Yesterday was the only day this week when I had time for a long ride, so I decided to extend one of my routes from last year.
I started off heading West up Wharfedale, climbing up to Kirkby Overblow and then on as far as Pool in Wharfedale. Kirkby Overblow was aptly named today! there was a strong and quite gusty wing blowing into my face down the valley. I carried on a little further West and then turned North climbing up Stainburn Bank (17% according to the sign). I rode up this hill last Autumn, and ran out of energy shortly before the top, so my objective was no stopping today. I took it steady, made it up, and was able to carry on riding - job done!
After a short respite, I turned West again, towards little Almscliffe Crag. The road here is very exposed, and it felt as if somebody was pulling me backwards. After passing the summit I had the somewhat irritating experience of having to pedal downhill to make progress. I crossed the busy A59, cycled past the "Golf Balls" of Menwith Hill communication monitoring station, then dropped down towards Birstwith. I missed a turn just outside Birstwith, and ended up dropping down a 16% hill into the village, the climbing a 14% hill back out again. Good for the legs in the long term I suppose! After passing through Hampstwaite, I climbed up Clint Bank and down through Bedlam to Ripley. The wind was now behind me and, with no sharp bends to work about I had an exhilarating run down her.
I stooped in Ripley for a coffee and cake (and managed to dodge a few spots of rain), before heading home through Knaresborough and Wetherby. the wind was now behind me, and, in spite of tired legs, I recoded a whole list of PR's on the return run.
No photos today, as our daughter has taken our rugged camera away on holiday. However, this is the route:
The detail can be seen here:
https://www.strava.com/activities/327993810