A Week Worth Waiting For

Some months ago I followed the advice of a friend and made the somewhat startling decision to have a bike built - truly bespoke - just for me. I have never had anything made for me before and never imagined that I would, ever, so this was not going to be a culmination of rushed and rash decisions.

Initially, to try and justify this bespokeness I had to reiterate how cycling seems to have taken over my life in the past few years. I ride a bike every single day, it's my main form of exercise, my only form of transport, my job and for those that know me (although this blog may give a hint) my absolute passion!  I am never happier than when I'm riding a bicycle - grinning from ear to ear the moment my hands are on the brakes and handlebars or my feet are on the pedals!

The decision as to which frame and frame builder to use was made easy for me. I chose Leeds-based Woodrup as frame builders purely because of A Man Called Vernon. 

 

Last year said Vernon rode his brand new Woodrup Chimera on a ride I was on and let me try it. It was amazing. A beautiful bike that he rode and rides all over the country including up the beast of Brighton (aka to the top of Ditchling Beacon). 

 

Finding out some months ago that Fitzrovia Bicycles in New Cavendish Street, W1 are the only London dealer for Woodrup sealed the deal. I did pop on a train to Leeds to meet the frame builder - Kevin Sayles. I also met the head of Woodrup - a family run business started by a husband and wife team with a passion for cycling. 
 

 
Having a bike built has been a fascinating journey all of its own. Both Woodrup and Fitzrovia have been so informative and helpful. Their bicycle knowledge has been outstanding. Kevin has been building bicycles for 35 years. Tom, Will, Alex and their team at Fitzrovia are all brilliant - a group of high calibre mechanics who all really know their stuff and really understand what puts the cycles into bicycles and how to match excellent service with standards. 

They have researched and sourced a variety of components for consideration, providing explanations and advice on the pros and cons of each, always promoting the cheaper alternatives rather than the most money-spinning. None of them, not even for a moment made me feel small or stupid by the questions I was asking or by my lack of technical know how.

Indeed, not being the worlds greatest mechanic I have chosen components that are going to last. Selecting one version then swapping it out in a few months time is not for me.  Friends have also given great advice - disc brakes yes but hydraulic no. My ability to repair hydraulic disc brakes in the middle of nowhere or indeed in the middle of the kitchen would be a big fat no-no!

Just around the corner from Fitzrovia Bicycles is Velorution who, as another independent bike shop, also hand pick the items they sell including the new Brooks Cambium B17 saddle which rather than being made from leather is made from rubber.

My approach to listen to the experts has paid off a million times - I have had the bicycle for one week and I am, to coin a phrase, as happy as a pancake! When I collected it I thought that either I was going to ride it straight home, put it on the wall and never ride it again or I was going to ride it until morning. 

 

I couldn't believe how incredible it was - so smooth and nothing felt that it was brand new as it was so easy. It was like slicing water. Or stirring a cup of tea.  There really has been no element of having to wear it in - like you do when you buy a new pair of shoes. It really is so comfortable, I can hardly believe it. 15 miles later I managed to force myself to head home in time for supper.  My top speed with very little effort was 25.9mph! Wowser!! Another 15 miles the next day and then I had to wait a week until I could ride it again. This time with a group of friends I haven't seen for a while. Really strong cyclists - all of whom could repair their hydraulic disc brakes in an instant! 

 
Four of us set off from Hyde Park corner towards Trafalgar Square. Our conversational pace had split us into two groups and by the time we realised we had lost the other two we were already at St Paul's Cathedral. A quick call established a visitation had delayed TC and Ianrauk so we headed east. 

Our destination was Trinity Buoys Wharf although I think I should rename it Trinity Boys Wharf as the male contingents always love it. Full fat carbed breakfasts in a melange of inventive activities. Respectful though I am of Sir Michael Faraday and his workshop it seems to be the only Sunday London Ride destination at the moment...! Luckily rb58 guided me through the City and on to the A13 so we could have a real bike ride rather than the ghastly super(not)myway that is full of shared pavements, glass, potholes and roads that run across it that I have used before to the wharf. 

At Fat Buoys Diner breakfasts were consumed, Jurek and Wanda1010 joined us and we all chatted about all sorts of stuff. As we do! This included the Fridays rides and we were all of the view that no matter how many rides we do - nobody but nobody leads a group ride to the standard that their Leggships do (and yes AH that includes you because you put the icing on the cake for all of us). 

The time flew by, more teas and coffees then it was time to go. A quick look at a tidal bell and then off to the Woolwich ferry after a visitation was repaired. This provided an opportunity for Ianrauk to test ride my bike. I think he liked it! He did give me some cleaning tips - some of which I have already put into practise!  

 

Our timing at the Woolwich ferry was perfect - we rode down the ramp and the barriers closed behind us.  I was busy taking pics and a man stepped out of his car to take a group shot. Very kind.  Those of us with gears set ourselves in the lower ones ready for the ramp and once on the main road we all headed off into different directions - TC1 and I headed back to town.

What a day. There had been much hilarity! Frinstance .... Being told we hadn't needed to go to HPC conveniences because Mista Preston wasn't with us! And the speed at which we all ran outside to watch TC1 ride fixed - convinced he was going to come a cropper (when of course he was as cool as a, err, cat)!!  

And Ianrauk saying that rb58s steel fixed steed was nothing but a toy bike - to which rb58 replied - yes, gears are for girls!! And the moment later on when I was struggling with the amount of force I needed to keep up with TC1. "Is there a headwind?" I puffed. "No" came the reply "you are in the wrong gear" he went on. I looked at my feet and pedalled with all my might. "Are you sure there isn't a headwind?" I asked again. "Ha! Yes indeed there is a headwind and it's quite strong" came back the guffawing reply! He was actually laughing at his own joke!!

I don't know many miles I rode but every one a winner! I can't believe how long it's been since I've seen these fab peeps and much look forward to doing it again. As for Woodrup and Fitzrovia Cycles - I am very, very happy! It has been a very humbling experience, understanding the true meaning of the word craftsmanship. My bike for life has me smiling already - no wonder I call myself the 5mile cyclist!

A Ride Amongst Champions! Inaugural London Brompton Club Ride

The most miles I have done on my Brommie in one day is 35. A pootle around Central London that ended up including Richmond Park and Surbiton. The thought of actively choosing to ride a Brommie over long distances never appealed as I have way too much fun on my road bike. But curiosity kept me interested. I know people who have cycled from London to Scotland, Paris and Geneva on theirs so when I found an opportunity to ride from Reading to Richmond with this special band of Bromptonites I couldn't resist.

A train from that secret station - the one that moves every time I try and find it (I blame Michael Bond) and at 9.30 I found myself outside Reading Station with fellow Bromptonites. We gathered by the smoking area (?) and soon there were 16 of us! 

There was a large police presence in preparation for Reading v QPR and as the heavens opened during our leaders pep talk I was sorely tempted to pop into a pub and stay there!! However we all climbed into our wet weather gear and headed out of the city. About five miles later there was a visitation. 

Conveniently in a tunnel so we could take shelter. My brand new Lyzene pump (with a gauge) was called into action and proved itself to be the best small pump I have ever come across (and I've tried a few!)

Out of the tunnel (a reminder of the LonJoG tunnel outside Pitlochry came to my head)  back into the rain and we headed along the towpath. The weather kept looking like it might dry up but never quite where we were.

The two new additions to my winter wardrobe were however coming into their own. Up until now - winter wise (hmmm that could be a title for my next blog!) - I have worn two merino base layers and a cycling jersey under my Gore-the-best-purchase-ever-made-in-the-jacket-department-Oxygen jacket. Today however I have progressed to cashmere on top of my Merino base layer. A cashmere scarf, socks and jumper were absolutely perfect.

Part of me thinks I am a Gore girl as my Gore Oxygen jacket and over trousers are faultless and work as both waterproof and windproof yet still breathe rather than make me sweat like a shower. Gore have also brought out two new windstopper jackets although I haven't had a chance to put them to the test yet. However after today, cashmere is definitely my winter warmer!  I digress...Back to the ride!

 

I think it did stop raining for a bit - just after another visitation. This time we were by an old fashioned wooden bustop which provided some shelter from the elements. As with most cyclists the priority was to keep the bikes  out of the rain - the owners stayed outside!! I headed to the back to see if I could help with the visitation. A fellow Bromptonite produced his Lyzene tyre levers which were awesome and definitely on my Father Christmas list!!

 

Soon we were on our way again. The route was lovely and the company magnificent. All the Bromptons were err, Bromptons but they were all different! And they had travelled from afar. Oxford, Buckinghamshire and London for this special ride. Such a kind group.  I was offered biscuits at the start which set the standard of generosity for the day. General chats about a zillion different things, Some Brompton banter (obviously!) and much laughter. One of my fave moments was discovering how many of us were World Champions having taken part in the 2013 Brompton World Championships - and relegating the two that hadn't to the back of the ride!! Hilarious!!

 

We cycled on fast roads and country lanes. Some of the puddles we rode through reminded me of my ride to Germany this time last year but at least this time the water levels were not higher than my pedals!  Those riding without cleats stuck their feet out like Robert Redford in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid!! 

Charlie and I joined up as TECs (that's Tail End Charlie/Tail End Charlotte) which was great fun and I was allowed to be the one who called out All Up although there was no opportunity to do this because The Man at the Front cycled off before I could say it. Charlie and I had a right laugh as we realised that as this was not a Friday Night Ride to the Coast - it was a day ride and we were visible so the all up call was not required!  

 

We followed the Thames (although we were wetter)! The elevenses stop in Ascot turned to a pavement stop outside Costa who excelled themselves by offering us, non customers, Christmas Cake and biscuit samplers. I will be back!

 Reaching Windsor Great Park was sheer delight. What a lovely place in which to cycle. The rain had stopped and we rode through it six abreast. 

A pub lunch in Anglers Forehead which does quite the most spectacular food. What a chef they have in their kitchen. I did find their policy to add 50p to all orders paid by card - regardless of the amount or the card to be a bit greedy. £9.50 for a bowl of soup, bowl of chips, mineral water and a cup of tea was heading for London prices but my goodness it was delicious! They were very efficient and the outside area was perfect for visitation repairs!

I didn't dare stay inside for too long as I thought if I was too snug in the warm I would stay there for the afternoon.  A few of us stayed outside surrounded by Brommies - what's not to like?! With lunch over we were off! Out into a bit of drizzle, I put my sopping Gore gloves on at the recommendation of a fellow rider who suggested if I wiggled my fingers the gloves would warm up and dry up. Whoop! Whoop! They did! 

Along the Thames which was rather high, Hampton Court, Kingston and into Richmond. The sun had gone for the night and I realised what an urban ride my Brommie is - the lights were completely useless for seeing where I was going. I could be seen which is one thing but to not be able to see the road - potholes, glass and puddles is ridiculous. The rear hub and dynamo light system that I didn't chose when I bought my Brommie are about to be ordered. Hopefully suggestions and recommendations will be forthcoming - they will be very gratefully received. 

The other thing that tells me mine is an urban Brommie is the fact that I have never, ever seen it so caked in mud! Truly! 

As we headed to Richmond Station we said our goodbyes and thank yous. If they were missed - Aka Bob, David and David thank you. And to The London Brompton Club - thank you very much for making me feel so welcome and along with Charlie B for being such fine company.  If this is what it's like to do long rides on a Brommie - I am looking forward to the next one! Thank you everyone!

 57.18 miles in 4.24hrs with a top speed of 19.9 mph on the flat! Woohoooo!!!!!
 
The rest of my pics are here

Ghosts, Ghouls and hooded shadows

Cycling in Central London with a group of fellow cyclists last week had an unexpected twist. Whilst waiting in Torrington Square, out of the darkness a woman rushed towards us spouting in hysterical tones that we must follow her. We were to hurry quickly to a terrace further along the road. 

 As we reached the spot we found police scientists studying the scene of a crime. The woman was shouting at the police saying that a murder had taken place. Someone was missing and the detective had to take action, the woman was insisting.

 

However, things didn't quite go as she planned. Rather than take heed of the warnings, the woman was arrested and led away. As she left, she shouted instructions and threw a book at one of our group. We were ushered back to our bikes by the forensic scientists and we cycled to the end of the street. 

 Left and onwards, in and out of cycle paths, overtaken by commuters who knew nothing of our urgency, all the way to Argyle square. As we propped up our bicycle against a wall another woman ran towards us urgently ushering us towards what looked like was about to be a ritual killing. 

Hooded shadows waving sticks of fire were swarming around a young female who couldn't escape. They caught her and carried her above their heads towards her fate.  Apparently we could stop this if we chanted really, really loudly. We did. So loudly that people in the surrounding houses were leaning out of their windows to watch. The girl was eventually placed on the ground, still in one piece and the hooded shadows started moving towards us.

Towards us! We lept onto our bicycles and cycled out into the night. Right turns, left turns but definitely no uturns a few miles later we reached a pair of gates leading onto hallowed ground. A nun scurried up to us and begged us to follow her along the gravelled path. 

We ran with her. It was so dark and the sky was so clear. As we reached an old oak tree a man of the cloth greeted us with great enthusiasm. He expressed his immense gratitude to us for being there and then pleaded for our help. Suddenly it seemed that we were about to be attacked by strong forces of spirits. Could we all hold hands? he asked. Indeed we could - I was terrified. 

Surrounded by gravestones in a large grave yard I could see moving shapes and shadows slowly sweep towards us. The only option was to chant as loudly as we could. Louder and louder in the middle of a graveyard. The shadows seemed to slow down a little. We carried on chanting as we ran back to our bicycles and cycled away out into the night.

We rode past cafés, restaurants, people going home - did they not realise what was happening? On and on we went. Eventually we reached our destination which in fact turned out to be the beginning! This was where it had started. The forensic team were still working but they had a new member of their team. How could this be? What was happening? What on earth was going on?

 

And that is where it ends. An absolutely brilliant evening on two wheels hosted by none other than Camden Council - bringing bicycling to the borough through a Halloween night ride. What a great way to explore Camden and a great way to spend time on a bike.

 
Thank you  Camden - that was Genius.

Two days later I found myself in Kensington's Holland Walk just as the Parks Police were locking the park gates. Standing all alone under dimly lit street lamps it was more than a little bit eerie. 

I saw two very slow cyclists go by - must be recumbents as they were so low but a bit worrying as they were cycling all over the place. As they reached me I could see their silhouettes - they weren't bicycles at all!! They were two black Labradors with red bicycle lights on their collars!

 A few minutes later I was joined by some real cyclists and not long after we were a group of 30 - all watching our host welcome us and lead us into the Park (keys were provided!) 

 

Our guests were very well dressed as we were attending a wedding and there was also a fantastic collection of bicycles! An introduction to the evening accompanied by delicious cup cakes from http://www.storminacupcake.com/ set the theme of the evening.  

At the bottom of the steps to Holland Park we learned that a certain Lord Oberwain had massive matrimonial disharmony and our assistance was required in setting things straight.  This meant cycling all over Kensington to track down people from his past who could apparently redeem his status.  

Down a very steep hill, up to Ladbroke Grove we rode, with Lord Oberwain pedaling with us as fast as he could. Along all sorts of back streets, over bridges, all the way to Little Wormwood Scrubs where we stood under a large tree to hear whether things were working out a bit better for him. 

Some of my fellow cyclists hadn't ridden a bike for about 25 years and couldn't believe how much fun it was - riding a bike, attending a wedding, exploring the borough at night and seeing it from such a very different viewpoint. Brilliant! Then we were off again!

 

Cycling across Little wormwood scrubs was a real treat. The distant hue of street lighting, the open skies and the darkness of it all. As I was at the very back of the group being the Tail End Charlotte,  I could see nothing but a glow of flashing red lights. It was an incredible sight and I realised the last time I had seen this was on a Friday Night Ride to the Coast!   

The eeriness from earlier in the week returned, it was so still even the shadows had shadows.  It was all so mysterious that if I hadn't been given a route map for my TEC role, I would have had absolutely no idea where I was, even when we left the park as we weaved our way along a lovely collection of roads

 

 Away from the main hubbub of normal London life we dropped down to a Canal and rode for a few miles along the towpath.  In the dark.  The reflection of our bicycles on the water's surface, the silence, the residents of the barges settling in for a quiet night.. It was absolutely magical.

Being at the back,  I couldn't quite keep up with the host to hear the developments of the Ballard of Lord Oberwain http://www.bikeminded.org/2013/10/fancy-a-19th-century-halloween-ride/ so I could only hope that Lord Oberwain's wedding renactment was working to his advantage.  Luckily a fellow guest who was from Totalwomenscycling.com followed the plot perfectly and wrote about it which hopefully fills in the rather large gaps I have left.  (Totalwomenscycling does exactly what it says on the tin and is so full of information that it is now bookmarked!)

As made our way to All Saints Church in Notting Hill, Lord Oberwain and his bride were wed.  A glorious wedding that caught the eye of passers by who joined in to witness the matrimonial proceedings.  The reception was held at Pedlars on Talbot Road from where celebrations were heard for miles around.  The caterers excelled themselves!  What a Party!

A brilliant Halloween in the London borough of Kensington and Chelsea hosted by their cycling arm, Bikeminded, who not only know how to host a wedding (assisted by the fantastic artistes of exquisite folly) http://www.exquisitefolly.co.uk/ but they really know how to make riding a bicycle an absolute party on two wheels.