclepath there or not) and nearly fell off again, just wobbled really badly. I got a short breather at the lights and then over and heading home. I rode way past my flat as stopping before 3 miles is just not on.
Faster average speed on the way home but then I didn't have to walk anywhere, pushing the bike. 6.5 miles, give or take in way too much time. I did get out on the bike though, which is the main thing at this time of year. I might commute to guitar lesson (same building, same office) tomorrow night as it's a quick ride, faster than the car. Only if it's not raining though.
didn't see much mind you, is foggy and I was lying down!
yes 10 hrs and 50 mins apart...
