Post by: trickedem on 27 August, 2015, 10:58:20 am
Post by: LMT on 27 August, 2015, 12:10:31 pm
Post by: Aunt Maud on 27 August, 2015, 12:32:44 pm
Post by: jamesld8 on 27 August, 2015, 01:15:09 pm
14 May 2016, according to R.T.
like wot Adam said and in email from Ritchie re Barmouth Bridge petition
BCM is on 14 May in 2016 so back to its usual weekend. Entries will be open as soon as the AUK online calendar is updated
just hope Barmouth Bridge is open to cyclist though ::-)
Post by: TigaSefi on 27 August, 2015, 02:14:32 pm
14 May 2016, according to R.T.
like wot Adam said and in email from Ritchie re Barmouth Bridge petition
BCM is on 14 May in 2016 so back to its usual weekend. Entries will be open as soon as the AUK online calendar is updated
just hope Barmouth Bridge is open to cyclist though ::-)
Can always convert your bike into a pedalo!
Post by: Somnolent on 27 August, 2015, 07:50:50 pm
just hope Barmouth Bridge is open to cyclist though ::-)
There's always the Penmaenpool bridge - adds only 4km
And Pont Brewit re-opened last month, so that cuts off the extra 10km we've had to do for the last few years.
Post by: jamesld8 on 28 August, 2015, 06:56:17 am
just hope Barmouth Bridge is open to cyclist though ::-)
There's always the Penmaenpool bridge - adds only 4km
And Pont Brewit re-opened last month, so that cuts off the extra 10km we've had to do for the last few years.
Good that has finally been completed---and isn`t it strange how probably £millions has been spent rebuilding that bridge yet Barmouth cyclist / pedestrian bridge is being threatened by a few £10k annually ::-)
Of course it will be down to different agencies, budgets etc but what a case of unjoined up thinking ::-) ::-)
Post by: trickedem on 02 September, 2015, 10:43:05 pm
Post by: Aunt Maud on 03 September, 2015, 06:31:07 am
Entries are now open. So I have taken the plunge and entered. I need to set myself a weight loss target now, to help with all those hills.
What!!!
Even before you've heard jamesld8's long range weather forecast. Is that wise ?
Post by: jamesld8 on 03 September, 2015, 08:14:56 am
Entries are now open. So I have taken the plunge and entered. I need to set myself a weight loss target now, to help with all those hills.
What!!!
Even before you've heard jamesld8's long range weather forecast. Is that wise ?
Thank you Adam ::-) I must get that super computer modelling better then........
BUT
to plaguarise a well known melanistic ovine " weather guaranteed" :facepalm:
Post by: DJR9 on 15 November, 2015, 09:52:30 pm
Cheers
Darren
Post by: ad441 on 16 November, 2015, 03:09:45 pm
Post by: L CC on 16 November, 2015, 03:11:38 pm
Or you could paypal me and I'll add you to our cheque.
Post by: ad441 on 16 November, 2015, 03:19:20 pm
Post by: vorsprung on 16 November, 2015, 04:33:31 pm
is this some kind of typo / mistake or is Richie trying to cut down the field to a more manageable size??
Post by: Veloman on 16 November, 2015, 06:06:52 pm
Also no mention of maximum number.
Post by: Aunt Maud on 16 November, 2015, 06:11:59 pm
Post by: jsabine on 16 November, 2015, 06:13:40 pm
Post by: mattc on 16 November, 2015, 07:11:06 pm
Is there any way of entering this that doesn't involve sending a cheque? I don't think I've had a cheque book in years...
Sorry, forgot you're an Audaxer ...
Post by: ad441 on 16 November, 2015, 10:55:25 pm
Quote
Funnily enough it was the very first thing I thought of. However I then thought 'I wonder if there's an easier and more convenient method of entering (for both organiser and entrant) that has accidentally been omitted from the Audax UK website?' Next I thought 'it'd takes 30 seconds to post on a popular audax forum where there's a thread about that exact audax and many people more knowledgeable than me. Why don't I enquire if there is such a method before I go to the trouble of asking friends if any of them still have a cheque book?'Have you tried asking friends if they have a cheque-book?
Sorry, forgot you're an Audaxer ...
Post by: Whitedown Man on 17 November, 2015, 08:36:06 am
Post by: LEE on 17 November, 2015, 08:50:56 am
I hadn't written a cheque since my son left primary school nearly 10 years ago - they seemed wedded to paper-based payment methods. I felt quite nostalgic doing so - like coming across a kettle that didn't turn itself off, or a phone attached to a wall by a wire......
...or a steel bicycle with a leather saddle, cloth saddlebag, mudguards and a dynamo.
Post by: Aunt Maud on 17 November, 2015, 01:44:59 pm
Post by: vorsprung on 17 November, 2015, 04:12:30 pm
"Entries should arrive before 2 Jan 2016"?????
is this some kind of typo / mistake or is Richie trying to cut down the field to a more manageable size??
Fixed now, more normal cut off
Post by: GPS on 03 December, 2015, 08:16:56 am
Is it really over-subscribed already ?
Post by: L CC on 03 December, 2015, 10:34:38 am
Post by: BlackSheep on 03 December, 2015, 12:49:40 pm
I read the description as meaning 'the ride is regularly oversubscribed, and if so, the entry criteria will be AUK members first'.I read it as that also, bit naughty really - as AUK state events are open to all.
Also a bit self defeating, as from my experience it's the non-members that have a lower DNS & DNF rate.
Post by: Somnolent on 03 December, 2015, 03:23:30 pm
Just about to send off the entry form and cheque ... and was wondering what are my chances of actually getting a place.
Well, the sooner you get your entry in the post the more chance you'll have.
It was about 2/3rds full last time I used my Magic PowersTM to have a sneaky look 'behind the curtains' ... but with postal entry once can never be sure that Ritchie's postman isn't struggling up his drive with a bag bulging with entries just as I'm typing this.
Post by: GPS on 03 December, 2015, 04:45:20 pm
It was about 2/3rds full last time I used my Magic PowersTM to have a sneaky look 'behind the curtains' ... but with postal entry once can never be sure that Ritchie's postman isn't struggling up his drive with a bag bulging with entries just as I'm typing this.
Thanks for employing your Magic Powers and behind-the-curtains access on this one. Much appreciated. :-)
There is a chance then .... but 2/3rds full already though ? That's a popular ride !
Post by: adam w on 03 December, 2015, 08:14:31 pm
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 04 December, 2015, 06:34:20 am
Yes Mr Black Sheep I understand, but there also needs to be some benefit from being in AUK and I like this one :thumbsup:I read the description as meaning 'the ride is regularly oversubscribed, and if so, the entry criteria will be AUK members first'.I read it as that also, bit naughty really - as AUK state events are open to all.
Also a bit self defeating, as from my experience it's the non-members that have a lower DNS & DNF rate.
Steve
Post by: BlackSheep on 05 December, 2015, 03:05:43 pm
As per the FAQ section on the AUK website.
Can anybody ride Audax UK's events?
Yes.
Although technically, AUK does not 'run' events - these are run by clubs or individuals under AUK's supervision.
When a non-member enters an event, there is a small additional fee over and above the usual entry fee, which gives the rider 'temporary membership' of AUK for the duration of the event. This is necessary for insurance reasons.
...........................
As an aside, there's not really such a thing as "non member", as anyone that enters an event is a member. Either by annual or five-year membership. Or event membership, for those that don't fall into either of the two former categories.
Then of course there are the true freeloaders, the CTC members. No need for any form of membership or on the day AUK membership.
Post by: raymondoyo on 03 May, 2016, 12:38:29 pm
Post by: Hot Flatus on 03 May, 2016, 04:00:39 pm
Post by: raymondoyo on 03 May, 2016, 04:59:27 pm
Post by: Hot Flatus on 03 May, 2016, 06:29:05 pm
https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=96725.msg2009803#msg2009803
Its was a quick and dirty plotting and I've just had a closer look and there might be some minor mistakes such as taking minor roads alongside main road etc. If I get time I'll do a clean version
Post by: Whitedown Man on 03 May, 2016, 07:00:44 pm
Post by: jamesld8 on 03 May, 2016, 07:10:59 pm
It's great that there are so many varied GPXs being posted, but can anyone help out a bone-idle lightweight lazy-arsed so-and-so wondering which if any is the definitive one for a rider who prioritises avoidance of steep climbs even at the expense of increased climbing and/or busier roads (asking for a friend)
use route sheet :thumbsup: that uses A470, B road Llanidloes to Staylittle. Basically once you`re @ Builth follow A470 to Llani; then TL to Staylittle on B road; then @ Staylittle TL SP Machynlleth mountain Rd; then A487 to Dolgellau etc enjoy there be hills (maybe dragons too ;D )
Post by: Somnolent on 03 May, 2016, 07:16:54 pm
It's great that there are so many varied GPXs being posted, but can anyone help out a bone-idle lightweight lazy-arsed so-and-so wondering which if any is the definitive one for a rider who prioritises avoidance of steep climbs even at the expense of increased climbing and/or busier roads (asking for a friend)
use route sheet :thumbsup: that uses A470, B road Llanidloes to Staylittle. Basically once you`re @ Builth follow A470 to Llani; then TL to Staylittle on B road; then @ Staylittle TL SP Machynlleth mountain Rd; then A487 to Dolgellau etc enjoy there be hills (maybe dragons too ;D )
Or you could stay on the A470 all the way to Cemmaes Road then down the A489 into Machynlleth.
But a lot of that is on the return route, so I don't know why anyone would.
Post by: jamesld8 on 03 May, 2016, 07:22:25 pm
It's great that there are so many varied GPXs being posted, but can anyone help out a bone-idle lightweight lazy-arsed so-and-so wondering which if any is the definitive one for a rider who prioritises avoidance of steep climbs even at the expense of increased climbing and/or busier roads (asking for a friend)
use route sheet :thumbsup: that uses A470, B road Llanidloes to Staylittle. Basically once you`re @ Builth follow A470 to Llani; then TL to Staylittle on B road; then @ Staylittle TL SP Machynlleth mountain Rd; then A487 to Dolgellau etc enjoy there be hills (maybe dragons too ;D )
Or you could stay on the A470 all the way to Cemmaes Road then down the A489 into Machynlleth.
But a lot of that is on the return route, so I don't know why anyone would.
Thereby omitting control at Llanidloes !!! and invalidating your ride
Post by: Whitedown Man on 03 May, 2016, 07:24:41 pm
:thumbsup:It's great that there are so many varied GPXs being posted, but can anyone help out a bone-idle lightweight lazy-arsed so-and-so wondering which if any is the definitive one for a rider who prioritises avoidance of steep climbs even at the expense of increased climbing and/or busier roads (asking for a friend)
use route sheet :thumbsup: that uses A470, B road Llanidloes to Staylittle. Basically once you`re @ Builth follow A470 to Llani; then TL to Staylittle on B road; then @ Staylittle TL SP Machynlleth mountain Rd; then A487 to Dolgellau etc enjoy there be hills (maybe dragons too ;D )
Or you could stay on the A470 all the way to Cemmaes Road then down the A489 into Machynlleth.
But a lot of that is on the return route, so I don't know why anyone would.
Even nearly two weeks ahead, as a BCM virgin I'm looking forward to this ride more than any other I can remember
Post by: Whitedown Man on 03 May, 2016, 07:25:07 pm
Doh!It's great that there are so many varied GPXs being posted, but can anyone help out a bone-idle lightweight lazy-arsed so-and-so wondering which if any is the definitive one for a rider who prioritises avoidance of steep climbs even at the expense of increased climbing and/or busier roads (asking for a friend)
use route sheet :thumbsup: that uses A470, B road Llanidloes to Staylittle. Basically once you`re @ Builth follow A470 to Llani; then TL to Staylittle on B road; then @ Staylittle TL SP Machynlleth mountain Rd; then A487 to Dolgellau etc enjoy there be hills (maybe dragons too ;D )
Or you could stay on the A470 all the way to Cemmaes Road then down the A489 into Machynlleth.
But a lot of that is on the return route, so I don't know why anyone would.
Thereby omitting control at Llanidloes !!! and invalidating your ride
Post by: jamesld8 on 03 May, 2016, 07:32:31 pm
:thumbsup:It's great that there are so many varied GPXs being posted, but can anyone help out a bone-idle lightweight lazy-arsed so-and-so wondering which if any is the definitive one for a rider who prioritises avoidance of steep climbs even at the expense of increased climbing and/or busier roads (asking for a friend)
use route sheet :thumbsup: that uses A470, B road Llanidloes to Staylittle. Basically once you`re @ Builth follow A470 to Llani; then TL to Staylittle on B road; then @ Staylittle TL SP Machynlleth mountain Rd; then A487 to Dolgellau etc enjoy there be hills (maybe dragons too ;D )
Or you could stay on the A470 all the way to Cemmaes Road then down the A489 into Machynlleth.
But a lot of that is on the return route, so I don't know why anyone would.
Even nearly two weeks ahead, as a BCM virgin I'm looking forward to this ride more than any other I can remember
and possibly, maybe, hopefully after this thoroughly crap, cold, shite last few weeks weather BCM might be blessed with some reasonably acceptable warmish and calmish weather :) see http://www.theweatheroutlook.com/forecast/uk/LD8 so a LOT to look, fwd to !
Post by: adam w on 03 May, 2016, 07:36:36 pm
Post by: Somnolent on 03 May, 2016, 07:57:31 pm
It's great that there are so many varied GPXs being posted, but can anyone help out a bone-idle lightweight lazy-arsed so-and-so wondering which if any is the definitive one for a rider who prioritises avoidance of steep climbs even at the expense of increased climbing and/or busier roads (asking for a friend)
use route sheet :thumbsup: that uses A470, B road Llanidloes to Staylittle. Basically once you`re @ Builth follow A470 to Llani; then TL to Staylittle on B road; then @ Staylittle TL SP Machynlleth mountain Rd; then A487 to Dolgellau etc enjoy there be hills (maybe dragons too ;D )
Or you could stay on the A470 all the way to Cemmaes Road then down the A489 into Machynlleth.
But a lot of that is on the return route, so I don't know why anyone would.
Thereby omitting control at Llanidloes !!! and invalidating your ride
Sorry that should have read - cutting back to the A470 after Llanidloes control :facepalm:
It's still a silly idea though.
Post by: bobb on 03 May, 2016, 08:13:09 pm
Even nearly two weeks ahead, as a BCM virgin I'm looking forward to this ride more than any other I can remember
Likewise. But I'm also shitting myself more than any other I can remember! (Well, except for PBP...)
Post by: Hot Flatus on 03 May, 2016, 08:25:56 pm
...Until you get to Llandildoes.
I'm not doing the event but I'll be round and about for some of the route. Have a B&B in Dolgellau so will be going there first and then maybe a spin up to Beddgelert and back if I feel like it.
Post by: jamesld8 on 03 May, 2016, 08:42:29 pm
No need to shit yourself
...Until you get to Llandildoes.
maybe , it`s a 150 / 150 km approx. split but a 1500 / 2300 m ascent split, so DR could well be right :)
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 03 May, 2016, 08:45:46 pm
Is this an error or have I plotted it incorrectly?
Also why does this section claim to go to Nant Yr Arian when the control is in Llanidloes?
BB
Post by: Somnolent on 03 May, 2016, 10:12:41 pm
I have just printed the route sheet and the distance given to the second stop at Bistro Hafren is 161 km. No matter which way I plot it it comes out at about 145km.I get it to be even less than you. It's nowhere near 23km from the RAB near Llangurig to the turn for Llanidloes.
Is this an error or have I plotted it incorrectly?
There are differences in the other direction elsewhere.
Also why does this section claim to go to Nant Yr Arian when the control is in Llanidloes?Doubtless a carry-over from previous edition which did indeed go to Nant Yr Arian.
Post by: L CC on 03 May, 2016, 10:14:12 pm
Post by: HK on 04 May, 2016, 11:13:35 am
I have a B&B booked at Dollgellau but in the absence of someone with balls in charge of the brakes I don't think I'll be fast enough to make use of it.
It's much more fun to go for the bunkbed lottery and a conversation with the sleep police at Kings. Even on the tandem with an 23:30 appearance at Kings this has been the preferred option nine times.
Ps the descents on day1 are friendly, it's day2 where they can be interesting.
Post by: mattc on 04 May, 2016, 12:08:26 pm
I have a B&B booked at Dollgellau but in the absence of someone with balls in charge of the brakes I don't think I'll be fast enough to make use of it.
:o
;D
Post by: adam w on 07 May, 2016, 04:18:44 pm
Post by: Somnolent on 07 May, 2016, 05:49:12 pm
Is there really a 24hr garage in Newtown?;D
Not a concern to me, or indeed to most, who'll be using the very excellent facilities of the Aberhafesp control.
Post by: Phil W on 07 May, 2016, 05:59:42 pm
Post by: iddu on 07 May, 2016, 06:47:04 pm
Is there really a 24hr garage in Newtown?
Dunno - but there's certainly a 24h Macdonalds, for indoor warmth on a braasic night...
Post by: Phil W on 07 May, 2016, 07:15:00 pm
Is there really a 24hr garage in Newtown?
Why not stop at the community centre control a few km back up the road with food laid on?
Post by: adam w on 07 May, 2016, 09:28:27 pm
Organiser has advised in his email, that said control may not necessarily be open to the faster riders... Unfair on volunteers etc. I remember seeing Mark R snoring in the corner last year about half 1 in the morning.... I can understand this!Is there really a 24hr garage in Newtown?
Why not stop at the community centre control a few km back up the road with food laid on?
Anyway, this is why... I must call the garage to find out if it will be open all night
Post by: jamesld8 on 08 May, 2016, 06:45:53 am
Looking forward to joining last weekend's BC400 to the Llanfair-PG 400 via the BCM 600. Been through routesheet and matched to map now. Just hope it's warmer than last w/e.
not looking too warm now :( Met Office showing 2-12 c during day with a northerly wind; summer has made but a brief visit this week. Note to self to pack winter clothing :thumbsup:
Post by: Phil W on 08 May, 2016, 09:28:08 am
Looking forward to joining last weekend's BC400 to the Llanfair-PG 400 via the BCM 600. Been through routesheet and matched to map now. Just hope it's warmer than last w/e.
not looking too warm now :( Met Office showing 2-12 c during day with a northerly wind; summer has made but a brief visit this week. Note to self to pack winter clothing :thumbsup:
Bugger, I was hoping to wear summer kit next weekend. Let's hope the winds change direction. A southerly as we head north, then dropping as the sun sets for the return.
Post by: BlackSheep on 08 May, 2016, 11:47:45 am
The Tesco garage at Newtown is 24 hr, but I think it's automated self-service from late evening on Saturday and during the early hours of Sunday morning. Can't think you'll get there before then, mainly because you would have also missed the control people at King's YHA (Dolgellau).
There's loads of ATMs in the centre of Newtown, so that should get you proof of passage.
If you're planning on thrashing through the ride (and judging from your performance on the BC4 - there's no reason why you couldn't), you better make sure your back pockets are well stocked, as you're unlikely to find anywhere open selling/serving food between Bedgellert and Llandrindod Wells.
As to the Aberhafesp control being open, there were people there last year from Saturday evening, so I presume (I know, that's always dangerous) there will be people there this year.
Post by: U.N.Dulates on 08 May, 2016, 03:13:00 pm
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 08 May, 2016, 04:57:45 pm
The BP garage on the A483 (just N of the junction with the A489) is 24hr and generally lets folk inside late at night - veterans of Sheila Simpson's now defunct Plains 400 and Cambrian 600 will remember it. The Newtown MacDonalds is drive through only (unless it's changed in the last couple of years) after 11pm.There has been a move to McDs opening more places 24 hours. The link below shows the times and the only way I have found of knowing is to ring up and ask. The web site shows 24 hours on Friday and Saturday night, but is not explicit on sitting down.
BB
http://www.mcdonalds.co.uk/ukhome/Restaurants/restaurant_locator.html?country=uk&pageNo=1&postalCode=SY161DG&primaryCity=NEWTOWN&src=www.mcdonalds.co.uk&latitude=52.51426&longitude=-3.30959&method=googlesearchLocation&language=en (http://www.mcdonalds.co.uk/ukhome/Restaurants/restaurant_locator.html?country=uk&pageNo=1&postalCode=SY161DG&primaryCity=NEWTOWN&src=www.mcdonalds.co.uk&latitude=52.51426&longitude=-3.30959&method=googlesearchLocation&language=en)
Post by: Smeth on 08 May, 2016, 05:05:48 pm
Post by: mattc on 08 May, 2016, 07:14:06 pm
Probably - see Mr Smeth's post!
( It was a very nice experience for a very tired Iddu+MattC. All the diners were just chilled out, not even any lycra-based banter. Marked contrast with the rabble in the town-centre - I was described as a deep-sea diver. The cheek! )
Post by: Hot Flatus on 09 May, 2016, 01:18:31 pm
Post by: jamesld8 on 09 May, 2016, 03:05:36 pm
The forecast is looking ideal next weekend. Warm but not hot. No rain. Mild headwind on outbound, tailwind just when you need it on return.
thought you didn`t believe in w/e forecasts until Thursday ;D ---do ideal conditions indicate you`ll be riding ?
Seriously though I`m looking forwards to a ride not beset by horrid winds / rain / sleet / hail / freezing temps or combinations various of these !!
Post by: Hot Flatus on 09 May, 2016, 03:55:32 pm
The forecast is looking ideal next weekend. Warm but not hot. No rain. Mild headwind on outbound, tailwind just when you need it on return.
thought you didn`t believe in w/e forecasts until Thursday ;D ---do ideal conditions indicate you`ll be riding ?
I won't be riding the BCM.
However, I am doing a diy600 next weekend which has controls on the BCM route so I expect I see some of the riders on my way up and back. Not sure what time I'll be setting off Saturday, and I certainly won't be leaving Dolgellau on Sunday morning before 8.30am.
Post by: vorsprung on 09 May, 2016, 09:33:24 pm
The forecast is looking ideal next weekend. Warm but not hot. No rain. Mild headwind on outbound, tailwind just when you need it on return.
thought you didn`t believe in w/e forecasts until Thursday ;D ---do ideal conditions indicate you`ll be riding ?
I won't be riding the BCM.
However, I am doing a diy600 next weekend which has controls on the BCM route so I expect I see some of the riders on my way up and back. Not sure what time I'll be setting off Saturday, and I certainly won't be leaving Dolgellau on Sunday morning before 8.30am.
OTOH I am doing the Mae Mr Pickwick yn mynd i chwilio am ddreigiau a chwedlau. (clasurol) instead of the BCM
I'm not riding the weekend of the 14th at all. Given the often random weather this is probably a good thing.
Maybe I'll never do the BCM again
Post by: raymondoyo on 10 May, 2016, 11:38:39 am
I have a booking for one plus bike on the Sunday 5.09pm from Chepstow to London which is available should anyone else need it. Details below. Happily I now have a lift back.
Journey details:
Ticket type: Advance (Standard Class) – valid only for the selected journey
Price: £24.50
Route:
5.09pm - 5.39pm Chepstow (platform 2) - Gloucester (platform4) (seats cannot be booked on this journey, please occupy any available seat)
5.49pm - 7.42pm Gloucester (platform 2) – London Paddington (platform 4). Bicycle space is booked
Post by: Hot Flatus on 10 May, 2016, 07:01:16 pm
Post by: jamesld8 on 10 May, 2016, 07:41:27 pm
Forecast for Saturday is perfect. Sunday looks a bit cloudy.
prefer it warmer though especially at night (as unlike some I`ll be in a bivvy bag not a 4**** hotel with gold plated taps ;) ......
but yes overall looks very agreeable cf Elenydd and Cambrian 200 which were dire conditions :(
Post by: Hot Flatus on 10 May, 2016, 08:11:36 pm
Post by: Phil W on 10 May, 2016, 08:16:00 pm
Post by: jamesld8 on 10 May, 2016, 09:00:57 pm
Looks similar forecast temp range to Brevet Cymru 400. Very cold night with some putting 6 layers on for that. The views of the stars was mesmerising. Think I'll bring my Primaloft gilet for overnight. It does look a dry forecast which is nice.
merino baselayer + merino jersey + windblock jacket for me---but Primaloft is excellent too :thumbsup:
Post by: jamesld8 on 10 May, 2016, 09:03:15 pm
I'm slumming it in a farm B&B. They don't do flat whites, I've checked :o
noble contribution to farming diversification and local economy there :thumbsup:
Post by: BlackSheep on 10 May, 2016, 09:08:07 pm
I'm slumming it in a farm B&B. They don't do flat whites, I've checked :o
Kippers for brekkie? Or grey mullet and capers?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 10 May, 2016, 09:19:00 pm
Post by: Gadget on 11 May, 2016, 06:22:31 pm
Post by: caerau on 11 May, 2016, 06:24:37 pm
(is not looking forward to the commute home tonight)
Post by: vistaed on 11 May, 2016, 06:34:07 pm
If you see someone riding with brand new cycling shoes- that'll be me!And if you see someone on a brand new (less than 15 miles) flat bar commuting bike, that will be me. Nothing like a 600km to break bike in :-\
Post by: Phil W on 11 May, 2016, 06:44:24 pm
Post by: Jasmine on 11 May, 2016, 07:57:03 pm
Post by: BlackSheep on 11 May, 2016, 08:14:37 pm
............ Better get my shit together for Saturday I suppose :facepalm:
Isn't this a banned substance :demon:
Post by: Whitedown Man on 11 May, 2016, 08:33:26 pm
Post by: Somnolent on 11 May, 2016, 10:00:59 pm
Sleep ration at Kings could be of the order of 10 minutes !
Post by: BlackSheep on 11 May, 2016, 10:48:02 pm
The email about parking mentions 200.
Sleep ration at Kings could be of the order of 10 minutes !
You could always hire a bed at the hostel about 1km before Kings!
http://hostelcritic.com/listings/view/Caban-Cader-Idris-Bunkhouse
Post by: hippy on 11 May, 2016, 11:10:13 pm
Post by: Whitedown Man on 12 May, 2016, 05:24:20 am
I'll be taking my new sleep kit and either testing it or riding straight through and using it for ballast alone so there's only 199 people you need to worry about sleeping with...The sun will be up by the time I get to Kings, so 198
Post by: jamesld8 on 12 May, 2016, 06:14:26 am
Post by: fussballclub on 12 May, 2016, 07:08:34 am
I'll be taking my new sleep kit and either testing it or riding straight through and using it for ballast alone so there's only 199 people you need to worry about sleeping with...
But what about the cake. Will you save some for the others?
Post by: Clemo on 12 May, 2016, 09:21:03 am
Post by: hippy on 12 May, 2016, 09:39:59 am
197 as I`m using bivvibag etc in YH grounds :thumbsup:
Do you mind me asking, what does you bivvy kit consist of for sleeping in Welsh temps?
I froze when I tested just my bivvy in my cycling kit during a recent ride (it was 0degC) but I now have a down bag, down jacket and lighter sleeping bag cover to try out.
I've got a yoga mat too that I was going to cut down but I've not got around to it yet and not sure I can be bothered carrying it.
Post by: hippy on 12 May, 2016, 09:52:38 am
I'll be taking my new sleep kit and either testing it or riding straight through and using it for ballast alone so there's only 199 people you need to worry about sleeping with...But what about the cake. Will you save some for the others?
My mother brought me up to be very polite so I never take the last piece.
No, instead, I take the whole cake. That way no one knows they've missed out.
Mwuahahahahahaaaaaa
Post by: Assasin on 12 May, 2016, 12:07:39 pm
I'll be doing the Beast route this weekend dossing where I can with just more clothes on and carrying on when it gets cold.
I see you are up for the easy option !
Post by: hippy on 12 May, 2016, 12:53:06 pm
Hippy,
I'll be doing the Beast route this weekend dossing where I can with just more clothes on and carrying on when it gets cold.
I see you are up for the easy option !
Easy option? You mean BCM or do you mean taking sleeping kit along for the ride?
I need to test my sleeping kit before TCR because even I will need to sleep during those 2 weeks and even if I don't decide to use it, it's a good idea to get used to the handling of the bike when it's loaded up.
Anyway, I already froze half to death on your Beast helper ride! :P
Post by: Frank9755 on 12 May, 2016, 01:33:52 pm
Another with a Bivvi bag here, I'm hoping to get further than Kings on the way back before I need to use it.
The problem with that is that heading inland is likely to be colder through night than by the coast.
I can't decide what to do now as I'd be interested in testing sleeping kit at 5 degrees, which it might be near to Kings, but I don't really want to test it at 1 or 0 degrees! I'll keep an eye on the forecast and make a call.
Post by: Frank9755 on 12 May, 2016, 01:36:11 pm
197 as I`m using bivvibag etc in YH grounds :thumbsup:
Do you mind me asking, what does you bivvy kit consist of for sleeping in Welsh temps?
I froze when I tested just my bivvy in my cycling kit during a recent ride (it was 0degC) but I now have a down bag, down jacket and lighter sleeping bag cover to try out.
I've got a yoga mat too that I was going to cut down but I've not got around to it yet and not sure I can be bothered carrying it.
My kit is Alpkit bivvy bag, silk liner, down sleeveless jacket + a sheet of bubblewrap. I reckon that will be ok if its chilly but not if it is near freezing.
Post by: jamesld8 on 12 May, 2016, 01:49:40 pm
This year I`m taking a SnugPack 2 / 3 season Primaloft sleeping bag as it looks to be a bit colder at night + thermarest + larger bivvibag courtesy Bag Drop van ;D.
Post by: catswiskas on 12 May, 2016, 03:56:37 pm
Secondly, we note Phil W is hoping to wear summer kit for the event - we hope everyone remembers that they're going to be riding through the mountains of Snowdonia this weekend. As at time of writing (lunchtime Thursday), the overnight temperatures predicted for Snowdonia are 2 degrees C in late evening, 1 degree C overnight and it isn't expected to come above 4 degrees C till after 6.00 am Sunday. We recommend that everyone brings extra layers. The weather can change very quickly from what is forecast too. Those foil Emergency Blankets are quite handy to stuff down a jersey in the event of getting really cold. Available from Wilko at 75p each and other outlets are available.
Finally, we've emailed everyone with details of parking in Chepstow. We've had complaints about riders on previous events parking inconsiderately and annoying the neighbours. Please check your email if you're riding this weekend.
THANKYOU!
Post by: zigzag on 12 May, 2016, 04:37:09 pm
Post by: Phil W on 12 May, 2016, 05:14:58 pm
Post by: Frank9755 on 12 May, 2016, 05:41:53 pm
Post by: Phil W on 12 May, 2016, 05:52:16 pm
Unless the temperatures kick up a bit from current forecasts I'll be in cool weather kit with longs during the day. That makes it easier as I won't have to find a way to carry too much extra kit.
Since I'm driving down I'll have different clothing options with me and make a final decision late Friday afternoon.
Post by: jamesld8 on 12 May, 2016, 07:33:02 pm
Unless the temperatures kick up a bit from current forecasts I'll be in cool weather kit with longs during the day. That makes it easier as I won't have to find a way to carry too much extra kit.
Since I'm driving down I'll have different clothing options with me and make a final decision late Friday afternoon.
I`m avoiding decisions like that :facepalm: by covering all bases in what I`m carrying ;D So hopefully with what I set off in and carry will cover all weather from 0c thro` to +17c , bit weighty in luggage (4kg all in and food extra ) but acceptable (to me maybe not racing whippets)
Post by: Phil W on 12 May, 2016, 09:12:40 pm
Unless the temperatures kick up a bit from current forecasts I'll be in cool weather kit with longs during the day. That makes it easier as I won't have to find a way to carry too much extra kit.
Since I'm driving down I'll have different clothing options with me and make a final decision late Friday afternoon.
I might be lazy and just opt for the bag drop for the extra warm stuff. Pick it up at kings, ride wearing it, return to kings, rest, then leave it behind and get by in the early morning with laughter layers and arm warmers. We will see, it's all packed now anyway with a LEL bag in case I decide on bag drop.
I`m avoiding decisions like that :facepalm: by covering all bases in what I`m carrying ;D So hopefully with what I set off in and carry will cover all weather from 0c thro` to +17c , bit weighty in luggage (4kg all in and food extra ) but acceptable (to me maybe not racing whippets)
Post by: Somnolent on 12 May, 2016, 10:12:37 pm
I might be lazy and just opt for the bag drop for the extra warm stuff. Pick it up at kings, ride wearing it, return to kings, rest, then leave it behind and get by in the early morning with laughter layers and arm warmers. We will see, it's all packed now anyway with a LEL bag in case I decide on bag drop.Which colour LEL bag are you using?
I was thinking along similar lines but would choose a different colour ideally so as to minimise finding time at King's
Post by: Phil W on 12 May, 2016, 11:54:38 pm
I might be lazy and just opt for the bag drop for the extra warm stuff. Pick it up at kings, ride wearing it, return to kings, rest, then leave it behind and get by in the early morning with laughter layers and arm warmers. We will see, it's all packed now anyway with a LEL bag in case I decide on bag drop.Which colour LEL bag are you using?
I was thinking along similar lines but would choose a different colour ideally so as to minimise finding time at King's
My Market Rasen one, so yellow,
Post by: hippy on 13 May, 2016, 10:08:56 am
197 as I`m using bivvibag etc in YH grounds :thumbsup:Do you mind me asking, what does you bivvy kit consist of for sleeping in Welsh temps?
My kit is Alpkit bivvy bag, silk liner, down sleeveless jacket + a sheet of bubblewrap. I reckon that will be ok if its chilly but not if it is near freezing.
No sleeping bag? I'm still in two minds about what to take. Now I'm thinking I should've got a lighter synth bag to deal with the moisture.
Do you pack the liner in the bivvy beforehand or stuff it in when you set it up? I find it tricky getting everything together while hopping around a field trying not to get anything wet :)
Post by: Frank9755 on 13 May, 2016, 12:05:18 pm
No sleeping bag? I'm still in two minds about what to take. Now I'm thinking I should've got a lighter synth bag to deal with the moisture.
Do you pack the liner in the bivvy beforehand or stuff it in when you set it up? I find it tricky getting everything together while hopping around a field trying not to get anything wet :)
Not planning to take one for TCR. I tend to be pretty warm when I'm sleeping and usually find sleeping bags too hot when others are cold.
Looking at weather for this weekend, the forecast is now for colder nights, down to 0/1 degrees. I would want a sleeping bag for that, so I think I'll revert to the original plan and either crash at Kings with the multitudes (getting there early for first use of the sheets) or ride through if I'm feeling good.
I've never used the bivvy bag so not worked out what to do with the hopping in the wet field challenges! It was a bit of a rushed purchase and I'll probably end up getting a different one as I'd prefer to have a zip, so I can unzip when too warm in the night. I expect I would just leave the liner in the bivvy bag once I'd used it.
Post by: zigzag on 13 May, 2016, 12:27:50 pm
Post by: hippy on 13 May, 2016, 12:31:40 pm
I will try and pack ALL my kit and then see what fits in my saddle pack. BCM is basically a testing ground for TCR at the moment so what the hell, some or all of my choices are bound to go wrong! :)
Post by: jamesld8 on 13 May, 2016, 01:06:17 pm
for the faster lot king's yh is too early to sleep at ~10pm; it's worth going to the next control and sleep from 1-ish am
what !!! you faster guys must be shifting ---I guess you`ll be part of the grupettos I`ve noted in previous year coming back from Menai whilst I`m still way short of halfway at Penrhyndeudraeth :(
Post by: hippy on 13 May, 2016, 01:12:19 pm
Fast ride + tested kit + don't miss out on control feeds = winning!
Post by: tonyh on 13 May, 2016, 02:18:33 pm
for the faster lot king's yh is too early to sleep at ~10pm; it's worth going to the next control and sleep from 1-ish am
what !!! you faster guys must be shifting ---I guess you`ll be part of the grupettos I`ve noted in previous year coming back from Menai whilst I`m still way short of halfway at Penrhyndeudraeth :(
All the fast riders (including jamesld8 if he were riding) had gone south through the Penrhyn section before I got there on my way north!
Post by: Somnolent on 13 May, 2016, 03:31:29 pm
Post by: catswiskas on 13 May, 2016, 04:29:58 pm
We have noted that some people plan to tag onto the event, without entering formally or paying. They will NOT be permitted to use the facilities at Kings, Menai, Aberhafesp or Llandrindod Wells.
Please note, anyone tagging along with a group, who is not formally registered and paid up for the event, will be riding on their own insurance.
If you're planning to ride anything that isn't a standard roadbike, with standard kit, please make sure you are carrying spares for anything that might break / need replacing en route. There are very few facilities open in mid wales at night. There are bike shops along the route, but very few open on Sundays and none are open after 5pm on Saturday. There is a bike shop in Dolgellau that is open on Sunday from 10 - 4.
Off to set up the start...
Post by: Frank9755 on 13 May, 2016, 10:04:32 pm
Difficult decision but my knee is a bit iffy and I don't want to risk aggravating it. And work is a bit busy so it will be helpful to be fresh on Monday. I hope everyone enjoys the sunshine!
Post by: Graeme on 13 May, 2016, 10:07:44 pm
Post by: Diesel on 13 May, 2016, 10:49:20 pm
Have a wonderful weekend everyone!
Thanks Graeme, I reread the write up on your blog in preparation! Have a good weekend
Post by: Ivan on 14 May, 2016, 06:55:35 am
Post by: Graeme on 14 May, 2016, 07:45:30 am
Live tracking of a few of the riders is available here: http://frrt.org/bcm16/
:thumbsup:
Post by: Ivan on 14 May, 2016, 09:19:51 am
Live tracking of a few of the riders is available here: http://frrt.org/bcm16/
My routing server has just fallen over, currently on the Poole train to ride Porkers perm with Jonah and Anthony, have restarted it but service might be a bit patchy through Wessex...
Post by: L CC on 14 May, 2016, 12:05:38 pm
Post by: Hot Flatus on 14 May, 2016, 05:28:42 pm
Post by: mattc on 14 May, 2016, 06:34:40 pm
Post by: vorsprung on 14 May, 2016, 07:49:58 pm
Please note this event is full and has been for several weeks...there will be NO on the line entries - we haven't the capacity in Kings / elsewhere.
We have noted that some people plan to tag onto the event, without entering formally or paying. They will NOT be permitted to use the facilities at Kings, Menai, Aberhafesp or Llandrindod Wells.
Please note, anyone tagging along with a group, who is not formally registered and paid up for the event, will be riding on their own insurance.
I've taken the simple step of entering a completely different event on a different day. I'll have to change my rotas but hey. Why on earth anyone would try and ride without entering properly is beyond me
Post by: rogerzilla on 14 May, 2016, 09:12:46 pm
I'm sitting outside a cafe in Llandiloes eating salad & applying suncreamThat place REALLY needs an extra "d" in its name.
Post by: rabbit on 15 May, 2016, 05:28:38 am
Post by: JonB on 15 May, 2016, 08:16:14 am
I managed to tweak the remaining spokes so the wheel would turn past the mudguard and tentatively set off back to Rhyader where I knew there was a bike shop. Got there okay and he had one wheel (open pro with ultegra hub) so I bought it. Looked at the brevet card and in theory might have been able to get Dolgellau by 9:00 but it would have been such a struggle against the time for the rest of the ride and probably no sleep which didn't appeal ... decided to pack, I had some food and then rode home to Bristol and got back at 10:00 ish. Now Sunday Morning, looking at the weather and feeling gutted I'm not out there (but also pleased it didn't happen on the long night stretch).
Post by: vorsprung on 15 May, 2016, 09:49:11 am
Didn't work out for me ... just started one of the climbs on the road out of Llanidloes and I heard a loud crack, a chunk of the flange on the drive side rear hub had broken away with 3 spokes now free floating :'( Started to walk back to the town to see if there was a bike shop and actually got a lift back with a guy who was part of the Rapha team, he was going around getting pictures. I did have a whiff of hope when I asked this guy in some kind of outward bound shop if he had a wheel but he had assumed that I had meant tyre.
I managed to tweak the remaining spokes so the wheel would turn past the mudguard and tentatively set off back to Rhyader where I knew there was a bike shop. Got there okay and he had one wheel (open pro with ultegra hub) so I bought it. Looked at the brevet card and in theory might have been able to get Dolgellau by 9:00 but it would have been such a struggle against the time for the rest of the ride and probably no sleep which didn't appeal ... decided to pack, I had some food and then rode home to Bristol and got back at 10:00 ish. Now Sunday Morning, looking at the weather and feeling gutted I'm not out there (but also pleased it didn't happen on the long night stretch).
On the plus side you did a few miles on a nice sunny day and you have a great story
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 15 May, 2016, 09:58:39 am
The freehub on HK's Mavic wheel is failing (as they do; a crappy design). Still, she'll get to the finish (noisily) and we can decide whether to rebuild the freehub when I get back from Turkey or to replace the wheel with another tired Mavic wheel in the shed.
Post by: duracellbunnyonabike on 15 May, 2016, 12:01:06 pm
Post by: Graeme on 15 May, 2016, 01:35:23 pm
That was epic! Stunning scenery (I wish I could live in Wales), very nice support/service at stops and beautiful daytime weather. I wanted to ride through the night but was ill-prepared. Not enough/ineffective layers meant frozen for 8 hours. Frozen hands = braking/shifting became a lottery; frozen legs = no power, brain freeze/confusion = navigation error adding about 25k of hills, sheep and stone filled lanes. Live and learn ;-) I'll be back next year better prepared hopefully.
Ossum! Chapeau!
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 15 May, 2016, 10:40:02 pm
Great organisation and people helping. Richie has got this sorted.
I will start a discussion on the route changes -
1. I am a big fan of the changes to day 1. Does make the day harder overall, but not in a silly way. So the third section from Llanidoes to King YH is the hardest section of the ride.
2. Day 2 I would have preferred the old day 2. The section near Hereford gives the ride variety. If the intention of the change was to avoid the traffic in the Wye Valley, they was lots on the A470 and A40, with boy racers and lats of large motor cycle groups.
3. The new cafe stops are all fab.
BB
Post by: Flatlander on 16 May, 2016, 12:02:09 am
Well that was a grand two days out. Finished at 5:15pm and when the ride is validated it will be 10 consecutive SR so I will then be ULTRA. Just to stop me gloating too much met up with Swiss Hat and realised he had done (at least) 100,000 km in audax. So I have a long way to go.
Great organisation and people helping. Richie has got this sorted.
I will start a discussion on the route changes -
1. I am a big fan of the changes to day 1. Does make the day harder overall, but not in a silly way. So the third section from Llanidoes to King YH is the hardest section of the ride.
2. Day 2 I would have preferred the old day 2. The section near Hereford gives the ride variety. If the intention of the change was to avoid the traffic in the Wye Valley, they was lots on the A470 and A40, with boy racers and lats of large motor cycle groups.
3. The new cafe stops are all fab.
BB
Unfortunately I couldn't ride this year. Its a shame the new Llandloes control makes Elan out of bounds, and I would certainly prefer Knighton and Woebley to a main road bash. The Wye approach to Chepstow is a little busy at times but it is scenic. The Staylittle road looks exciting though and look forward to that in future years.
A major glitch in the route sheet needs sorting out. Stage 2 "153.0 left onto B4518 "should really be "135.0 left ...". Until that point the route sheet is within a few Km of the interweb. After that it is 18Km over. I suspect the route is short as others have mentioned but most riders would have done sufficient to make up the difference due to detours intentional or otherwise.
Post by: simonp on 16 May, 2016, 12:12:30 am
Commiserations to those who had mechanicals etc. Well done all the finishers. Weather's been really nice this weekend.
Post by: bikey-mikey on 16 May, 2016, 08:17:29 am
Back at Kings I decided to wait out the cold by finding a chair in the drop bag room, and even got maybe an hour's sleep...
However I got cold hands on the Sunday daylight (just) ride to Aberhafesp, which got so bad, even with three layers on my hands, that I had to resort to the old 'rock lizard' trick, TWICE.. by which I mean finding a sheltered spot in the sunshine, stopping, and just letting the sun warm me up. One brill spot was a right angled retaining wall that created a parking spot and entrance to something or other, which was made of gabions (wire baskets full of pebbles) - the resultant 90 degree sun trap worked really well..
Only real issue to raise was the hordes of stupid, reckless, lawless, self-centred, noisy, juvenilely pathetic, mostly pot bellied, f@cking arsehole motorised two wheel morons, who time after time came fractions away from killing me and indeed whole groups of us, screaming round corners on a knife edge, at speeds clearly approaching 100 mph, with me or whole groups of us right on the outside tangent line where the missile would fly, and me knowing that any stone or pothole or invisible oil spill, or overconfidence in ability, could lead to utter disaster and carnage... If I wasn't afraid they'd take some of us with them I'd say "F@ck off and die"...... Didn't we use to have a police force??
All the controls were good, and some thanks to all the helpers - too many to remember them all, but names I can name include Simon King, a recent riding buddy, seen at Kings (not actually his place though), Chris Smith also at Kings, scattering food about with much precision, (hey Chris, you still owe me a hot pudding!), Jasmine Sharp, running Menai Bridge control with utter efficiency (and HOT rice pudding), Mr Blacksheep running Aberhasefp, and also running a good line in toilet roll delivery as I recall, (the kitchen at Aberhasepf, with HOT bacon sarnies with beans and hot tinned tomatoes run by Siobhan Cox, whose hubby Andy was out riding...) and of course Ritchie and family all over the place...
Post by: Clemo on 16 May, 2016, 08:39:36 am
I was amazed at the guy from Audax Club Hackney who broke his frame just before Rhayaeder (how ever you spell it) and as it was a steel frame he got it welded back together in a garage in town and carried on! Well played that man.
The descent into Mach was the best bit I road I have ever seen it was breath taking, it was like a little ribbon of tarmac held on a knife edge, simply wonderful.
Thannks to all of the helpers, Richie and family it was a wonderful event. :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Anyway a short video of Barmouth Bridge
https://youtu.be/zTuw44Hq8fI
Post by: PAC on 16 May, 2016, 08:58:02 am
Well that was a grand two days out. Finished at 5:15pm and when the ride is validated it will be 10 consecutive SR so I will then be ULTRA. Just to stop me gloating too much met up with Swiss Hat and realised he had done (at least) 100,000 km in audax. So I have a long way to go.Great stuff :thumbsup: I'm looking forward to giving the BCM a go at some point in the future ;D
Great organisation and people helping. Richie has got this sorted.
I will start a discussion on the route changes -
1. I am a big fan of the changes to day 1. Does make the day harder overall, but not in a silly way. So the third section from Llanidoes to King YH is the hardest section of the ride.
2. Day 2 I would have preferred the old day 2. The section near Hereford gives the ride variety. If the intention of the change was to avoid the traffic in the Wye Valley, they was lots on the A470 and A40, with boy racers and lats of large motor cycle groups.
3. The new cafe stops are all fab.
BB
Post by: Chris F.cc on 16 May, 2016, 09:17:59 am
Who knew it was so beautiful?
Why have they been keeping it such a secret?
Post by: Whitedown Man on 16 May, 2016, 09:21:22 am
But boy, so so hard - took me right to my limit. The only way I could keep within the cutoffs was to ride through the night and the penultimate climb, out of Abergavenny, almost broke me. I loved it, really loved it, but not sure I'll be back - a man's got to know his limitations.
Post by: Smeth on 16 May, 2016, 09:49:32 am
My first proper ride in Wales.
Who knew it was so beautiful?
Why have they been keeping it such a secret?
It's the company you keep dear boy.... not that an occasional view of me in the distance enhances the view. Seriously good company, that Staylittle to Forge bit though.... The stuff of dreams. Thanks to Ritchie and team.
Post by: Somnolent on 16 May, 2016, 11:00:55 am
I will start a discussion on the route changes -
1. I am a big fan of the changes to day 1. Does make the day harder overall, but not in a silly way. So the third section from Llanidoes to King YH is the hardest section of the ride.
2. Day 2 I would have preferred the old day 2. The section near Hereford gives the ride variety. If the intention of the change was to avoid the traffic in the Wye Valley, they was lots on the A470 and A40, with boy racers and lats of large motor cycle groups.
3. The new cafe stops are all fab.
BB
Thoroughly enjoyed the variation on NCN8 through Hafren forest (suggested by Jamesld8 on the other thread)
The extra distance (to take the total to 601km) more than compensated by a lack of anything resembling a chevron, less cars than there were cattle grids (six I think), no motorbikes at all, the sight of an osprey's nest from the observatory at the end of Llyin Clywedog. :thumbsup:
Also a thumbs up for that stretch of the A483 dropping down to and following the River Ithon - not the most spectacular scenery of the ride, but 20 km of good tarmac, with a continuous and very very gradual descent, little traffic, and wide enough that even the motorbikes were not tempted to play silly buggers = 45 minutes of delightfully easy progress.
Not route related: but my progress slowed to a crawl after Llandrindod Wells. I've been fortunate to avoid "digestive" issues over most of my audax career - this was obviously payback time, and numerous "pauses" were required while the issues were dealt with.
Post by: GPS on 16 May, 2016, 11:28:27 am
Great weather, a great route and great company. I doubt it could've been better.
Huge thanks to Ritchie and all his many helpers - all your hard work was much appreciated.
As Mikey pointed out - the end was soured rather by so many moronic bikers who clearly don't care about anyone else. On the outward leg, I did wonder why there were so many yellow road signs encouraging motorcyclists to ride safely. That question was answered on the Sunday afternoon :-(
I'm not letting that detract from my memories of a great 600 though. The sun setting over Snowdonia and rising on the stage between Kings and Aberhafesp, and the road from Llanidloes to Machynlleth were my highlights ... but the whole ride was marvellous.
This was my first BCM, but hopefully won't be my last. I can't imagine any future attempts could surpass it for enjoyment though.
Post by: adam w on 16 May, 2016, 11:52:17 am
Here is the video I made, enjoy the memories
https://youtu.be/vyotlUgS8FM
Post by: HK on 16 May, 2016, 12:08:33 pm
Well that was a grand two days out. Finished at 5:15pm and when the ride is validated it will be 10 consecutive SR so I will then be ULTRA. Just to stop me gloating too much met up with Swiss Hat and realised he had done (at least) 100,000 km in audax. So I have a long way to go.
BB
You also rode briefly with two other 100,000 plus Km of brevets as well; one was a girlie.
Post by: marcusjb on 16 May, 2016, 12:10:29 pm
Not a good time to be on the roads I can imagine.
Post by: duracellbunnyonabike on 16 May, 2016, 12:32:33 pm
Here is the video I made, enjoy the memories
https://youtu.be/vyotlUgS8FM
"This video is restricted. Try signing in with a Google Apps account." Would love to see your video. Any chance you can remove the restrictions. I have a google account. But not sure where to find google apps
Post by: vistaed on 16 May, 2016, 01:15:03 pm
Post by: HK on 16 May, 2016, 01:32:45 pm
Brilliant to hear that you finished and in great company. Was great to meet you and have a chat for a handful of the 600km. :thumbsup:
Don't tell everyone about your sleeping arrangements- you'll find it jam packed next time!
Post by: jamesld8 on 16 May, 2016, 01:47:52 pm
Yes it was very beautiful on a superb sunny day--credit in first place though to DR who suggested it to me.
Great ride, but DNF`d at Penrhyn rather than complete to Menai. Still clocked up 530km and a few more lessons learnt !
Overall I thought outward stage with Llani was improvement but return after Newtown, sorry but far too busy not only with motor bikers but also swarms of fools using it as a race test track for their revved up noisy hot hatchbacks.
>> a combination of the new outward leg + old Weobley return would be pretty darn good. :thumbsup:
Hope everyone returned safely; given rider numbers it`s almost a 1 million km w/e riding in this event !
Post by: Smeth on 16 May, 2016, 02:22:24 pm
Didn't work out for me ... just started one of the climbs on the road out of Llanidloes and I heard a loud crack, a chunk of the flange on the drive side rear hub had broken away with 3 spokes now free floating :'(
Must have passed you as we hurtled down to the dam. Too fast for even the customary "okay"? Audacious persistence. Hats off.
Post by: Gadget on 16 May, 2016, 02:23:42 pm
Brad, Agi, Robert, Andrew and new friend Jig. Joss arrived a little later- well done too. Great to see old friends like Lindsey and Grant (GPS)
Andrew Preston was my constant companion- he kept me sane and motivated all of the way.
Funniest thing for me, I saw a cyclist walking down hill, which is odd so I stopped and asked if he was Ok- in a broad welsh accent he said yes, down hill was too easy so he was walking, fair enough.
Post by: Bairdy on 16 May, 2016, 03:21:00 pm
I was a bit too casual northbound and spent too much time stopped, I seem prone to this on longer rides.
The return from Menai is always a bastard and this one was a cold bastard, down to .5C on my Garmin but I was O.K. I'm luck enough to have a good layer of under skin insulation. I had two layers in my bag that I didn't need to use.
Managed an hour of kip at Kings and was on the road at 6.30am and caught just outside Dolgellau by fellow ACBer NeilV and we rode to Chepstow together.
The ride to Aberhasepf was really beautiful and I love the tranquil vibe of that control.
After the long climb out of Newtown it got progressively busier with the motorbikes and boy racers as mention up thread, it was a long heads down stretch on A roads.
We came across an old boy descending into Crickhowell who had a hand written sign attached to his faded saddle bag, it read something like "84 year old geriatric cyclist, grumpier and slower by the day". We chatted to him and he was not at all grumpy, very jovial and out riding an 80 miler. I should have taken a photo of him, he was mint!
We also saw a cyclist walking downhill on this descent who seemed to be O.K when asked. I wonder if this was Gadget's cyclist?
We had an incident with a trio of motorbikes just approaching Usk, the second one coming in for a very close, fast pass. It was intentional as there was nothing else at all on the road.
I then spent the last 20km worrying about my bowels, at Bulwark I let go but it was a false alarm.
On reflection I should have hit the gamble button and just farted on the last big climb as it was quite a battle holding it in but there's nothing worse than a follow through on a bike ride eh Flatus? ;D
Hats off to Ritchie and helpers, you did a great job of taking care of us.
Post by: JonB on 16 May, 2016, 03:24:56 pm
Didn't work out for me ... just started one of the climbs on the road out of Llanidloes and I heard a loud crack, a chunk of the flange on the drive side rear hub had broken away with 3 spokes now free floating :'(
Must have passed you as we hurtled down to the dam. Too fast for even the customary "okay"? Audacious persistence. Hats off.
Yes, it was quite striking to see the speed that people were coming down at (as I had done a few minutes previously). People were checking I was okay and I tried to convey some kind of 'yes, well no, but keep going' kind of response ... definitely want to revisit that section of road.
Post by: adam w on 16 May, 2016, 03:52:06 pm
Oh no, i'm sorry it didn't work, it should be ok? how about another youtube link? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vyotlUgS8FM
Here is the video I made, enjoy the memories
https://youtu.be/vyotlUgS8FM
"This video is restricted. Try signing in with a Google Apps account." Would love to see your video. Any chance you can remove the restrictions. I have a google account. But not sure where to find google apps
Post by: duracellbunnyonabike on 16 May, 2016, 03:56:54 pm
Oh no, i'm sorry it didn't work, it should be ok? how about another youtube link? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vyotlUgS8FM
Here is the video I made, enjoy the memories
https://youtu.be/vyotlUgS8FM
"This video is restricted. Try signing in with a Google Apps account." Would love to see your video. Any chance you can remove the restrictions. I have a google account. But not sure where to find google apps
hmm same problem:-( Is it just me? Anyone else managed to access the video?
Post by: adam w on 16 May, 2016, 03:58:40 pm
Post by: adam w on 16 May, 2016, 03:59:02 pm
Post by: Somnolent on 16 May, 2016, 04:16:10 pm
Excellent video, if only to see what it's like for the fast riders.
Menai bridge in daylight? Respect.
Post by: Whitedown Man on 16 May, 2016, 04:32:34 pm
Post by: Bunker22 on 16 May, 2016, 04:44:18 pm
I then spent the last 20km worrying about my bowels, at Bulwark I let go but it was a false alarm.
Thank God its not just me that has this worry! :-[
Post by: duracellbunnyonabike on 16 May, 2016, 04:45:15 pm
how about the channel? then search for it from there : https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY-B4tqGYGYT0WJJbx2aigQ
Thanks Adam. Was restricted because of network administration at library where I am working today. Managed to see it on phone now. Fantastic footage! Nice to meet briefly on the tandem bus. Do you mind if I link to / embed your video in a blog post?
Post by: Diesel on 16 May, 2016, 04:48:48 pm
My first BCM, lived up to all expectations and surpassed them in places.
Rode with 3 guys from Portsmouth most of the morning, enjoying their company. I also enjoyed the Staylittle/Machynllech mountain road despite the challenge and what a downhill! I understand this is the first time this has been included for quite a few years - seems like a great choice in the dry but i might not be saying that in other conditions...
By the time I got to Llanberis it was dark so showed some caution here, but the control at Menai was a very welcome sight. Jacket potato and loads of sweet snacks plus caffeine set me up for the night shift.
Having company for the night ride made a huge difference. Big thanks to Neil and Julian for keeping spirits up. Julian's Garmin recording -1 before we got to Kings about 4. The sight of so many bikes scattered all over the grass will stick with me!
Just an hour's sleep for me and then off to enjoy day 2 - is Wales all hills? Lots of good company on the second day coming and going.
Lots of motor bikes I agree but so many less cars than I see normally in the South East so better overall?
Wonderful experience, thanks to all.
Post by: hippy on 16 May, 2016, 04:57:09 pm
I'm not riding :(
Difficult decision but my knee is a bit iffy and I don't want to risk aggravating it. And work is a bit busy so it will be helpful to be fresh on Monday. I hope everyone enjoys the sunshine!
I wondered why I didn't see you. Though with my pace, it was equally likely you'd left at 6am and I never caught up with you. Hope it gets better soon.
Post by: hippy on 16 May, 2016, 05:04:08 pm
That was epic! Stunning scenery (I wish I could live in Wales), very nice support/service at stops and beautiful daytime weather. I wanted to ride through the night but was ill-prepared. Not enough/ineffective layers meant frozen for 8 hours. Frozen hands = braking/shifting became a lottery; frozen legs = no power, brain freeze/confusion = navigation error adding about 25k of hills, sheep and stone filled lanes. Live and learn ;-) I'll be back next year better prepared hopefully.
Funny how I'd 'planned' to sleep and would've been better off if I kept moving instead of freezing in a bivvy and for once in my life I didn't have a navigation issue (a Garmin device worked for over 24hrs - I know, I should buy a lottery ticket!) using your route. Is that irony? :)
Post by: hippy on 16 May, 2016, 05:07:25 pm
A major glitch in the route sheet needs sorting out. Stage 2 "153.0 left onto B4518 "should really be "135.0 left ...". Until that point the route sheet is within a few Km of the interweb. After that it is 18Km over. I suspect the route is short as others have mentioned but most riders would have done sufficient to make up the difference due to detours intentional or otherwise.
If it wasn't for another bloke I might've missed the Llanidloes? control at 160k. I write the control distances down on a cheat sheet so wasn't planning on stopping until then but it appeared at ~140k. I think that was the only weirdness.
Post by: hippy on 16 May, 2016, 05:11:11 pm
Mr Blacksheep running Aberhasefp, and also running a good line in toilet roll delivery as I recall, (the kitchen at Aberhasepf, with HOT bacon sarnies with beans and hot tinned tomatoes run by Siobhan Cox, whose hubby Andy was out riding...) and of course Ritchie and family all over the place...
Damn, I think I rode past Aberhasefp. I was so slow it would've been open when I went past too. Next time...
Post by: hippy on 16 May, 2016, 05:36:03 pm
After trying and failing to get any sleep in a bivvy at Kings (to the guys that asked it said -3degC on the Garmin - sitting still so no windchill) I went a bit down hill mentally and just kind of grovelled along for hours and hours feeling sorry for myself. Thought about bivvying again now the sun was out but in the end just laid down on a grassy corner somewhere and 'reset'. That and some food helped for a while and then the sads came back later and I tried it again outside a pub and a female cyclist (not on BCM) asked if I was ok! We had a bit of a chat and rather than moving inside the pub fence I decided I should just ride. So thanks whoever you were, you cheered me up and got me home that much quicker.
After a final refill of food and drink at some service station I had a fast finish. Ended up pretty pink as I didn't bother to put on any sunscreen. Weird event for me since I wasn't racing and it was more of a test for TCR, I couldn't quite get my head in the right place - since I was adding in sleep stops and I wasn't pushing hard I just kept dwelling on stuff or getting annoyed when people passed me and I wasn't keeping up and dumb stuff like that instead of enjoying the ride I was getting angry with myself for not competing! It's not a race you idiot! Nevermind, I'm feeling better about the whole experience with some hindsight :)
Got some more good info about what works and what doesn't so next long training ride, whatever it is, should go that much better. Things like Compact cranksets and putting my side-entry bottle cages on the other way around.. :)
Thanks to the organisers and the volunteers. Thanks to other riders who I shared a brief comments with about the cold or my crack cocaine or just a "got everything you need" or whatever.
Post by: Graeme on 16 May, 2016, 06:07:17 pm
What a great weekend of cycling, good weather certainly helps! Huge thanks to Richie and all the team.
My first BCM, lived up to all expectations and surpassed them in places...
Wonderful experience, thanks to all.
Well done Diesel! :)
Post by: Clemo on 16 May, 2016, 08:37:37 pm
https://youtu.be/7u4dtaDADQI
Post by: adam w on 16 May, 2016, 08:39:21 pm
Unless its a pro hunting video ... please do!how about the channel? then search for it from there : https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY-B4tqGYGYT0WJJbx2aigQ
Thanks Adam. Was restricted because of network administration at library where I am working today. Managed to see it on phone now. Fantastic footage! Nice to meet briefly on the tandem bus. Do you mind if I link to / embed your video in a blog post?
Post by: LMT on 16 May, 2016, 09:59:33 pm
Post by: L CC on 16 May, 2016, 10:38:48 pm
Yoghurt
lunchbox malt loaf
Salad at The Great Oak
Soup; apple pie; fruit salad
Cheese roll
Swiss roll
Just a mouthful of sticky toffee cake- then I hit dates, *shudder*
more malt loaf
toast with jam
bacon, sausage & tomato
soup; apple cake
cornetto
No celery.
Not a bad weekend, all in.
At least the walks came with a view:
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/20160514_125118.jpg)
(http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/fboab/20160514_201850.jpg)
It was good to ride with Neilv, then gadget & andyp, great company on the road, much appreciated in the night.
And thanks to Mr Smith, for all that driving. He's almost as post-audax as me, today.
Post by: BlackSheep on 16 May, 2016, 10:49:02 pm
I guess all the motorbikes were on the way home from NW200 race week?
Not a good time to be on the roads I can imagine.
Nah, just normal Sunday motorbike levels. There's a fairly 'natural' loop. Typically the long loop being Abergavenny, Llandovery, Builth, Rhayader, Llangurig, Aberystwyth, Macynlleth, Newtown, Llandrindod Wells, Builth, then back to Englandshire or to Abergavenny. There are a few sub loops also, both in the town's north of Builth, the others being Builth and south.
Post by: hippy on 16 May, 2016, 10:54:34 pm
A short video of that road into Machynlleth, sorry about the Grockle car it wouldn't clear off.
https://youtu.be/7u4dtaDADQI
For any other dirty forruns...
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=grockle
Post by: jamesld8 on 17 May, 2016, 06:36:41 am
I guess all the motorbikes were on the way home from NW200 race week?
Not a good time to be on the roads I can imagine.
Nah, just normal Sunday motorbike levels. There's a fairly 'natural' loop. Typically the long loop being Abergavenny, Llandovery, Builth, Rhayader, Llangurig, Aberystwyth, Macynlleth, Newtown, Llandrindod Wells, Builth, then back to Englandshire or to Abergavenny. There are a few sub loops also, both in the town's north of Builth, the others being Builth and south.
and to give a feel of just how many motorcyclists and avoidable accidents are on those roads at summer w/e Dyfed -Powys police have put together a road map showing casualty blackspots across the county (it`s on display at many locations including toilets at Cross Gates north of L`dod )---it`s very alarming indeed.
eg scale problem : http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-police-chief-writes-7656904
Post by: BlackSheep on 17 May, 2016, 07:28:17 am
It all makes for some grizzly reading, particularly the fact that from the official figures a very high proportion of fatalities the riders were NOT speeding. Sure, there are those that do - just like car drivers.I guess all the motorbikes were on the way home from NW200 race week?
Not a good time to be on the roads I can imagine.
Nah, just normal Sunday motorbike levels. There's a fairly 'natural' loop. Typically the long loop being Abergavenny, Llandovery, Builth, Rhayader, Llangurig, Aberystwyth, Macynlleth, Newtown, Llandrindod Wells, Builth, then back to Englandshire or to Abergavenny. There are a few sub loops also, both in the town's north of Builth, the others being Builth and south.
and to give a feel of just how many motorcyclists and avoidable accidents are on those roads at summer w/e Dyfed -Powys police have put together a road map showing casualty blackspots across the county (it`s on display at many locations including toilets at Cross Gates north of L`dod )---it`s very alarming indeed.
eg scale problem : http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-police-chief-writes-7656904
I expect that just about all cyclists witnessed speeding on the stretch out of Newtown to Llandrindod Wells A483. In point of fact on many of the first miles the speed limit is 30 mph. I was being tailgated by a jerk in a VW Pasat - complete with family including 3 kids. Well I hope they were all his, frightening if he treated other peoples children in that way.
There's good/bad right/wrong on both sides, but it's always the most physically vulnerable that come-off second best.
I'd love to know the highways agencies' thought process when they were considering the above stretch. The modifications to the road do nothing for road safety.
Post by: Frank9755 on 17 May, 2016, 08:08:27 am
I had a good day on day one - loved the scenery Wales had to offer and was surprised it was so warm. Would love to take the missus and explore the prettier bits a little more. Rode along chatting with a guy who wasn't on the ride until Kings where he split to a B&B in the town.
After trying and failing to get any sleep in a bivvy at Kings (to the guys that asked it said -3degC on the Garmin - sitting still so no windchill) I went a bit down hill mentally and just kind of grovelled along for hours and hours feeling sorry for myself. Thought about bivvying again now the sun was out but in the end just laid down on a grassy corner somewhere and 'reset'. That and some food helped for a while and then the sads came back later and I tried it again outside a pub and a female cyclist (not on BCM) asked if I was ok! We had a bit of a chat and rather than moving inside the pub fence I decided I should just ride. So thanks whoever you were, you cheered me up and got me home that much quicker.
After a final refill of food and drink at some service station I had a fast finish. Ended up pretty pink as I didn't bother to put on any sunscreen. Weird event for me since I wasn't racing and it was more of a test for TCR, I couldn't quite get my head in the right place - since I was adding in sleep stops and I wasn't pushing hard I just kept dwelling on stuff or getting annoyed when people passed me and I wasn't keeping up and dumb stuff like that instead of enjoying the ride I was getting angry with myself for not competing! It's not a race you idiot! Nevermind, I'm feeling better about the whole experience with some hindsight :)
Got some more good info about what works and what doesn't so next long training ride, whatever it is, should go that much better. Things like Compact cranksets and putting my side-entry bottle cages on the other way around.. :)
Thanks to the organisers and the volunteers. Thanks to other riders who I shared a brief comments with about the cold or my crack cocaine or just a "got everything you need" or whatever.
The route makes a good leisurely tour. We did similar (Cardiff to Holyhead) over five days last year. We also lucked out with the weather then, and enjoyed going at a leisurely pace, visiting some of the pubs along the way, eating big meals in the evenings, big breakfasts, sleeping in beds, etc.
Interesting re the mental aspect of not racing. I don't race as much as you but sometimes get that and it can really kill enjoyment of a ride. Company is the best cure but, if that isn't around, I find the next best is to turn off all data feeds - like distance, power, speed or whatever - which are not vital for navigation, and try to enjoy the scenery, and to daydream.
It must have been really cold trying to bivvy at Kings. In North Wales, the ground is still very cold in mid May and with those nighttime temps you'd need winter gear to get warm.
Post by: Frank9755 on 17 May, 2016, 08:17:45 am
That was epic! Stunning scenery (I wish I could live in Wales), very nice support/service at stops and beautiful daytime weather. I wanted to ride through the night but was ill-prepared. Not enough/ineffective layers meant frozen for 8 hours. Frozen hands = braking/shifting became a lottery; frozen legs = no power, brain freeze/confusion = navigation error adding about 25k of hills, sheep and stone filled lanes. Live and learn ;-) I'll be back next year better prepared hopefully.
The daytime weather was great but the temperature range made it hard if you trying to travel light, as I expect you would have been. A 20-degree variation means its hard to avoid having a saddlebag of extra clothes. And it's always surprising how long it takes to warm up, even on a sunny morning. I remember seeing local guys out for day rides on sunny Sunday mornings of 600s, where they have been zipping along in short sleeves and shorts, while I've been wearing 3 or 4 layers and still feeling cold.
Post by: Frank9755 on 17 May, 2016, 08:20:33 am
Nah, just normal Sunday motorbike levels. There's a fairly 'natural' loop. Typically the long loop being Abergavenny, Llandovery, Builth, Rhayader, Llangurig, Aberystwyth, Macynlleth, Newtown, Llandrindod Wells, Builth, then back to Englandshire or to Abergavenny. There are a few sub loops also, both in the town's north of Builth, the others being Builth and south.
Probably my most scary experience in a car (apart from getting the dozies on the M4 driving back after Bryan Chapman five years ago!) was when a couple of motorbikes decided to play chicken with me on a road near Llandovery. I really thought for an instand that one of them wanted to come into my car via the windscreen.
Post by: bobb on 17 May, 2016, 08:27:27 am
I remember seeing local guys out for day rides on sunny Sunday mornings of 600s, where they have been zipping along in short sleeves and shorts, while I've been wearing 3 or 4 layers and still feeling cold.
I was still wearing: base layer, long sleeve thermal base layer, long sleeved jersey, long sleeved fleece lined jersey and full on jacket right into Sunday afternoon! ;D
Really enjoyed the event * Thanks to everyone involved :)
* Well, you know, apart from the usual "what the hell am I doing?" moments whilst freezing at 3am...
Post by: duracellbunnyonabike on 17 May, 2016, 08:33:51 am
That was epic! Stunning scenery (I wish I could live in Wales), very nice support/service at stops and beautiful daytime weather. I wanted to ride through the night but was ill-prepared. Not enough/ineffective layers meant frozen for 8 hours. Frozen hands = braking/shifting became a lottery; frozen legs = no power, brain freeze/confusion = navigation error adding about 25k of hills, sheep and stone filled lanes. Live and learn ;-) I'll be back next year better prepared hopefully.
The daytime weather was great but the temperature range made it hard if you trying to travel light, as I expect you would have been. A 20-degree variation means its hard to avoid having a saddlebag of extra clothes. And it's always surprising how long it takes to warm up, even on a sunny morning. I remember seeing local guys out for day rides on sunny Sunday mornings of 600s, where they have been zipping along in short sleeves and shorts, while I've been wearing 3 or 4 layers and still feeling cold.
Hi Frank, sorry you had to miss this fantastic event. I was travelling light indeed but also had a drop bag at Kings. Just missing a few warmer garments in it. Still made it round by 10am after 6:15 start but was aiming for 8am. Funny to see locals in shorts and short sleeved tops whilst i was still freezing. Looking fw to giving my next 600km a try. Happy to have conquered it though and mostly solo. Mentally I feel stronger for it which gives confidence for challenges ahead. Looking fw to leisurely lejog recce at end of the month though with just 150mls a day, leisurely food stops and nights in hotel beds :-)
Post by: trickedem on 17 May, 2016, 09:33:02 am
Thanks very much to the volunteer who sold me a new tyre, I was back on the road, but I was now worried about my rim, as the blown tyre was fairly new. So I caught the train from Newtown to Abegavenny.
Although I gave up audaxing at 1am on Sunday morning, I'm of course planning to return next year leaner and fitter:)
I took some pics along the way. PM me if you want a hi res copy.
Thanks to the Essex massive who I rode with some of the way, it was nice to meet you
https://goo.gl/photos/dRxX3cFukPgfaxsg7
Sent from my MotoG3 using Tapatalk
Post by: Hammerman on 17 May, 2016, 09:44:57 am
Bumped into Bairdy a few times, usually at food stops, that must mean something. There were too many highpoints to list, and other than the odd idiot on motorbikes I can't think of any lowpoints.
My best moment of the ride? Cycling up Nantgwynant towards Pen y Pass as the sun was setting, magical.
Thank you Ritchie and all helpers, you did yourself proud
Post by: hippy on 17 May, 2016, 10:53:18 am
Interesting re the mental aspect of not racing. I don't race as much as you but sometimes get that and it can really kill enjoyment of a ride. Company is the best cure but, if that isn't around, I find the next best is to turn off all data feeds - like distance, power, speed or whatever - which are not vital for navigation, and try to enjoy the scenery, and to daydream.
It must have been really cold trying to bivvy at Kings. In North Wales, the ground is still very cold in mid May and with those nighttime temps you'd need winter gear to get warm.
I tend to do the opposite and do things like maths around the distance remaining - so say it was 50k to go, I'd divide by 2 and that's 25kph and as it ticked over I'd keep dividing. It gives me something to do and makes the distance to go smaller too. I think I'll give your method a go. I used to do that in races some times - tape up the computer and ride on feel. Probably easier to do during an audax when it doesn't matter if you slack off. I'll add that into my bag of tricks for next long one. Cheers.
I'm sure I was warmer in the bivvy this time with the extra kit compared to last time although it was colder outside if the Garmin is to be believed (-3 vs. 0). I probably should've grabbed some cardboard or something from inside the hostel to use as a ground pad but I'm kind of trying to start minimal and add stuff until I can actually sleep. Kind of like trying to fly by jumping off a building first and then adding wings on the second attempt...
Post by: hippy on 17 May, 2016, 10:57:34 am
I discovered I had had a visitation and my tyre had a massive tear by the bead, which luckily exploded the inner tube in the control, rather than when I was on the road.
Conti?
Conti + Bin = Joy
Post by: mattc on 17 May, 2016, 11:16:27 am
...
I probably should've grabbed some cardboard or something from inside the hostel to use as a ground pad but I'm kind of trying to start minimal and add stuff until I can actually sleep. Kind of like trying to fly by jumping off a building first and then adding wings on the second attempt...
;D
Post by: trickedem on 17 May, 2016, 01:18:24 pm
Yep it was a gatorskin. Brand new is Aug for PBP, so probably less than 2.5k miles on utI discovered I had had a visitation and my tyre had a massive tear by the bead, which luckily exploded the inner tube in the control, rather than when I was on the road.
Conti?
Conti + Bin = Joy
Post by: hippy on 17 May, 2016, 02:43:07 pm
Post by: vistaed on 17 May, 2016, 03:50:02 pm
It must have been really cold trying to bivvy at Kings. In North Wales, the ground is still very cold in mid May and with those nighttime temps you'd need winter gear to get warm.
Having read this thread, I now know never to Bivi at Kings. It did strike me as potentially a cold spot to bivi, being in a deep valley next to a river with no natural shelter or cover. Quite glad I slept in the soft insulated sheltered woods near Nantmor. Sure, I could have been warmer but I only used an emergency throw away SOL bivi bag on the ground and wore a down gillet under my windproff. I'd be surprised if the air temp dropped below 5 degrees, but it could have been warmer. The SOL bivi bag would never have been sufficient at Kings. Just to note, if you carry on up the hill for a couple hundred meters past Kings, there are some wonderful looking bivi spots with soft ground sheltered under some trees and well away from the river valley.
Post by: hippy on 17 May, 2016, 04:11:09 pm
In hindsight I wasn't tired enough and probably should've left Kings after a feed and found a corner in a field somewhere.
I carried my sleeping bag around but didn't use it because by the time I'd got the bivvy set up I didn't want to get out and rearrange everything.
Next time I think I'll try my sleeping bag cover (not bivvy) and sleeping bag along with a sleeping pad of some sort and maybe leave the silk liner and jacket at home.
I'm struggling to find a compact sleeping pad. I don't like the idea of those crazy light cut-out ones and I think even chopped down, the yoga mat I have will be cumbersome.
Post by: jamesld8 on 17 May, 2016, 05:16:18 pm
It must have been really cold trying to bivvy at Kings. In North Wales, the ground is still very cold in mid May and with those nighttime temps you'd need winter gear to get warm.
Having read this thread, I now know never to Bivi at Kings. It did strike me as potentially a cold spot to bivi, being in a deep valley next to a river with no natural shelter or cover.
Even though I picked a spot under cedar tree--- it was cold, very cold and I won`t be doing it again!! My idea was based on my year 1 BCM when I found it all to be just fine and had a really good night sleep; same spot this year was not a great success at all, not even one tiny bit and I decamped at 4am to warmth YH.
Post by: Somnolent on 17 May, 2016, 05:37:48 pm
I'm struggling to find a compact sleeping pad. I don't like the idea of those crazy light cut-out ones and I think even chopped down, the yoga mat I have will be cumbersome.
Have you looked at things like the Alpkit Lumo? Similar weight to a short length self-inflater, but half the packed size.
Post by: jamesld8 on 17 May, 2016, 05:53:44 pm
I'm struggling to find a compact sleeping pad. I don't like the idea of those crazy light cut-out ones and I think even chopped down, the yoga mat I have will be cumbersome.
Have you looked at things like the Alpkit Lumo? Similar weight to a short length self-inflater, but half the packed size.
I used that as my sleep mat sat night--it was both really comfy and warm :thumbsup: just everything else was cold ....
Post by: drgannet on 17 May, 2016, 06:17:29 pm
I'm struggling to find a compact sleeping pad. I don't like the idea of those crazy light cut-out ones and I think even chopped down, the yoga mat I have will be cumbersome.
Have you looked at things like the Alpkit Lumo? Similar weight to a short length self-inflater, but half the packed size.
Thermarest Prolite - smallest and lightest there is (XS might be a bit short...). Used mine in a variety of situations and never felt cold (I weight about 75kg). The Neoair Xlite is similar in weight and packed size but has higher R value and costs twice as much.
Post by: Phil W on 17 May, 2016, 08:10:41 pm
http://www.exped.com/usa/en/product-category/mats?f[0]=field_mat_line%3A1121
Post by: Frank9755 on 17 May, 2016, 10:07:51 pm
I'm struggling to find a compact sleeping pad. I don't like the idea of those crazy light cut-out ones and I think even chopped down, the yoga mat I have will be cumbersome.
It is a problem; all the ones that pack up small need to be inflated and / or deflated, which rules them out.
I'm determined to try bubble wrap. May not be mega comfy but it does pack smaller than a foam mat.
Post by: Frank9755 on 17 May, 2016, 10:21:10 pm
Well that was fun. It was all going fairly well, but I was losing ground badly on the hills. By the time I got to Kings I desperately needed some sleep, which shouldn't have been the case at 5.30pm. After a snooze and some food I set off around 9pm, but Ritchie urged me to consider my options once I got past Harlech. Faced with a lonely cold ride, I realised that I probably wasn't as fit as I needed to be, so I set off back to Kings, via Trawsfynned. It was a wise move for me as by the time I got back I was desperately tired again. After a few more hours snooze I set off again and had a good ride to Aberhafesp. As I was about to leave I discovered I had had a visitation and my tyre had a massive tear by the bead, which luckily exploded the inner tube in the control, rather than when I was on the road.
Thanks very much to the volunteer who sold me a new tyre, I was back on the road, but I was now worried about my rim, as the blown tyre was fairly new. So I caught the train from Newtown to Abegavenny.
Although I gave up audaxing at 1am on Sunday morning, I'm of course planning to return next year leaner and fitter:)
I took some pics along the way. PM me if you want a hi res copy.
Thanks to the Essex massive who I rode with some of the way, it was nice to meet you
https://goo.gl/photos/dRxX3cFukPgfaxsg7
Sent from my MotoG3 using Tapatalk
Good pictures, Tim.
Are you not well? Doesn't sound like you to be running out of steam at 5:30.
Post by: trickedem on 17 May, 2016, 10:38:46 pm
Really not sure why I was so sleepy. I didn't sleep so well the night before but that is nothing unusual. Although I have found that a little snooze/rest does wonders for my appetite problems.
Good pictures, Tim.
Are you not well? Doesn't sound like you to be running out of steam at 5:30.
I hope to do better on the National 400 in July.
Post by: Tomsk on 18 May, 2016, 07:50:46 am
There really needs to be an ice-cream van in that layby overlooking the reservoir, a la Abbotsbury, on the Dorset Coast...
Post by: P Walsh on 18 May, 2016, 09:07:00 am
Well that was fun. It was all going fairly well, but I was losing ground badly on the hills. By the time I got to Kings I desperately needed some sleep, which shouldn't have been the case at 5.30pm. After a snooze and some food I set off around 9pm, but Ritchie urged me to consider my options once I got past Harlech. Faced with a lonely cold ride, I realised that I probably wasn't as fit as I needed to be, so I set off back to Kings, via Trawsfynned. It was a wise move for me as by the time I got back I was desperately tired again. After a few more hours snooze I set off again and had a good ride to Aberhafesp. As I was about to leave I discovered I had had a visitation and my tyre had a massive tear by the bead, which luckily exploded the inner tube in the control, rather than when I was on the road.
Thanks very much to the volunteer who sold me a new tyre, I was back on the road, but I was now worried about my rim, as the blown tyre was fairly new. So I caught the train from Newtown to Abegavenny.
Although I gave up audaxing at 1am on Sunday morning, I'm of course planning to return next year leaner and fitter:)
I took some pics along the way. PM me if you want a hi res copy.
Thanks to the Essex massive who I rode with some of the way, it was nice to meet you
https://goo.gl/photos/dRxX3cFukPgfaxsg7
Sent from my MotoG3 using Tapatalk
Some years ago I had to bail out of a BCM, but I used it as a learning experience and came back the next year to complete it. I'd also say that the route to Mach this year looks particularly tough. Imagine that bit in bad weather!
Post by: fussballclub on 18 May, 2016, 09:20:15 am
So who avoided the steep hill to YHA Dolgellau on the way out? Please enlighten me as I love a gravely road.
Post by: Chris N on 18 May, 2016, 09:36:20 am
https://www.strava.com/segments/1067071
So who avoided the steep hill to YHA Dolgellau on the way out? Please enlighten me as I love a gravely road.
I can't imagine that anyone rode that as part of the BCM. :o That's a great road though - long steep climb from the SW then a fast-ish gravelly section across the top and a rough gravel descent towards Arthog. If you really want to avoid the steep climb to the YH then head SW from Dolgellau on NCN 82 then approach the YH from the south - though there's still a single chevron on that end of the road.
Post by: Chris S on 18 May, 2016, 09:40:16 am
https://www.strava.com/segments/1067071
So who avoided the steep hill to YHA Dolgellau on the way out? Please enlighten me as I love a gravely road.
I can't imagine that anyone rode that as part of the BCM. :o That's a great road though - long steep climb from the SW then a fast-ish gravelly section across the top and a rough gravel descent towards Arthog. If you really want to avoid the steep climb to the YH then head SW from Dolgellau on NCN 82 then approach the YH from the south - though there's still a single chevron on that end of the road.
Pretty sure they did. There were two guys near the back of the ride on mountain bikes. I remember them riding up the path to the control and saying "I'm guessing they're not on our ride." but I was wrong - in they came with brevet cards in hand.
Post by: Chris N on 18 May, 2016, 09:44:22 am
Post by: jamesld8 on 18 May, 2016, 10:31:01 am
Ah, Mike Hall and (possibly) vistaed. Nutters. :thumbsup:
fairly sure it will have been them, saw both together @ Kings and vistaed report above refers to some `diversions ` I get impression they were doing a grand BCM tour :)
Post by: vistaed on 18 May, 2016, 11:09:13 am
Ah, Mike Hall and (possibly) vistaed. Nutters. :thumbsup:
fairly sure it will have been them, saw both together @ Kings and vistaed report above refers to some `diversions ` I get impression they were doing a grand BCM tour :)
Yep, that was us. Mike had spotted that route a few weeks before and wanted to give it a try. I'm always up for an adventure but didn't expect the gravel which was a bonus. Rather glad I was on 38mm tires. But I didn't enjoy the climb on my single speed!
Post by: rabbit on 18 May, 2016, 11:12:29 am
Ah, Mike Hall and (possibly) vistaed. Nutters. :thumbsup:
fairly sure it will have been them, saw both together @ Kings and vistaed report above refers to some `diversions ` I get impression they were doing a grand BCM tour :)
Yep, that was us. Mike had spotted that route a few weeks before and wanted to give it a try. I'm always up for an adventure but didn't expect the gravel which was a bonus. Rather glad I was on 38mm tires. Bit I didn't enjoy the climb on my single speed!
Sounds awesome! ;D ;D
Post by: vistaed on 18 May, 2016, 01:45:38 pm
Ah, Mike Hall and (possibly) vistaed. Nutters. :thumbsup:
fairly sure it will have been them, saw both together @ Kings and vistaed report above refers to some `diversions ` I get impression they were doing a grand BCM tour :)
Yep, that was us. Mike had spotted that route a few weeks before and wanted to give it a try. I'm always up for an adventure but didn't expect the gravel which was a bonus. Rather glad I was on 38mm tires. Bit I didn't enjoy the climb on my single speed!
Sounds awesome! ;D ;D
It was. There is something to be said for adding in a few gravel detours to the BCM to break up the tarmac. I like the idea of a 'grand BCM Tour' to suite bikes fitted out with wider rubber.
Post by: Oscar's dad on 18 May, 2016, 01:57:21 pm
Post by: rabbit on 18 May, 2016, 02:08:02 pm
Post by: BlackSheep on 18 May, 2016, 02:53:39 pm
Yeah, a bit of off-roading is always welcome :thumbsup:
I'm trying to tempt Cambrian (OTP) to run an event from Leominster that would take-in plenty of that sort of thing. It's just too far from Tewkesbury to be practical.
Hats off the Vistaed and Mike Hall - true audaciousness in the middle of an already audacious event.
I spoke with them at Kings and Aberhafesp - they seemed to be having an absolute blast. The pics taken of Barmouth from the track were stunning. Impressive too that Vistaed was only on single speed. They didn't appear to be in any great hurry to leave Aberhafesp, but got to arrivee for about 19.00hrs?
Post by: vistaed on 18 May, 2016, 03:52:55 pm
Yeah, a bit of off-roading is always welcome :thumbsup:
I'm trying to tempt Cambrian (OTP) to run an event from Leominster that would take-in plenty of that sort of thing. It's just too far from Tewkesbury to be practical.
Hats off the Vistaed and Mike Hall - true audaciousness in the middle of an already audacious event.
I spoke with them at Kings and Aberhafesp - they seemed to be having an absolute blast. The pics taken of Barmouth from the track were stunning. Impressive too that Vistaed was only on single speed. They didn't appear to be in any great hurry to leave Aberhafesp, but got to arrivee for about 19.00hrs?
This picture. It was a stunning view. I'd quite like to return one day and bivi up there. And yes, we kept a good pace back to Chepstow. Got back just before 7pm. Not bad as we were very much the last to leave Kings. Mike did make my legs hurt!
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7510/26994335656_4cd721c381_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/H8p2wh)DSC_0985 (https://flic.kr/p/H8p2wh) by james gillies (https://www.flickr.com/photos/124469934@N06/), on Flickr
Post by: fussballclub on 18 May, 2016, 04:33:58 pm
https://www.strava.com/segments/4683842
Post by: Hot Flatus on 18 May, 2016, 04:36:24 pm
Yeah, a bit of off-roading is always welcome :thumbsup:
I'm trying to tempt Cambrian (OTP) to run an event from Leominster that would take-in plenty of that sort of thing. It's just too far from Tewkesbury to be practical.
Hats off the Vistaed and Mike Hall - true audaciousness in the middle of an already audacious event.
I spoke with them at Kings and Aberhafesp - they seemed to be having an absolute blast. The pics taken of Barmouth from the track were stunning. Impressive too that Vistaed was only on single speed. They didn't appear to be in any great hurry to leave Aberhafesp, but got to arrivee for about 19.00hrs?
This picture. It was a stunning view. I'd quite like to return one day and bivi up there. And yes, we kept a good pace back to Chepstow. Got back just before 7pm. Not bad as we were very much the last to leave Kings. Mike did make my legs hurt!
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7510/26994335656_4cd721c381_k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/H8p2wh)DSC_0985 (https://flic.kr/p/H8p2wh) by james gillies (https://www.flickr.com/photos/124469934@N06/), on Flickr
Just a little further to the east of there are some old quarries with a stunning blue lake.
Post by: Greenbank on 19 May, 2016, 01:19:06 pm
http://www.lfgss.com/comments/12993112/
Spookily it happened just outside Rhayader but fixed at a different place in the town.
Post by: Hot Flatus on 19 May, 2016, 04:05:03 pm
Post by: BlackSheep on 19 May, 2016, 07:03:40 pm
To be honest I'm amazed Peter Simon hasn't yet joined the club.I think it's just a matter of time, although he has been using a bright shiney bike quite a bit over the last couple of years
Post by: Hot Flatus on 19 May, 2016, 09:43:18 pm
Post by: Gadget on 19 May, 2016, 10:15:33 pm
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 20 May, 2016, 06:47:33 am
At the end of BCM I thought I'd lost my cash card, train ticket and cash- I was amazed to find it was handed in and posted back to me via the organisers. I never got to know who handed it in- so in the hope you know who it was, or it was you, then a massive thank you- I owe you a pint and an energy gel.That's just the company you keep on Audax. Good, decent and helpful. I wish the whole world behaved like people on a long Audax - except for the applying a**e cream in clear view.
BB
Post by: Von Broad on 20 May, 2016, 07:53:12 am
The BCM strikes again! Someone else (not me) has joined the VonBroad BCM welding club:-
http://www.lfgss.com/comments/12993112/
Spookily it happened just outside Rhayader but fixed at a different place in the town.
Dunno, not so sure.
Is this the same guy using the same welder in the same garage? (http://homepage.ntlworld.com/vindaloo77/welds/weld2.jpg)
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 20 May, 2016, 07:55:54 am
Post by: hippy on 20 May, 2016, 09:07:05 am
Post by: Whitedown Man on 20 May, 2016, 11:39:16 am
Post by: plod on 20 May, 2016, 02:44:37 pm
50km in Richmond Park this morning, the first time on my bike since Sunday. It was good, but it was no Machynlleth mountain road. Can't it be BCM every weekend?
Yes I am setting out at midnight tonight ;)
Post by: Phil W on 21 May, 2016, 10:30:32 pm
Post by: Justin(e) on 22 May, 2016, 04:29:11 am
Getting to be a habit? Next time a BCMer walks into view, that bloke might charge extra for 'welding while you wait'!
More info please.
The legend of the Von Broad can only be enhanced by an attempt at imitation.
Post by: Greenbank on 22 May, 2016, 09:20:58 am
More info please.
http://www.lfgss.com/comments/12993112/
Post by: duracellbunnyonabike on 22 May, 2016, 05:51:31 pm
I am asking as I am planning a fast route from Lands End to John o Groats (as a recce with a record attempt in mind for 2017). This is what my route currently looks like for that day (including the bit through Bristol that I am not 100% sure of): https://www.strava.com/routes/5097540
Passing through any big city is bad, but what are the worst times for passing through Bristol so I can try to avoid that period if at all possible?
Post by: caerau on 22 May, 2016, 07:26:44 pm
Should be a round of applause smiley here. Weather was partially shite I reckon and solo for a 600 like that is not to be sniffed at. Big congrats.
[edit] Oh i see he's mentioned it above.
Post by: GPS on 22 May, 2016, 08:15:33 pm
Probably this should be posted elsewhere on this forum, but given there were a few people from Audax Club Bristol on the BCM, can you advise the fastest (i.e. least traffic lights etc) route through Bristol if I would be approaching along the A38 from the South and want to continue along the A38 to the north (in direction of Filton)?
I am asking as I am planning a fast route from Lands End to John o Groats (as a recce with a record attempt in mind for 2017). This is what my route currently looks like for that day (including the bit through Bristol that I am not 100% sure of): https://www.strava.com/routes/5097540
Passing through any big city is bad, but what are the worst times for passing through Bristol so I can try to avoid that period if at all possible?
If you ride it during the small hours you could stick to the A38 the whole way. The roads are a bit bashed about in places, and there are plenty of traffic lights, but you'll get through fairly quickly if you ride through at the right time because traffic is the biggest pain.
I rode the A38 through Stoke's Croft (which has a bit of a reputation) in the small hours last Saturday on my way from South Bristol to Chepstow, and had to dodge drunks and taxis - which you'd expect on a Saturday morning in such areas in any city - but it was still fairly quick.
Alternatively, you could divert to the east of the city & pick up the cycle path, or go west where it's flatter. Who really knows what's best ? And of course - if you ask a question here, you'll get umpteen different opinions.
When do you think will you be riding through ?
Post by: postrestant on 22 May, 2016, 09:54:56 pm
Probably this should be posted elsewhere on this forum, but given there were a few people from Audax Club Bristol on the BCM, can you advise the fastest (i.e. least traffic lights etc) route through Bristol if I would be approaching along the A38 from the South and want to continue along the A38 to the north (in direction of Filton)?
I am asking as I am planning a fast route from Lands End to John o Groats (as a recce with a record attempt in mind for 2017). This is what my route currently looks like for that day (including the bit through Bristol that I am not 100% sure of): https://www.strava.com/routes/5097540
Passing through any big city is bad, but what are the worst times for passing through Bristol so I can try to avoid that period if at all possible?
you can go down East St
Post by: postrestant on 22 May, 2016, 10:01:17 pm
Probably this should be posted elsewhere on this forum, but given there were a few people from Audax Club Bristol on the BCM, can you advise the fastest (i.e. least traffic lights etc) route through Bristol if I would be approaching along the A38 from the South and want to continue along the A38 to the north (in direction of Filton)?
I am asking as I am planning a fast route from Lands End to John o Groats (as a recce with a record attempt in mind for 2017). This is what my route currently looks like for that day (including the bit through Bristol that I am not 100% sure of): https://www.strava.com/routes/5097540
Passing through any big city is bad, but what are the worst times for passing through Bristol so I can try to avoid that period if at all possible?
later you could try Redcliffe St, High St, Wine St, Union St. More of a muchness than last suggestion. If you stick to your present route you can take the underpass.
Post by: hippy on 22 May, 2016, 11:04:58 pm
Probably this should be posted elsewhere on this forum, but given there were a few people from Audax Club Bristol on the BCM, can you advise the fastest (i.e. least traffic lights etc) route through Bristol if I would be approaching along the A38 from the South and want to continue along the A38 to the north (in direction of Filton)?
I am asking as I am planning a fast route from Lands End to John o Groats (as a recce with a record attempt in mind for 2017). This is what my route currently looks like for that day (including the bit through Bristol that I am not 100% sure of): https://www.strava.com/routes/5097540
Passing through any big city is bad, but what are the worst times for passing through Bristol so I can try to avoid that period if at all possible?
Let me have a look at my attempt. There's a generally accepted fastest route through but probably does depend on time of day.
Post by: Frank9755 on 23 May, 2016, 08:04:17 am
Post by: duracellbunnyonabike on 23 May, 2016, 09:56:55 am
Stuart - if you could share any of your route with me that would be awesome.
Frank - who is the Teethgrinder?
Post by: caerau on 23 May, 2016, 09:59:56 am
Post by: GPS on 23 May, 2016, 10:19:30 am
Thanks all for the advice. I will study the options a bit more tonight when I have some time to look at maps.I don't know if you mean me (I'm not called Stuart but have been mistakenly called that before bizarrely) - but just in case, here's a link to my route through Bristol to get to Chepstow last week : https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13917489
Stuart - if you could share any of your route with me that would be awesome.
I've modified the start and finish so it sticks to the A38. I live in South Bristol quite close to the A38 though, so there's hardly any change there.
It follows Malago Rd rather than East St because that's a pedestrianised / bus-only shopping area which can be quite hairy when it's busy.
Post by: simonp on 23 May, 2016, 10:56:54 am
I think going round the west (leaving A38 at Churchill) adds 4 miles. It would be much flatter, though.
Post by: pangolin on 23 May, 2016, 12:54:51 pm
Thanks all for the advice. I will study the options a bit more tonight when I have some time to look at maps.I don't know if you mean me (I'm not called Stuart but have been mistakenly called that before bizarrely) - but just in case, here's a link to my route through Bristol to get to Chepstow last week : https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13917489
Stuart - if you could share any of your route with me that would be awesome.
I've modified the start and finish so it sticks to the A38. I live in South Bristol quite close to the A38 though, so there's hardly any change there.
It follows Malago Rd rather than East St because that's a pedestrianised / bus-only shopping area which can be quite hairy when it's busy.
You actually have to get off and walk over one of those bridges currently - not ideal for a record attempt! I think the route proposed by DBOAB is probably about as good as it gets, except for maybe going down East Street.
Post by: duracellbunnyonabike on 23 May, 2016, 01:05:44 pm
Thanks all for the advice. I will study the options a bit more tonight when I have some time to look at maps.I don't know if you mean me (I'm not called Stuart but have been mistakenly called that before bizarrely) - but just in case, here's a link to my route through Bristol to get to Chepstow last week : https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13917489
Stuart - if you could share any of your route with me that would be awesome.
Thanks. Recce ride scheduled for next week. Actual record attempt not until September 2017. Hopefully all road works etc cleared by then
I've modified the start and finish so it sticks to the A38. I live in South Bristol quite close to the A38 though, so there's hardly any change there.
It follows Malago Rd rather than East St because that's a pedestrianised / bus-only shopping area which can be quite hairy when it's busy.
You actually have to get off and walk over one of those bridges currently - not ideal for a record attempt! I think the route proposed by DBOAB is probably about as good as it gets, except for maybe going down East Street.
Post by: simonp on 23 May, 2016, 01:36:39 pm
What I do is, instead of turning right to Malago Rd, keep left, right at the mini roundabout, then follow on-road singed cycle route down to the river, cross at ped/cycle bridge, turn right onto cumberland rd, left at mini roundabout, bear left through bus/cycles only route, rejoining A38 at Colston Avenue.
I suspect it's faster than the Malago Rd route as it's shorter and fewer traffic lights, but you do have to get across to the ped/cycle bridge.
Edit: here's the link https://www.google.co.uk/maps/dir/51.4328184,-2.6103148/51.460323,-2.591074/@51.4473997,-2.5989537,15z/data=!4m14!4m13!1m10!3m4!1m2!1d-2.5999433!2d51.4427096!3s0x48718c2b65e45241:0x6e26b7b97d4a9b0c!3m4!1m2!1d-2.5970418!2d51.4463483!3s0x48718dd51cb25dab:0x943eb2117a800890!1m0!3e2
Post by: GPS on 23 May, 2016, 02:39:20 pm
You actually have to get off and walk over one of those bridges currently - not ideal for a record attempt! I think the route proposed by DBOAB is probably about as good as it gets, except for maybe going down East Street.
Yup - you're probably right there. And I forgot about the bridge at the MShed being a walk nowadays (during the daytime anyway). I have to admit I cycled over it at 4 a.m. last week ...
I'd still avoid East St during business hours though.
Post by: duracellbunnyonabike on 24 May, 2016, 02:26:41 pm
Teethgrinder is that Steve Abrahams chap - it's his moniker on here. He's been known to cycle a bit I believe ;)
I wish there was a 'like' button on here
Post by: Smeth on 07 September, 2016, 07:39:43 pm
Post by: BlackSheep on 07 September, 2016, 08:55:25 pm
Anyone fancy an aerial re-run of that glorious Llanidloes-Staylittle stretch (in reverse)check out today's coverage of the Tour of Britain. Blimey they ride those climbs at speed and make them look small.
Many years ago the ride went both ways along that stretch.
Post by: LEE on 01 December, 2016, 12:02:34 pm
Quick route through Snowdonia (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAKD_eeM5kU)
Post by: Rumps on 01 December, 2016, 03:00:16 pm
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 01 December, 2016, 10:59:46 pm
I'm thinking about booking B&B in dollegau, it seems viable to check in and drop a bag there on the way north, ready for arrival and collapsing into bed in the early hours, is this reasonable?
Also getting home is a concern. I'm thinking driving is not sensible, but it's hard to predict what time I'll need a train, and also the small matter of riding to Bristol parkway on the back of 600km. How do people normally manage this?
Also how hard is it? I did the Dean last year in about 15 hours, and the severn across in about 21. Should I be training to get better? And how many hours do I need my lights to last?
Anything I else I need to know (first 600)
Post by: simonp on 01 December, 2016, 11:16:45 pm
Post by: citoyen on 01 December, 2016, 11:59:07 pm
Post by: Redlight on 02 December, 2016, 08:40:05 am
I'm thinking about booking B&B in dollegau, it seems viable to check in and drop a bag there on the way north, ready for arrival and collapsing into bed in the early hours, is this reasonable?
Also getting home is a concern. I'm thinking driving is not sensible, but it's hard to predict what time I'll need a train, and also the small matter of riding to Bristol parkway on the back of 600km. How do people normally manage this?
Also how hard is it? I did the Dean last year in about 15 hours, and the severn across in about 21. Should I be training to get better? And how many hours do I need my lights to last?
There's usually plenty of room to sleep at the Hostel so no need for a B&B unless you are a very light sleeper and can't share with others. In past years there has also been a bag drop arrangement so you can leave your bag at the start and it gets taken to the hostel. I don't know if that's planned for next year but, if not, leaving your change of kit at the hostel seems a sensible idea.
It sounds as though you will finish comfortably within the time limit but I'd agree that driving home straight away is not a wise move. I usually book a room at the Severn View travelodge, which is a 10 minute ride over the bridge, for the Sunday night and take the train back the next morning. It's not a long ride back to Parkway but it is uphill, navigation can be tricky when you're tired and it's dark and, frankly, I'm usually too knackered at the end of the BCM to contemplate it. Also, I'm always wary of NOT finishing on time for whatever reason and missing the last train back to London.
Is it hard? I'd say yes but I'm only a middling rider. There are certainly some testing climbs and the weather in Snowdonia can be foul, which can make the loop up to Menai a bit of a slog. But, there's always a big field so you can usually find others to ride with, which helps with the motivation. And when the weather is fine, bits of the route can be quite stunning.
Post by: Smeth on 02 December, 2016, 10:04:13 am
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 02 December, 2016, 10:39:22 am
Post by: trickedem on 02 December, 2016, 11:08:17 am
Sent from my MotoG3 using Tapatalk
Post by: Whitedown Man on 02 December, 2016, 11:15:48 am
+1 re. Severn Bridge Travelodge rather than trying to get home on the Sunday night
+1 re. the Llanidloes to Machynlleth section
Post by: Ivan on 02 December, 2016, 11:41:16 am
In past years there has also been a bag drop arrangement so you can leave your bag at the start and it gets taken to the hostel. I don't know if that's planned for next year but, if not, leaving your change of kit at the hostel seems a sensible idea.
From http://chepstowaukevent.weebly.com/: Bag Drop no bag drop planned for 2017 due to numbers
:(
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 02 December, 2016, 12:59:34 pm
Has a BD entry - which means bag drop.
I am not bothered either way and I will just carry a change of shorts.
BB
Post by: caerau on 02 December, 2016, 04:59:03 pm
In past years there has also been a bag drop arrangement so you can leave your bag at the start and it gets taken to the hostel. I don't know if that's planned for next year but, if not, leaving your change of kit at the hostel seems a sensible idea.
From http://chepstowaukevent.weebly.com/ (http://chepstowaukevent.weebly.com/): Bag Drop no bag drop planned for 2017 due to numbers
:(
He said that last time I did it - but did a bag drop in the end anyway.
Post by: LEE on 02 December, 2016, 06:21:21 pm
Also getting home is a concern. I'm thinking driving is not sensible,
Driving for more than 20-30 minutes, immediately after a 600, should be illegal imo (I've done it.. once. Big mistake).
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 02 December, 2016, 08:45:33 pm
Steve
Post by: Redlight on 03 December, 2016, 06:42:17 am
I will be catching the train home on Sunday evening. Already have room booked for Friday night. Unfortunately full with me and two club mates.
Steve
If I recall, the last train back towards London is about 9.30 from Parkway, which is fine if you're confident of finishing in 38.5 hours, but a bit risky for us tortoises
Post by: L CC on 03 December, 2016, 08:25:47 pm
There's usually plenty of room to sleep at the Hostel so no need for a B&B unless you are a very light sleeper and can't share with others.
I'd entirely disagree. I've only done this ride once, and I'm unlikely to do so again. Despite only a dozen or so females, (more than 100 men), there are not enough beds for every girl, let alone every bloke.
The reward for getting to Kings early is being kicked out of your bed for slower riders who need the bed. Book somewhere else seems a very sensible option to me.
Post by: jamesld8 on 03 December, 2016, 09:01:09 pm
There's usually plenty of room to sleep at the Hostel so no need for a B&B unless you are a very light sleeper and can't share with others.
I'd entirely disagree. I've only done this ride once, and I'm unlikely to do so again. Despite only a dozen or so females, (more than 100 men), there are not enough beds for every girl, let alone every bloke.
The reward for getting to Kings early is being kicked out of your bed for slower riders who need the bed. Book somewhere else seems a very sensible option to me.
OR you could always make mistake of opting for a (very very very) cold bivi on hostel lawn and `enjoy` several hours freezing before setting off again , without sleep, on a very cold morning :( (my experience 2016 ) What fboab says is good advice :thumbsup:
Post by: simonp on 03 December, 2016, 09:05:44 pm
Post by: Hot Flatus on 03 December, 2016, 09:16:30 pm
There's usually plenty of room to sleep at the Hostel so no need for a B&B unless you are a very light sleeper and can't share with others.
I'd entirely disagree. I've only done this ride once, and I'm unlikely to do so again. Despite only a dozen or so females, (more than 100 men), there are not enough beds for every girl, let alone every bloke.
The reward for getting to Kings early is being kicked out of your bed for slower riders who need the bed. Book somewhere else seems a very sensible option to me.
It didnt used to be like that. I recall one year being in the first 5 to Kings on the return and pretty much getting a full night in bed, or at least 6 hours. The last time I did the event I got 2 hours.
The price increase means its now almost the price of a b&b to enter, and there's no way Im hooning up there to be turfed out after 2 hours, so I dont enter. Ive ridden up there, or thereabouts, three times this year, B&B'd it and enjoyed it immensely. One of those occasions coincided with the BCM weekend, although I only saw a handful of riders.
Its a great event, but I really find the hardship of the sleeping arrangements too much to bear.
Post by: Chris S on 03 December, 2016, 09:17:56 pm
There's usually plenty of room to sleep at the Hostel so no need for a B&B unless you are a very light sleeper and can't share with others.
I'd entirely disagree. I've only done this ride once, and I'm unlikely to do so again. Despite only a dozen or so females, (more than 100 men), there are not enough beds for every girl, let alone every bloke.
The reward for getting to Kings early is being kicked out of your bed for slower riders who need the bed. Book somewhere else seems a very sensible option to me.
OR you could always make mistake of opting for a (very very very) cold bivi on hostel lawn and `enjoy` several hours freezing before setting off again , without sleep, on a very cold morning :( (my experience 2016 ) What fboab says is good advice :thumbsup:
I've pondered, on occasion, having seen the state that some (many?) of the riders were in, coming into the control overnight in near sub-zero temperatures, whether or not it would have made any difference to your outcome if we'd been a bit more gung-ho in our responses to you when you said "I'm going to sleep out there under the tree by the river."
We shall never know...
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 03 December, 2016, 09:25:29 pm
Post by: Chris S on 03 December, 2016, 09:32:33 pm
Then setting of at dawn for 50km before breakfast at King's.
That might work. Depends on the character of the "50km before breakfast at King's". I've not ridden it, so I don't know, but having ridden the Cambrian Minor a couple of times, I suspect it's "Hilly as Fuck."
Post by: Hot Flatus on 03 December, 2016, 09:35:26 pm
Post by: Phil W on 03 December, 2016, 10:00:15 pm
Post by: Von Broad on 03 December, 2016, 10:13:41 pm
But I had to laugh....
Just as an alternative perspective - there are some riders [looks around the room] that can never sleep on a 600. What? Who are these imbeciles? That may be their fault because they are just too damn slow to have anything worth to offer the world, but the fact remains - sleep is something that exists only in the realm of wishful thinking and fantasy.
Interestingly enough, what that means for the BCM in future years, is a mad scramble by faster riders to get the beds for long enough to justify entering.
Good luck :-)
Post by: tonyh on 05 December, 2016, 10:53:44 am
Just as an alternative perspective - there are some riders [looks around the room] that can never sleep on a 600
[waves greeting from across the room]
I'm one of those! (not really "never sleep", but "sleep when necessary for 15 minutes"). But, I'd never have made it (also twice) if I'd had to rebuild my frame on the way out!
Brilliant event.
Post by: catswiskas on 12 December, 2016, 01:37:34 pm
Please note we're down to the last 50 places for the Bryan Chapman 2017. We can't take more than 200 because of the capacity at the controls - especially Dolgellau. We expect that all the places will go by the New Year, so if you haven't booked yet, please get on with it...
I notice concerns about the bag drop. The bag drop happened in 2016 because we had 2 very kind volunteers who own their own van, who offered to do it for us. They were happy to risk their livelihood negotiating the lane to Kings. If we get a similar offer, the bag drop situation may change. We think it better to err on the side of caution, so that no-one books up expecting to find a bag drop which we then have to disappoint on...
I see too that there are comments about the cost of entry this year... yes the Bryan Chapman is more expensive than other events...however, have you ever wondered how events like this happen? And how much it costs to hire a Youth Hostel and assorted village halls, transport, volunteers' costs and food for a weekend for 200 riders plus helpers? We had to book Dolgellau for 2017 at Christmas 2015 - yes, that's 18 months before the event. I wonder how it would be received chez vous if you proposed doing this, then filling your living room with groceries for 200+ plus, knocking a hole in your family finances while you wait for the money to come in? This of course does not take account of the time taken to process entries, answer queries, organise the food, transport, volunteers, drive the route to check it, liaise with the controls beforehand, thank them all afterwards, get the brevet cards ordered, process them when you've finished riding etc. etc. Wiggle's Wye Valley Warrior Sportive is £35 in 2017 - and that only goes round the Wye Valley with mileage of 41 - 102 miles (depending on the level you choose)and offers you snacks and a sample of Muc-off.
There is a reasonable supply of B and B across the route...and particularly in Snowdonia, and it's generally the case that they understand the need of visitors to be up and about at very early hours - if you're someone who needs sleep, we recommend you explore this option. At teh finish, it has concerned me that sometimes folk are driving or cycling home shortly after finishing. There are Band B's in town, campsites nearby, travel lodges at Raglan and a new one at Monmouth...and the Green man Backpacker's hostel in town is now open and is very smart.
Finally there is a file on this thread with a "shortcut through Snowdonia" ... the Guv'nor is a veteran of 20+ Bryan Chapmans and has commented that shortcuts are not generally faster, and may take you over some terrain that proves to be both exciting and challenging - possibly even hair curling. He also murmured something about information controls....and suggested that if you were intending to cheat on the route then it might be prudent not to write about it on a public forum...there will be up to 200 riders on the event, so someone will probably spot you anyway...and really what is the point of doing an Audax event, if you are, so to speak, not doing the event?
So there you go...some ideas on preparing for the event later when I can scroll back to Wycombewheeler's original question...
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 12 December, 2016, 02:00:30 pm
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Post by: tonyh on 12 December, 2016, 02:05:28 pm
Post by: chrisbainbridge on 12 December, 2016, 02:12:20 pm
The amount of work put in by Ritchie and his family to make this happen is immense. Anybody moaning about the price in my view is quite simply an idiot.
Post by: catswiskas on 12 December, 2016, 02:16:46 pm
I've signed up for this for next year, and I'm starting to worry about how hard it will be.The organiser says that if you've done a 400 then you should be able to do a 600. This event is supported with halls with food and drink as well as cafes as controls, and a youth hostel where you can get some sleep (though at busy times this will be limited), so I understand it's a good 600 to try the distance on. Looking at my stats for the past 3 years, three quarters of riders finish in the time slot 5pm - 8pm on Sunday. The remaining 25% are generally faster than this. He has ridden it in 23 hours and 50 mins - so if you're wanting tips on a fast ride, best ask him. I think it's down to lucky socks.
I'm thinking about booking B&B in dollegau, it seems viable to check in and drop a bag there on the way north, ready for arrival and collapsing into bed in the early hours, is this reasonable?
Also getting home is a concern. I'm thinking driving is not sensible, but it's hard to predict what time I'll need a train, and also the small matter of riding to Bristol parkway on the back of 600km. How do people normally manage this?
Also how hard is it? I did the Dean last year in about 15 hours, and the severn across in about 21. Should I be training to get better? And how many hours do I need my lights to last?
Anything I else I need to know (first 600)
yes you need to train - the organiser used to cycle commute 50 miles round trip a day...whatever lights you use, be aware there are no charging facilities at Dolgellau, there are few places open on Sat night early Sunday morning across mid Wales, bring spare batteries.
The weather can be changeable and can go from near freezing in the mountains over night to really quite warm during the day.
There's also what I would call "mental attitude". It isn't easy to sit on a bike for hours on end, and you have to want to do it. You also have to be able to put your mind elsewhere and just get on with it - even when you wish it would stop. Part of this is personality - and part of it is pushing yourself. Going into it with the aim of completing it rather than thinking you might give up is probably a starting point.
There are some hints and tips at this link:http://chepstowaukevent.weebly.com/detailed-notes-and-route.html
please note the prices and route have not been updated for 2017 yet, but the background info is still appropriate.
Post by: Hot Flatus on 12 December, 2016, 02:59:37 pm
I have volunteered twice now and had an amazing time. This year I am riding.
The amount of work put in by Ritchie and his family to make this happen is immense. Anybody moaning about the price in my view is quite simply an idiot.
Nobody is moaning about the price are they?
In fact in the last few pages the only person to mention price as a prohibitive factor is me. That doesn't mean I think it is bad value, nor does it mean that i'm unaware of the hard work put in by volunteers for free.
It just means that for me, riding for two days with only the possibility of 2 hours lying down makes it not an enjoyable proposition. There is the prospect of getting a B&B, but the combined cost of entry plus B&B pushes the cost into £100 territory. That still isnt a huge amount pro rata compared to many sportives, but for me personally it makes the cost/benefit ratio not so favourable. Is this the organiser's fault? No. Is there anything else he could or should do? No. Am I allowed to comment on my own inability to suffer the sleeping arrangements? Yes.
Post by: citoyen on 12 December, 2016, 04:14:33 pm
I'm not moaning about it though. And I'm hugely grateful for the amount of effort and personal expenses put in by organisers.
Post by: bikey-mikey on 12 December, 2016, 06:46:04 pm
and they do it for nowt, except the thanks we give, and the occasional mug of coffee....
Post by: mattc on 12 December, 2016, 07:11:43 pm
Nobody is moaning about the price are they?
If enough people moan about the moaners, then it will become (internet) truth that people are moaning about the price.
Meanwhile, I doubt that the event will struggle for entries. I enjoyed both my rides a few years back, but honestly have no idea what the entry fee was. I think it has sold out in most recent years, and the organiser has said it probably will this year. A few ungrateful shits moaning about the price will make little difference ;)
[I've been roped into the other Welsh 600 this season, so I don't have to decide on "Is the BCM good value?" ]
Post by: Nelson Longflap on 12 December, 2016, 10:47:15 pm
Summary: it's a bargain; if you are tired enough you will sleep.
Advice: book a nice place to stay in Chepstow after the finish and you'll feel great after the inevitable good rest.
Post by: inappropriate_bike on 15 December, 2016, 06:34:40 am
If someone is traveling up from that there London and wants to share expenses please send me a PM!
Post by: Exit Stage Left on 15 December, 2016, 07:17:34 am
It's a great event, organised selflessly by incredibly kind people who work harder than a real employer could ever expect..
and they do it for nowt, except the thanks we give, and the occasional mug of coffee....
It usually costs to volunteer, as expenses are rarely claimed. That creates an interesting dynamic in the volunteers, who are doing it because people did it for them. If the event costs more than they would have been able to pay themselves, they might wonder why they are paying to help people with plenty of cash.
Above a certain entry fee, the volunteers will want expenses, and the price increase takes on an upward momentum of its own, leading to an expectation of better facilities. That's when the moaning starts to put the volunteers off.
Post by: jiberjaber on 15 December, 2016, 02:27:55 pm
I've written a cheque and booked some rooms.... what have I let myself in for! :facepalm:
Post by: catswiskas on 15 December, 2016, 02:46:39 pm
Post by: simonp on 15 December, 2016, 03:27:03 pm
Cheque book hunt this evening then.
Post by: mattc on 15 December, 2016, 07:16:44 pm
An insightful post, which probably deserves wider discussion at some point :thumbsup:It's a great event, organised selflessly by incredibly kind people who work harder than a real employer could ever expect..
and they do it for nowt, except the thanks we give, and the occasional mug of coffee....
It usually costs to volunteer, as expenses are rarely claimed. That creates an interesting dynamic in the volunteers, who are doing it because people did it for them. If the event costs more than they would have been able to pay themselves, they might wonder why they are paying to help people with plenty of cash.
Above a certain entry fee, the volunteers will want expenses, and the price increase takes on an upward momentum of its own, leading to an expectation of better facilities. That's when the moaning starts to put the volunteers off.
Post by: simonp on 16 December, 2016, 03:11:39 pm
Turns out I knew where my cheque book was, without any searching required.
Post by: Steve Beard on 18 December, 2016, 06:00:11 pm
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Post by: drgannet on 19 December, 2016, 09:44:29 pm
Post by: trickedem on 19 December, 2016, 10:01:01 pm
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Post by: JohnL on 19 December, 2016, 10:07:20 pm
Entries now closed...
Are we going to get confirmation emails to say we have a space? I sent my cheque last week second class, so I hope it made it in time but I'm not sure....
John
Post by: jiberjaber on 20 December, 2016, 12:32:21 am
Entries now closed...
Are we going to get confirmation emails to say we have a space? I sent my cheque last week second class, so I hope it made it in time but I'm not sure....
John
+1, mine went in the post on Sat morn.... ???
Post by: inappropriate_bike on 20 December, 2016, 04:04:58 am
"We've processed the first batch of entries for BCM 2017 so, if you're reading this email, you have a place."
So you probably will get an email at some point.
Post by: yanner on 20 December, 2016, 08:19:58 am
Post by: GPS on 20 December, 2016, 08:56:53 am
Post by: desmondo on 20 December, 2016, 12:40:00 pm
In terms of sleep, the night section of a 600 is the best part of the ride. Why waste it by sleeping?
Post by: desmondo on 20 December, 2016, 12:41:35 pm
Post by: Ian H on 20 December, 2016, 12:54:43 pm
Post by: pangolin on 20 December, 2016, 04:13:13 pm
Post by: Andy Corless on 20 December, 2016, 04:21:33 pm
How?
Andy Corless
Post by: Ian H on 20 December, 2016, 04:27:39 pm
Ouch, from 50 spaces to sold out in a week. Thought I had a bit more leeway than that!
Ah. Oh well. There are other 600s.
Post by: Ian gaggiaport on 20 December, 2016, 05:47:12 pm
Post by: simonp on 20 December, 2016, 06:39:42 pm
Post by: mattc on 20 December, 2016, 07:21:19 pm
The chapman is a wonderful 600. But indeed there are others. But I'm happy to not do it on lel year and allow others the practice and I'll find other rides. The kernow is excellent as is Marks llanrwst 600.Oh come on Ian, suurely you can manage its real name. ;D
Anyway ... I'd rate those rides as measurably (but not impossibly) harder than the BCM [I've only ridden the welsh one, my assesment of the K&SW is based on considerable but 2nd-hand evidence]
The most similar ride is Iddu's from Leominster. There are a few roads in common (round Llanidloes IIRC). It uses some more interesting bits of wales (for a slightly tougher Day1), then a mostly English Day2 which is a little less exciting (in both ways) than the BCM's. 2017 is the first running, so it might be a bargain, and/or it might need some edges knocking off!
June 17th http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/17-604/
Post by: Ian H on 20 December, 2016, 07:44:23 pm
Post by: Redlight on 20 December, 2016, 09:32:03 pm
Post by: vorsprung on 21 December, 2016, 04:40:38 pm
The chapman is a wonderful 600. But indeed there are others. But I'm happy to not do it on lel year and allow others the practice and I'll find other rides. The kernow is excellent as is Marks llanrwst 600. This year I'm looking at France and Belgium as alternatives . The main attraction for me is the iconic double traverse of wales in a weekend. Its something that non cyclists can visualise if not entirely comprehend.
I agree but the K&SW 600 isn't running this year and I don't see any sign of the unpronounceable 600 either!
I missed out on the BCM last 2 years. In 2015 I entered but couldn't ride due to family issues. In 2016 I sent off my entry form too late. This year looks like I won't get a chance either! :)
Post by: vorsprung on 21 December, 2016, 04:43:29 pm
Ride it as a perm !
Actually, I might do this if I enter LEL. Shortly before LEL as a bit of a warm up.
Post by: simonp on 28 December, 2016, 02:56:56 pm
Schrodinger's entry.
Wave function has collapsed - cheque cashed. :)
Post by: jiberjaber on 28 December, 2016, 06:10:46 pm
Schrodinger's entry.
Wave function has collapsed - cheque cashed. :)
Must remember to review my bank statement when I get home tomorrow night! :thumbsup:
Post by: trickedem on 28 December, 2016, 06:44:18 pm
Check your spam folder. I did. I have an entry for this bit of unfinished business.Schrodinger's entry.
Wave function has collapsed - cheque cashed. :)
Must remember to review my bank statement when I get home tomorrow night!
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Post by: jiberjaber on 28 December, 2016, 07:50:50 pm
Post by: simonp on 28 December, 2016, 09:13:29 pm
Post by: aidan.f on 28 December, 2016, 09:46:52 pm
www.aukweb.net/events/detail/17-8 (http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/17-8)
Post by: jiberjaber on 29 December, 2016, 04:25:25 pm
Post by: Folly on 29 December, 2016, 04:29:07 pm
Post by: JohnL on 29 December, 2016, 06:27:13 pm
No sign of the cheque being cashed yet...
Mine was cashed yesterday, so it looks like I'm committed!
John
Post by: Frank9755 on 29 December, 2016, 07:29:57 pm
A nice, not too hilly, do-able 600. Good scenery, quiet roads, good facilities. Still plenty of entry space.
www.aukweb.net/events/detail/17-8 (http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/17-8)
A lovely ride
Enjoyed it very much despite 12 hours of solid rain through night and into the Sunday. And it worked well as a train expedition from London.
Post by: Steve Beard on 30 December, 2016, 08:09:07 pm
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Post by: Ian H on 30 December, 2016, 11:23:59 pm
Post by: adam w on 04 January, 2017, 09:02:13 pm
Post by: vistaed on 04 January, 2017, 09:48:07 pm
Post by: simonp on 04 January, 2017, 09:49:19 pm
Post by: Ian gaggiaport on 04 January, 2017, 10:25:08 pm
Kernow perm would work new quay as a sleep stop?
Post by: andyp on 04 January, 2017, 10:27:22 pm
Bugger, too late! How to get my May 600 in now?
The Brimstone!
http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/17-176/ (http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/17-176/)
An epic ride through incredible Wessex scenery, with a village hall night stop amidst the buttercups above Cheddar gorge. :thumbsup:
Post by: Ian H on 04 January, 2017, 11:34:04 pm
I'm noticing fewer people on calander 200s but oddly the 600s seem really popular.
Kernow perm would work new quay as a sleep stop?
There's a park on the left as you turn right at rbt towards the town. It has two or three benches under cover.
Post by: Phil W on 05 January, 2017, 12:26:11 am
I'm noticing fewer people on calander 200s but oddly the 600s seem really popular.
Kernow perm would work new quay as a sleep stop?
There's a much wider choice of 200's which reduces the number per each event. If you're like me you're much less likely to travel very far for a 200 but happy to do it for a 400 or 600.
Post by: Whitedown Man on 05 January, 2017, 06:17:41 am
Post by: Paul D on 05 January, 2017, 11:40:45 am
Bugger, too late! How to get my May 600 in now?
The Brimstone!
http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/17-176/ (http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/17-176/)
An epic ride through incredible Wessex scenery, with a village hall night stop amidst the buttercups above Cheddar gorge. :thumbsup:
Brimstone! There's a reasonable chance I'll be riding in May...come darn sarf and join in James.
Post by: D.A.L.E. on 05 January, 2017, 01:18:43 pm
Post by: jiberjaber on 09 January, 2017, 07:10:27 pm
Post by: Clemo on 13 January, 2017, 03:06:46 pm
worth checking your email.
Thanks Ritchie & Claire
Post by: trickedem on 13 January, 2017, 04:18:17 pm
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Post by: jiberjaber on 13 January, 2017, 04:58:13 pm
Post by: Phil W on 13 January, 2017, 06:36:32 pm
I'm in too. Travelodge booked, just need to lose 2 stone and gain some fitness
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Don't do what I did last year and book it for the Thursday night by mistake. :facepalm:
Post by: Bagman on 13 January, 2017, 08:17:11 pm
Chepstow Travelodge booked for Friday and Sunday nights
Post by: JohnL on 13 January, 2017, 08:42:12 pm
Cheers!
John
Post by: Redlight on 13 January, 2017, 09:01:11 pm
Post by: Whitedown Man on 13 January, 2017, 09:12:08 pm
Post by: JohnL on 13 January, 2017, 09:23:44 pm
John
ETA: Ok, just read the calendar entry it says there is, I assume that is correct?
Post by: Clemo on 13 January, 2017, 09:36:09 pm
Post by: Whitedown Man on 14 January, 2017, 05:16:14 am
This sounds promising! Worst case scenario is there parking at the start?
John
ETA: Ok, just read the calendar entry it says there is, I assume that is correct?
Some, but limited
Post by: Simon_A on 15 January, 2017, 05:41:50 pm
Parking at the Severn View Travel Lodge sounds good, with New Passage Rd as reserve.
The confirmation email mentions considering alternative accommodation in the Dolgellau area; is this commonly done or do most folk stay at the YH?
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 15 January, 2017, 06:23:13 pm
The confirmation email mentions considering alternative accommodation in the Dolgellau area; is this commonly done or do most folk stay at the YH?There has been some banter about the sleeping arrangements and you are limited to a few hours at peak time. I will take my luck at the YH. I may be sleeping under the table football table. :thumbsup:
BB
Post by: jiberjaber on 15 January, 2017, 06:24:32 pm
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 15 January, 2017, 06:29:47 pm
I'm in :)I've booked myself a place at penrhyndeudraeth to sleep at about 330km rather than 400km. I don't see how a 400 can be worse than a 600 if the 600 is split into 400 and 200. Also less night riding. Plan to check in/ drop off bag going north, then grab 4 hours sleep and a wash on way back, set off again at sunrise, should give me time to get to kings before the control deadline
Parking at the Severn View Travel Lodge sounds good, with New Passage Rd as reserve.
The confirmation email mentions considering alternative accommodation in the Dolgellau area; is this commonly done or do most folk stay at the YH?
Post by: mattc on 15 January, 2017, 06:33:56 pm
I hear rumours that one YACFer (and her domestiques) are booked into Snowdon Ranger YHA, which strikes me as the perfect spot (provided you can get in/out at Audax O'clock, I haven't checked).
Of course it's all extra cost, which could be spent on flapjack, beans and mud-flaps ...
Post by: inappropriate_bike on 15 January, 2017, 06:56:02 pm
I am in as well.
Chepstow Travelodge booked for Friday and Sunday nights
Me too, and one other YACFer sharing the room.
Might be quite a group there.
Post by: JohnL on 15 January, 2017, 07:13:13 pm
Just gotta get the miles in now!
John
Post by: Phil W on 15 January, 2017, 07:26:37 pm
The services also have free showers if not stopping Sunday night. Just ask for key in the newsagent place.
Post by: Clemo on 15 January, 2017, 07:39:27 pm
To get us in the mood ;D
Post by: BlackSheep on 15 January, 2017, 08:08:00 pm
Still no email or cheque cashed. The LWL emails are coming through and BCM shows in my AUK as entered (though I think that is because I had used that for the entry form?)
Yep, I think you've answered your own question there (unless the system has recently changed). "my AUK" is just that - it's a aide memoir for your use. Not a list of rides you've got a place on the start line.
Since it's introduction I've had many riders turn up at the start of rides thinking they'd entered. Then start to plead their case, some a little more vociferously than others. Now I just leave my laptop/tablet on the table and let them see what I see. I've never used the thing myself, perhaps it could do with a BIG FO banner stating that THIS LIST IS NOT A PROOF OF EVENT ENTRY
Post by: BlackSheep on 15 January, 2017, 09:07:01 pm
There has been some banter about the sleeping arrangements and you are limited to a few hours at peak time. I will take my luck at the YH. I may be sleeping under the table football table. :thumbsup:For those never having enjoyed the experience, sleeping usually is limited, I think last year it was 3 (maybe 4) hours. The hostel has 7 dorms of 6 beds (one room in the annexe did have 7 beds). So that's 42 (43) beds. One dorm is usually reserved for females (helpers and cyclists), so for the rest that 36 (37) beds for however many cyclists. There's a common room, which I always used, as it was a pick your spot and please yourself. We even had "Spiderman" in there one year. Common room can take maybe 10 of santa's helpers. There's always the space in front of the stream, some have camped there.
BB
The biggest factor is the weather, some years the early riders have carried-on to Aberhafesp, and got some rest there. But this isn't really an option for anyone unless they get back to King's the second time in some form of daylight. There have been those that have set-out from Kings with little or no rest, and have actually taken longer (on the road) on stage 6 than those that cycled in anything other than the dark.
I suppose the trick is not to arrive at kings anywhere between midnight and about 4 in the morning. Things will be
4 am is a good time to leave Kings, as you'll be at the top of the rise on the A470 as the daylight really kicks-in. So you can let the wheels run down towards Dynas Maldwyd. In the dark you'll be braking down there (sacralidge).
There are plenty of b&b options along stage 5 of the route, even an independant hostel in Barmouth and another in Dolgellau. You just have to get on the WWW and pick your spot.
Post by: Redlight on 15 January, 2017, 09:59:34 pm
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 16 January, 2017, 02:49:24 am
Why all this talk of sleep? 45 minute cat nap at Kings, the same at Aberhafesp and carry on. That's all you need.
I'm coming to the opinion that not stopping is a false economy, the limiting factor is the rate at which energy is digested, and that can happen whether stationary or moving
Post by: inappropriate_bike on 16 January, 2017, 09:55:03 am
The official stop comes later than ideal for us slower riders.
I hear rumours that one YACFer (and her domestiques) are booked into Snowdon Ranger YHA, which strikes me as the perfect spot (provided you can get in/out at Audax O'clock, I haven't checked).
The last check in at Snowdon Ranger is 10:30pm, and it is only on the return route, so you have to cover 340km in 16.5 hours (just over 20km/h - so 25-30km/h moving) to make it in time.
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 16 January, 2017, 10:18:40 am
Don't think I would be certain of making that. Maybe 50:50 bonking or any mechanical would wipe I out my chances.The official stop comes later than ideal for us slower riders.
I hear rumours that one YACFer (and her domestiques) are booked into Snowdon Ranger YHA, which strikes me as the perfect spot (provided you can get in/out at Audax O'clock, I haven't checked).
The last check in at Snowdon Ranger is 10:30pm, and it is only on the return route, so you have to cover 340km in 16.5 hours (just over 20km/h - so 25-30km/h moving) to make it in time.
Post by: tonyh on 16 January, 2017, 10:33:40 am
The last check in at Snowdon Ranger is 10:30pm
I can recommend the bench at the front of the YHA, for a 20 minute sleep around 2am. Might even have had some shelter from the rain. Perfect.
Post by: simonp on 16 January, 2017, 11:18:23 am
The services also have free showers if not stopping Sunday night. Just ask for key in the newsagent place.
Newsagent place? This is inside the services building next to Costa/BK?
Useful knowledge, not that I'm likely to need this, living only an hour from the start.
Post by: Redlight on 16 January, 2017, 11:59:45 am
Why all this talk of sleep? 45 minute cat nap at Kings, the same at Aberhafesp and carry on. That's all you need.
I'm coming to the opinion that not stopping is a false economy, the limiting factor is the rate at which energy is digested, and that can happen whether stationary or moving
Some of us have little choice - the ticking clock is never far behind ;)
Post by: D O G on 16 January, 2017, 12:57:01 pm
I suppose the trick is not to arrive at kings anywhere between midnight and about 4 in the morning. Things will becongestedinteresting then.
People will be going well to be getting there before midnight, surely. A hilly 400 in 18 hours is rapid, not crazy rapid (although fairly close I'd say), but I'd be surprised if there are many entrants who will be able to do that? Perhaps I'm underestimating the quality of the field!?
Post by: BlackSheep on 16 January, 2017, 01:44:30 pm
I suppose the trick is not to arrive at kings anywhere between midnight and about 4 in the morning. Things will becongestedinteresting then.
People will be going well to be getting there before midnight, surely. A hilly 400 in 18 hours is rapid, not crazy rapid (although fairly close I'd say), but I'd be surprised if there are many entrants who will be able to do that? Perhaps I'm underestimating the quality of the field!?
A couple of things to consider, (1), the quoted climb is for the entire route - so isnt that bad. And (2), all the hills are "Power hills", that's to say there's not that many steep (barring the approach to Kings, and the climb out of Llanidloes can be bypassed). So sure, mountain goats won't be too bothered, but neither should riders at the other end of the scale. In fact if the weather is less than good, the power riders will suffer less in exposed conitions.
As to riders getting back before midnight, plenty do. OK, not everyone is Mr. Gardiner calibre - he gets back at about 8pm. Young TOBY otp once returned to King's and on completion of his evening meal declared he was going to get some sleep, (8 hours I seem to recall). So off he toddled to the common room for his slumber.
But perhaps 10% to 15% of the field usually get back before/at midnight.
EDIT: 16/01/17 @ 22.50, key missing word added in bold
Post by: D O G on 16 January, 2017, 04:42:19 pm
Not being a mountain goat myself, nor having ridden it before, I get some comfort in your description of the route. Hopefully I'll get there in time for some sleep!
Post by: Phil W on 16 January, 2017, 06:38:53 pm
The services also have free showers if not stopping Sunday night. Just ask for key in the newsagent place.
Newsagent place? This is inside the services building next to Costa/BK?
Useful knowledge, not that I'm likely to need this, living only an hour from the start.
Yes that's the one.
Post by: mattc on 16 January, 2017, 07:48:28 pm
(At least on the old route. And I'm allowing for normal day2 fatigue - I've ridden a range of 600s to compare with. )
The first 400 is a lot quicker/easier than the Brevet Cymru.
Post by: Kangaroocourt on 16 January, 2017, 08:51:01 pm
Post by: simonp on 16 January, 2017, 10:20:03 pm
Of course I did ride the first 600k of the last PBP several hours faster but those are very different circumstances. Particularly since the time limit to get to Brest is 36h in the 80h group.
Post by: Redlight on 17 January, 2017, 12:44:19 pm
I'm another Travel Lodge user so will be interesting to get any sleep tips from any other slow riders staying over. I'll be pretty close to full value so a couple of cat naps en route may be as much as I can manage.
One niggle as a full value rider is that the control at Menai has, in my experiences, tended to shut up shop pretty sharpish, meaning that if you arrive close to the cut-off time there may not be much time to eat and certainly none to rest before heading back over the hills. That's not so bad if you have some provisions with you and the weather is OK but I recall arriving there very close to the wire one year, having come down from Llanberis in sleet and feeling decidedly shivery. There was no hot food left and I had to leave about 20 minutes later as they were closing up. It was still foul outside and the prospect of going back over the hills finished me off.
Post by: BlackSheep on 17 January, 2017, 01:26:42 pm
One niggle as a full value rider is that the control at Menai has, in my experiences, tended to shut up shop pretty sharpish, meaning that if you arrive close to the cut-off time there may not be much time to eat and certainly none to rest before heading back over the hills. That's not so bad if you have some provisions with you and the weather is OK but I recall arriving there very close to the wire one year, having come down from Llanberis in sleet and feeling decidedly shivery. There was no hot food left and I had to leave about 20 minutes later as they were closing up. It was still foul outside and the prospect of going back over the hills finished me off.
Control times aren't up for negotiation, if you want to stay until closing - then that's your choice. But staying until closing time is a risky game, you're only half way around, it gives no margin for any unforeseen stop.
The calendar page states "All food & drink at Dolgellau, Menai & Aberhafesp controls included in entry fee.". So if you turn-up at any of those controls, you're entitled to the same as anybody else. Surely anything else is prejudice. But there again I suppose you could always bang-in a post ride claim for validation citing your issues. The board would have very little option other than to validate - after all, the event hasn't been run to regulations.
Post by: Redlight on 17 January, 2017, 01:52:27 pm
But there again I suppose you could always bang-in a post ride claim for validation citing your issues. The board would have very little option other than to validate - after all, the event hasn't been run to regulations.
I hope I've not been misunderstood. I've no complaint - I had a bad ride north so made it to the control only very close to its official closing time and I don't blame the volunteers for wanting to pack up and go home. After all, they'd probably been there for 12+ hours. My account was more of a cautionary tale for Kangaroocourt and any other first-timers - the lesson I learned from it was to spend less time at the commercial controls on the way north and make sure I had provisions for the ride back to Kings in case there wasn't much left at Menai.
Post by: tippers_kiwi on 17 January, 2017, 02:31:54 pm
2015 I was back at Kings after about 21.5h. There was no queue for a bed and no sleep time limit from memory. I had about 2 hours kip before I woke and decided to just crack on (Some mechanical issues meant it took a bit to get going)
2016 I was back at Kings after about 22.5h. There was a waiting list for beds but by the time I had eaten a bed was ready. I had about an hours kip, a restful breakfast and got back on the road
The first year the climb out from Dolgellau up through Cross Foxes worried me, it took a long time and I was tired so my time in hand calculations were based on that first hour. That last ramp up just going into the clouds was a particular low moment that day (see below pic and ignore the cars side by side!) Luckily that was the top and the descent on the other side....well, you have to ride it to understand ;D
(http://thebrunners.com/blogs/onthebike/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/IMG_1339.jpg) (http://thebrunners.com/blogs/onthebike/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/IMG_1339.jpg)
Not long after that the sun came out and everything got better, more so once I got to the very welcoming Aberhafesp control.
2016 I was a bit broken on arriving at Dolgellau due to the unexpected brutish ride from Llanlidloes to Dolgellau (boy did I suffer) but it all came together again. I enjoyed the ride from Menai back to Kings a lot more, quite a lot of it on my own. I caught up to a couple of the ACME peloton shortly before Maentwrog where Tomsk likes a stop at the 5* Audax Hotel. It was very cold and because the 'hotel' is made from slate it had held a lot of warmth from the days sunshine, it was a nice 15 minute kip before the last climb past the power station and onto Dolgellau. I lost dropped of the peloton again at the top of the climb when I could feel a mini bonk coming on and stopped to eat the pastie in my bar bag while shivering under a street light :facepalm:
Post by: redfalo on 17 January, 2017, 03:35:45 pm
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 17 January, 2017, 05:52:52 pm
Control times aren't up for negotiation,
Should I take this to mean that if I chose to sleep somewhere before Kings, then I must be at Dollgellau to control by 09:00 on Sunday morning? And that if I want to eat at Kings, then I must arrive sufficiently before 09:00 to allow that?
Post by: mattc on 17 January, 2017, 06:15:07 pm
If you want to be sure of those things, then: yes, respect the "official" times.
Control times aren't up for negotiation,
Should I take this to mean that if I chose to sleep somewhere before Kings, then I must be at Dollgellau to control by 09:00 on Sunday morning? And that if I want to eat at Kings, then I must arrive sufficiently before 09:00 to allow that?
Post by: tippers_kiwi on 17 January, 2017, 06:34:02 pm
One question about sleeping facilities at the youth hostel. On rides like this, I usually carry an inner liner, a bivvy bag and a super-lightweight Therm-a-rest mattress. How likely is it the, assuming I will arrive at peak hours, can still find an indoor-space to roll out the mattress and get some kip?If you are Audax tired (which I have been more so on the BCM than any other ride) I am pretty sure you will find somewhere to sleep. That equipment you mention will probably just make it more comfy if you do end up improvising.
Post by: Bagman on 17 January, 2017, 09:16:46 pm
Post by: Nutbeem on 17 January, 2017, 10:16:34 pm
My longest Audax so far is a 400Km perm, with an 08:00 start and completed in 23hrs 55mins. I'm used to working shifts and night duties so didn't find riding 24hrs and lack of sleep caused any particular problems. Based on this experience I had contemplated either breakfast at Kings then continue or perhaps a catnap and move on.
Noting that several people are saying getting some sleep is actually a faster strategy, I guess the time spent sleeping is gained back because you regain some energy for the final 200Km. I'd be interested in other peoples experiences one way or the other.
I'm also happy with the idea of going with how I feel at the time, but being mindful the decision to sleep, or not, really needs to be made before or at Kings and not 30 minutes after leaving.
On a separate note I'm using a motorhome for accommodation. Sites I've seen so far are a Pub site at Alvington & Beeches Farm campsite. Does anyone have any experience of these or any other recommendations?
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 17 January, 2017, 11:53:34 pm
I thought the cut offtime at Kings Southbound would be 07:00aukweb calculator gives 08:50, which I think is right because a 400km event has a limit of 27 hours. I hope it isn't 07:00 that would mean starting again far too early, barely worth stopping.
Post by: mattc on 18 January, 2017, 08:30:56 am
Noting that several people are saying getting some sleep is actually a faster strategy, I guess the time spent sleeping is gained back because you regain some energy for the final 200Km. I'd be interested in other peoples experiences one way or the other.You want to be careful with that kind of "data". Sleep deprivation varies hugely between riders - I'm at the "usually feels like death after 24h" end of the spectrum, but quite a few folk just ride straight through a 600 without seeming to even slow down much.
From your post, you sound like one of these freaks that needs no sleep :thumbsup: Safe is always better than sorry, but don't assume you will need sleep just because I do!
Post by: DrMekon on 18 January, 2017, 08:54:08 am
Quick scan, it looks like having a sleep on a 600 associated with slow finishing time, but when you control for other variables, the association is non significant.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22559737 JB
My hunch - if you are quick, you don't need to sleep.
Full text in the link at the top right
Post by: Somnolent on 18 January, 2017, 09:27:29 am
I thought the cut offtime at Kings Southbound would be 07:00aukweb calculator gives 08:50, which I think is right because a 400km event has a limit of 27 hours. I hope it isn't 07:00 that would mean starting again far too early, barely worth stopping.
7 am start from King's makes for a relaxed second day, even for a full-value rider.
I've usually rocked up to there sometime around 4 am, as beds start to come free.
An hour eating / faffing and a couple of hours sleep seems to work OK for me, although I am always abysmally slow on that long climb past the Cross Foxes.
Post by: tippers_kiwi on 18 January, 2017, 09:31:58 am
7 am start from King's makes for a relaxed second day, even for a full-value rider.I thought that was me posting ;D
I've usually rocked up to there sometime around 4 am, as beds start to come free.
An hour eating / faffing and a couple of hours sleep seems to work OK for me, although I am always abysmally slow on that long climb past the Cross Foxes.
Post by: Bagman on 18 January, 2017, 09:38:52 am
I thought the cut offtime at Kings Southbound would be 07:00aukweb calculator gives 08:50, which I think is right because a 400km event has a limit of 27 hours. I hope it isn't 07:00 that would mean starting again far too early, barely worth stopping.
I also ran the calculator and still got 07:00 at Kings. Maybe someone else can confirm the cut off time at Kings southbound
Post by: Ian H on 18 January, 2017, 10:26:50 am
Post by: Bagman on 18 January, 2017, 12:19:30 pm
Post by: Redlight on 18 January, 2017, 12:43:22 pm
Post by: Bagman on 18 January, 2017, 12:48:53 pm
Post by: simonp on 18 January, 2017, 01:42:54 pm
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 18 January, 2017, 05:29:40 pm
my mistake I wasn't using the route sheets and had kings at 400km, not 376km. 8.24 quoted above sounds great.I thought the cut offtime at Kings Southbound would be 07:00aukweb calculator gives 08:50, which I think is right because a 400km event has a limit of 27 hours. I hope it isn't 07:00 that would mean starting again far too early, barely worth stopping.
I also ran the calculator and still got 07:00 at Kings. Maybe someone else can confirm the cut off time at Kings southbound
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 18 January, 2017, 05:32:50 pm
to be clear I don't think having breaks will improve the overall time, but that progress after breaks will be quicker and so overall time will increase by much less than the stationary time as a significant part of the time lost will be recovered, not all.Noting that several people are saying getting some sleep is actually a faster strategy, I guess the time spent sleeping is gained back because you regain some energy for the final 200Km. I'd be interested in other peoples experiences one way or the other.You want to be careful with that kind of "data". Sleep deprivation varies hugely between riders - I'm at the "usually feels like death after 24h" end of the spectrum, but quite a few folk just ride straight through a 600 without seeming to even slow down much.
From your post, you sound like one of these freaks that needs no sleep :thumbsup: Safe is always better than sorry, but don't assume you will need sleep just because I do!
Post by: simonp on 18 January, 2017, 05:56:22 pm
Post by: DrMekon on 18 January, 2017, 07:29:59 pm
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 19 January, 2017, 07:02:30 am
Shame Seething 600 isn't still run. I had over four hours kip, and was done in 32hrs. I think ChrisS may even have tucked me in, and Lyndsay made a cake with my name on it. Superb first 600 for me.I thought your first 600 was the DIY where we shared in the Monmouth TL?
BB
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 19 January, 2017, 07:09:12 am
Post by: DrMekon on 19 January, 2017, 07:43:12 am
No, that was my second - good times.Shame Seething 600 isn't still run. I had over four hours kip, and was done in 32hrs. I think ChrisS may even have tucked me in, and Lyndsay made a cake with my name on it. Superb first 600 for me.I thought your first 600 was the DIY where we shared in the Monmouth TL?
BB
Post by: BlackSheep on 19 January, 2017, 10:57:24 am
7 am start from King's makes for a relaxed second day, even for a full-value rider.Wise words Somnolent
Yes, when riding with groups that was always seemed to be the popular departure time. As you've mentioned, a relaxed 200 in 15 hours
I've usually rocked up to there sometime around 4 am, as beds start to come free.Turning up as the beds start to be ome free has benefits all 'round. You can have as much bedtime as you like, demand for beds tends not to exceed supply. Helpers then spend less time going to & fro from dorms.
An hour eating / faffing and a couple of hours sleep seems to work OK for me, although I am always abysmally slow on that long climb past the Cross Foxes.I don't think that many fly up that climb Peter. What really helps is a tailwind, if you can feel the wind on your back as you go up past the petrol station, just pray that it holds for the next hour, you'll get a real boost for the upper stretch.
I always used to "allow" myself half an hour to get to cross foxes, and another half to crest the compleat climb. The most 'unwelcome' bit being the downhill bit just after cross foxes to the farm. It's the last thing anyone really needs. If I took less than an hour - great, if I took more - no big deal, just use the following downhill to best effect.
For me the road mods between the Brithdir turn and cross foxes is an improvement. Getting rid of the niggling give & take inclines helps keep a good rhythm.
Post by: Ian H on 19 January, 2017, 11:14:40 am
I guess he says "This is my first time" to everybody.
Oo-er Missus!
Post by: simonp on 19 January, 2017, 12:08:38 pm
Post by: Somnolent on 19 January, 2017, 12:26:33 pm
I make no claim on them - just passing on what I was given as 'conventional wisdom' when I first did it.7 am start from King's makes for a relaxed second day, even for a full-value rider.Wise words Somnolent
Well - there's slow, and then there's arthritic snail..... I am always abysmally slow on that long climb past the Cross Foxes.I don't think that many fly up that climb Peter. What really helps is a tailwind, if you can feel the wind on your back as you go up past the petrol station, just pray that it holds for the next hour, you'll get a real boost for the upper stretch.
I always used to "allow" myself half an hour to get to cross foxes, and another half to crest the compleat climb. The most 'unwelcome' bit being the downhill bit just after cross foxes to the farm. It's the last thing anyone really needs. If I took less than an hour - great, if I took more - no big deal, just use the following downhill to best effect.
Took me 1h 20 from the YH to the top of the climb in 2016
Post by: fussballclub on 19 January, 2017, 01:39:15 pm
Post by: jiberjaber on 19 January, 2017, 05:36:09 pm
Entries now closed...
Are we going to get confirmation emails to say we have a space? I sent my cheque last week second class, so I hope it made it in time but I'm not sure....
John
+1, mine went in the post on Sat morn.... ???
Well it would appear my entry never made it to Wales, I suspect the carrier pigeon RM employed must have been used as an alternative Xmas bird or something.... so the org has confirmed my fears that I'm out.
I'll be cancelling my two rooms at the Travel Lodge shortly and considering some alternatives.
Post by: trickedem on 19 January, 2017, 05:52:20 pm
Sell the rooms on to another rider, rather than letting Travelodge make extra profit when they relist themEntries now closed...
Are we going to get confirmation emails to say we have a space? I sent my cheque last week second class, so I hope it made it in time but I'm not sure....
John
+1, mine went in the post on Sat morn.... ???
Well it would appear my entry never made it to Wales, I suspect the carrier pigeon RM employed must have been used as an alternative Xmas bird or something.... so the org has confirmed my fears that I'm out.
I'll be cancelling my two rooms at the Travel Lodge shortly and considering some alternatives.
Sent from my MotoG3 using Tapatalk
Post by: Ian H on 19 January, 2017, 06:00:01 pm
Well it would appear my entry never made it to Wales, I suspect the carrier pigeon RM employed must have been used as an alternative Xmas bird or something.... so the org has confirmed my fears that I'm out.
I'll be cancelling my two rooms at the Travel Lodge shortly and considering some alternatives.
Have you checked with the organiser? only I can see a first name not dissimilar to yours. PM me if you wish.
Post by: jiberjaber on 19 January, 2017, 06:27:21 pm
Well it would appear my entry never made it to Wales, I suspect the carrier pigeon RM employed must have been used as an alternative Xmas bird or something.... so the org has confirmed my fears that I'm out.
I'll be cancelling my two rooms at the Travel Lodge shortly and considering some alternatives.
Have you checked with the organiser? only I can see a first name not dissimilar to yours. PM me if you wish.
Hi Ian,
Yes, I've been in correspondence with Richie today, he kindly offered a spot on the helpers ride, but I'm bookended on both weekends - so will have a think about other options... (AUK #:14873)
Post by: jiberjaber on 19 January, 2017, 06:43:10 pm
Sell the rooms on to another rider, rather than letting Travelodge make extra profit when they relist them
Well it would appear my entry never made it to Wales, I suspect the carrier pigeon RM employed must have been used as an alternative Xmas bird or something.... so the org has confirmed my fears that I'm out.
I'll be cancelling my two rooms at the Travel Lodge shortly and considering some alternatives.
Sent from my MotoG3 using Tapatalk
Not sure how to do that, but if anyone wants to take them off my hands, they are both flexible rate bookings, so can be modified / cancelled I think:
Arr 12/05, Dep 13/05 Double room £72
Arr 14/05, Dep 15/05 Double room £47
Post by: Nutbeem on 19 January, 2017, 08:45:43 pm
Noting that several people are saying getting some sleep is actually a faster strategy, I guess the time spent sleeping is gained back because you regain some energy for the final 200Km. I'd be interested in other peoples experiences one way or the other.You want to be careful with that kind of "data". Sleep deprivation varies hugely between riders - I'm at the "usually feels like death after 24h" end of the spectrum, but quite a few folk just ride straight through a 600 without seeming to even slow down much.
From your post, you sound like one of these freaks that needs no sleep :thumbsup: Safe is always better than sorry, but don't assume you will need sleep just because I do!
Thanks to all, the varied responses have actually given me a clearer picture.
As Mattc says I am one of those freaks for whom the normal sleep patterns don't apply.
It looks like riding 600k is done and is an option, but it could be a gamble if you then get too tired you will struggle and slow down & then its not a good strategy.
Safest bet seems to be to aim to get a few hours rest at the YHA before heading onward.
Post by: Sezdavies on 24 January, 2017, 08:49:38 pm
Well I had booked the snowdon ranger youth hostel hoping that they might allow us to arrive late or allow my brother to pick up the keys for me (he lives up the hill in Rhosgadfan - just too much of a hill to want to do on top of the 600km!) but I got the answer of no chance today. So I will be cancelling that and hoping for a couple of hours at Kings...
I will be taking a camper van to the start for the night before and after - anyone know of anywhere I can park it to sleep in and to leave while we do this thing?
My first 600km (longest so far is 400km) and the idea of doing the willy warmer 3 times is just a little bit scary right now! At least it will be a little bit warmer by May!
Post by: mattc on 25 January, 2017, 12:57:29 pm
I've never driven to this event, but probably the most popular parking option is the Severn View Services (where the Travelodge is). It's further away than is ideal, but a very scenic short ride!
Of course they may not like a camper van being there overnight :-\ I don't know of anywhere quiet in town, but there are quiet lanes near the services at Aust village; people have also parked there.
And folks have parked at the actual Arrivee - again, not sure if a campervan would be welcome at a community hall, maybe check with the organiser? The car-park isn't big enough for a hundred riders, but for that reason folks park elsewhere.
Matt
(cos no one else seemed to have an answer for you!)
Post by: Redlight on 25 January, 2017, 03:00:14 pm
I've never driven to this event, but probably the most popular parking option is the Severn View Services (where the Travelodge is). It's further away than is ideal, but a very scenic short ride!
Of course they may not like a camper van being there overnight
If I recall, there's also a large parking area next to the services / Costa building that is used by truckers. I imagine some of them would be there overnight so there wouldn't be too much problem with a camper van. You can see it in this image, if I've linked correctly:
https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Aust,+Bristol/@51.6032012,-2.6228305,675m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x4871942f5aaaf029:0xcb2bb02ca63deb8b!8m2!3d51.5991956!4d-2.6202643 (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Aust,+Bristol/@51.6032012,-2.6228305,675m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x4871942f5aaaf029:0xcb2bb02ca63deb8b!8m2!3d51.5991956!4d-2.6202643)
Post by: Sezdavies on 25 January, 2017, 05:01:08 pm
Post by: Redlight on 25 January, 2017, 05:28:58 pm
Post by: tonyh on 25 January, 2017, 05:33:20 pm
https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=101492.0
Post by: Redlight on 19 February, 2017, 05:17:27 pm
Post by: veloboy on 19 February, 2017, 06:55:39 pm
Post by: Redlight on 25 February, 2017, 12:12:22 pm
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 25 February, 2017, 12:48:39 pm
Cheap return tickets from Bristol to London have gone on sale today :) £15 again (compared with £33 quoted a few days ago)Just bought my return on Sunday £11 to Reading.
BB
Post by: Phil W on 25 February, 2017, 12:58:17 pm
Thanks guys - they are not keen to have a campervan at the car park at the start, which I can understand. We could go into the services car park - it says £18.50 for 24 hours for a campervan - I can't find out anywhere online whether that can be 3 lots of £18.50 for 72 hours....I imagine it probably does. Or there is a campsite 6 miles away that looks good - just dunno if I can face adding 20km on!
There are showers at the services, so good for a post ride refresh. Not sure if you can pay for more than 24 hours in one go. If not you could park at the services Friday night, leave campervan on road parallel to A466 during event, then return to services Sunday night.
Post by: Carpe Diem on 10 March, 2017, 01:27:28 pm
I also have a room booked at the travel lodge for the Friday night.
So if anyone wants my place and/or room please contact me.
Thanks.
Rob
Post by: Carpe Diem on 10 March, 2017, 03:03:06 pm
I have just received a 522 word email rant from the events admin informing me that I cannot offer my place to anyone and i will lose my entrance fee.
It was also pointed out by her that despite knowing that i suffered from Gout I still entered anyway :o
Unfortunately I can't yet predict when these attacks might strike and I had been free of an attack for several months when I applied last year.
So sorry, my place is now no longer available for anyone else to make use of.
Post by: jsabine on 10 March, 2017, 03:17:50 pm
It's a shame you feel you've received a 'rant' from the organiser, but it's long-standing practice that entry fees to AUK events are not refundable, and nor are entries transferable - that's part of the bargain, including volunteer organisers and general low cost, and it is made clear on the entry forms. There's also an explanatory page on the website - http://www.aukweb.net/events/feespolicy/
Post by: Ian H on 10 March, 2017, 03:48:45 pm
Post by: Carpe Diem on 10 March, 2017, 03:50:51 pm
I didn't realise it was such a big deal.
I just thought that if I couldn't ride it then someone who missed out on a place could.
The entry fee is neither here nor there to be honest.
Post by: Carpe Diem on 10 March, 2017, 03:53:10 pm
But once again I just thought someone might want it that missed out on a room.
Post by: jsabine on 10 March, 2017, 05:44:36 pm
If you let the organiser know that you're not going to make it, and they're running a waiting list, they may be able to pass the place on to someone else - but that's entirely at their discretion.
As for the fees, there have been a (very) few occasions when withdrawing riders have got shirty, either with the organiser or publicly. It's never been terribly edifying.
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 10 March, 2017, 06:24:08 pm
1. The organiser has some sunk costs and one rider does not change the outlay. They need the money to run the event.
2. The organiser has enough to do and is running this in their free time and do not need extra admin.
3. To stop a load of people asking for a refund if two days before the weather forecast is really crap and there are mass drop outs.
Of these it is option 2 that applies here. Running an event like the BCM is a big job and they do not want to encourage people to apply and then back out later. The rule is there for good reasons and it is a risk we all take when applying for popular events. I have had to bunk some events because other commitments have come up before events.
BB
Post by: Ian H on 10 March, 2017, 06:55:55 pm
Post by: Carpe Diem on 10 March, 2017, 07:00:56 pm
I never asked for a refund, i asked if someone else could take my place as i knew the event was oversubscribed and people missed out on a place.
Post by: Ian H on 10 March, 2017, 07:13:59 pm
Considerations: There might be a waiting list with priority; or the organiser might have factored in a percentage of DNSes.
I appreciate that you intended to helpful and thanks for that, but the reality is that it complicates matters.
Post by: mattc on 10 March, 2017, 07:21:40 pm
I appreciate that you intended to helpful and thanks for that, but the reality is that people will still bang on about asking for refunds.
FTFY ;)
Post by: Ian H on 10 March, 2017, 07:25:23 pm
Post by: Carpe Diem on 10 March, 2017, 07:32:57 pm
I was told that they do not operate a waiting list and the ride was oversubscribed.
It was not pointed out to me at that point that i couldn't offer my place to another rider.
So i didnt see any harm in posting it on here to see if anyone wanted my place.
I certainly won't be doing that again!
Post by: mattc on 10 March, 2017, 07:47:26 pm
Matt—in this case they didn't.Hrumph.
Post by: jiberjaber on 10 March, 2017, 09:09:15 pm
The funny thing is, RM obvs didn't deliver it because they felt more postage was owed (it was 25p short from the looks of it) and then decided to return it to me in Essex, so it's probably cost them more to return it than it would have done to deliver it in the first place! ::-)
Post by: Ian H on 10 March, 2017, 10:34:52 pm
Post by: catswiskas on 10 March, 2017, 10:35:45 pm
[/b][/b][/color]
I did email the organiser first and asked if there was a reserve list of people waiting for a place.
I was told that they do not operate a waiting list and the ride was oversubscribed.
It was not pointed out to me at that point that i couldn't offer my place to another rider.
So i didnt see any harm in posting it on here to see if anyone wanted my place.
I certainly won't be doing that again!
my first response to him was:
"Thank you for letting us know. We are sorry that you won’t be able to ride the event. If this is because of health / fitness issues, then if you were able to help out at a control then we can offer you a place on the event next year (2018). If you would, then please let us know asap.
We do not operate a waiting list for the BCM 600 – we are currently over-subscribed, so your place will not be reallocated.
However, as there is pressure to find accommodation close to the event, I am sure that you will find an eager taker for your room.
Not quite sure how I could have made this clearer to you. You were offered the opportunity to transfer your place - perhaps i should have made it clear that there wouldn't have been a charge for your 2018 entry .
Read AUK Policy on Entries
"Whilst it is recognised that there are occasionally circumstances which prevent a rider taking the start of an audax event, Audax UK policy has always been that entry fees are NOT REFUNDABLE and NOT TRANSFERABLE."
It would be chaos with people swapping places behind the scenes.
Post by: Carpe Diem on 10 March, 2017, 10:59:56 pm
I have repeated what you said in your email!
There is no waiting list as I stated and the event is over subscribed..as I stated!
Where does it say I cant offer my place to another rider personally??
What has next years event got to do with this years?
Did I say I wanted to enter next years event? No!
And if i did , my understanding was it would only be offered if I volunteered to help.
But whilst you're re-posting emails...why don't you re-post the polite (not) response I received back?
Good grief, all I did was ask if anyone wanted my place as I couldn't ride and all this song and dance is made...have you got nothing better to do with your time?
Because the email you sent me stated you were far too busy change riders around yet you can spend all day batting emails back and forth and replying to forum post :o
Post by: jsabine on 10 March, 2017, 11:12:17 pm
The phrasing quoted currently reads more like a guaranteed place though, and parallels with other sorts of events that allow transfers (Ride London and the London Marathon, for a start) probably mean that if I read it, I'd expect to pay for next year as well as losing this year's fee. Nothing that a couple of extra words wouldn't sort, of course ...
As for not transferring entries to others, that's a general AUK rule and applies to every event. As I said up there somewhere^^^, it's on the entry form, and made more explicit on the page I linked to and catswiskas has quoted.
If you feel this isn't clear enough, AUK can certainly look again at the wording.
Post by: Hot Flatus on 10 March, 2017, 11:25:20 pm
How are my comments misleading?
I have repeated what you said in your email!
There is no waiting list as I stated and the event is over subscribed..as I stated!
Where does it say I cant offer my place to another rider personally??
What has next years event got to do with this years?
Did I say I wanted to enter next years event? No!
And if i did , my understanding was it would only be offered if I volunteered to help.
But whilst you're re-posting emails...why don't you re-post the polite (not) response I received back?
Good grief, all I did was ask if anyone wanted my place as I couldn't ride and all this song and dance is made...have you got nothing better to do with your time?
Because the email you sent me stated you were far too busy change riders around yet you can spend all day batting emails back and forth and replying to forum post :o
I think what you have to bear in mind, Carpe Diem, is that audax runs on volunteerism, and as a 'customer' you have to take the rough with the smooth to some extent. It's part of the deal. Nobody is going to be too tolerant for stuff which is too far outside of the envelope and you haven't really got any right to expect too much from the 'customer service' department.
At the end of the day, catswiskas has right on his/her side, and whilst you might think it was one teeny little request on your part, it might be just one of many, along with a whole load of bullshit that they end up dealing with because some people really are quite extraordinary.
You weren't to know, but now you do, so it's probably time to just let it go.
Post by: Carpe Diem on 10 March, 2017, 11:38:03 pm
Post by: Hot Flatus on 10 March, 2017, 11:48:44 pm
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 11 March, 2017, 06:08:34 am
I hope the gout gets better too :)I suffered with gout for a while. Drank less beer and stopped eating liver, kidneys, pork scratchings and sea food like oysters and shrimps. I was luck and it went away only to return on e in the last 19 years.
I do miss the food I cannot eat and once in a while have a small dip into the world of gout food. I did love that stuff.
Hope it gets better. It gave me the worst pain I have ever experienced.
BB
Post by: Carpe Diem on 11 March, 2017, 06:33:58 am
Yes it is very painful and debilitating when it strikes.
My doctor said it was a tendon problem for over a year and kept treating me with cortisone injections, but now after blood tests she has prescribed me Allopurinol, I have to take this for life now and it can take up to 2 years before it is 100% effective.
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 12 March, 2017, 08:47:45 pm
Thank you to both of you.I tried that drug stuff and gave it up for reducing the gout stuff in my diet, guess I was lucky. Have you tried reducing purine foods?
Yes it is very painful and debilitating when it strikes.
My doctor said it was a tendon problem for over a year and kept treating me with cortisone injections, but now after blood tests she has prescribed me Allopurinol, I have to take this for life now and it can take up to 2 years before it is 100% effective.
Steve
Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk
Post by: Carpe Diem on 12 March, 2017, 09:33:55 pm
I think the best thing to do is keep a food diary and monitor what sets an attack off and avoid it in the future.
Post by: redfalo on 18 April, 2017, 12:58:42 pm
Is anyone interested in my train tickets
I paid 47 pounds for the room from May 12 to 13 (Friday night), compared to 57 pounds if you book now.
Room for Sunday night (May 14 to 15) cost me 33 pounds, current price on website is 37 pounds.
I also booked an advance train ticket including bike reservation for the 19:12 train out of Paddington on May 12, arriving Bristol Parkway 20:36. Ticket price was 25.50 pounds. For the return trip, I booked the 12:03 train on Monday, May 15 arriving Paddington 13:32h.
I'd much prefer selling train tickets together, but am open to suggestions. Send me a PM if interested in either.
Cheers
Olaf
Post by: alotronic on 23 April, 2017, 01:21:34 pm
Post by: Simon_A on 24 April, 2017, 02:38:10 pm
The M4 Westbound Jn12 (Reading West/A4) to Jn 13 (Newbury/A34) will be completely shut over the BCM w/e according to new signage + here http://www.trafficengland.com/?evtID=1053083 (http://www.trafficengland.com/?evtID=1053083)
Starts Fri night 2100 and ends Mon morning 0600, so it could impact travel plans to/from S.Wales. It's only one junction and can be avoided easily enough by following the A4 via Thatcham/Newbury but that can get busy so best to know in advance.
See you in Chepstow!!!
Post by: redfalo on 24 April, 2017, 02:56:33 pm
Noooooooo........ That's bad news Olaf.
indeed, it's a bit of a bummer as I was really looking forward to the ride. But the work thing on Monday doesn't leave me a lot of choice.
Will do 2 400s in June instead (Strawberry & Asparagus and National 400).
Moreover, my train tickets are still available:
outbound: 19:12 train from Paddington on May 12, arriving Bristol Parkway 20:36. Ticket price was 25.50 pounds.
return: 12:03 train on Monday, May 15 arriving Paddington 13:32h.
Both have a bike reservation.
I'd prefer flogging both tickets together but would also sell them separately. If interested, send me a PM.
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 24 April, 2017, 03:01:48 pm
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 01 May, 2017, 02:53:22 pm
Post by: Redlight on 01 May, 2017, 03:08:13 pm
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 01 May, 2017, 03:55:34 pm
Have I missed an email with routesheet or gps?
Richie will get it out in time, in the last week before the ride. :thumbsup:
BB
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 01 May, 2017, 04:00:20 pm
Thanks :)Have I missed an email with routesheet or gps?
Richie will get it out in time, in the last week before the ride. :thumbsup:
BB
now I can worry about other stuff, like what to carry, and the weather. :-\
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 01 May, 2017, 04:05:47 pm
Or work out the most you can carry and leave it at that. You will then be prepared for anythingThanks :)Have I missed an email with routesheet or gps?
Richie will get it out in time, in the last week before the ride.
BB
now I can worry about other stuff, like what to carry, and the weather. :-\
Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk
Post by: Bagman on 04 May, 2017, 05:46:10 pm
Any suggestions for a place to eat locally without having to go over the bridge.
Post by: simonp on 04 May, 2017, 05:50:35 pm
Post by: Redlight on 04 May, 2017, 06:19:04 pm
The Boar's Head in Aust.
It will be full of AUKs - myself included - so you'll have plenty of company. :D
Post by: Hot Flatus on 04 May, 2017, 06:46:43 pm
Post by: Bagman on 04 May, 2017, 09:41:33 pm
Post by: Redlight on 05 May, 2017, 01:15:22 pm
Have I missed an email with routesheet or gps?
Richie will get it out in time, in the last week before the ride. :thumbsup:
BB
I've just noticed that there is a route sheet on the web site: http://chepstowaukevent.weebly.com/detailed-notes-and-route.html (http://chepstowaukevent.weebly.com/detailed-notes-and-route.html)
I don't know whether to expect an update though. There isn't a GPS so far as I can see.
Post by: mattc on 05 May, 2017, 01:40:31 pm
(This resulted in riders taking at least 2 different routes on the 1st leg - all good fun!)
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 05 May, 2017, 01:54:32 pm
Noticed the bit neatest chep stow seemed to be the same out and back, where previous years the return leg crossed the border.
Also seemed a touch under distance.
Waiting for a confirmed route before I upload the gps files to garmin.
Post by: Hot Flatus on 05 May, 2017, 02:44:43 pm
noticed the route sheet on the site. Used it to compile my own gps.
Noticed the bit neatest chep stow seemed to be the same out and back, where previous years the return leg crossed the border.
Also seemed a touch under distance.
Waiting for a confirmed route before I upload the gps files to garmin.
Shhhh....
Post by: Redlight on 05 May, 2017, 02:48:40 pm
Post by: swiss hat on 05 May, 2017, 07:58:45 pm
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 05 May, 2017, 09:21:44 pm
You're perfectly at liberty to ride up and down the road to Kings a couple of extra times ;)No doubts about the elevation gain. Perhaps an extra 2 crossings of the bridge at Barmouth.
Post by: Bagman on 05 May, 2017, 10:37:56 pm
Apart from the obvious reasons of not following the organiser's route etc are there any problems with coming back to Kings from Anglesey via Harlech and Barmouth Bridge?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 06 May, 2017, 01:17:29 am
Post by: Jasmine on 06 May, 2017, 09:45:09 am
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 06 May, 2017, 01:30:25 pm
I have a route query.I have not seen the route sheet. Will there be an info control on the official route?
Apart from the obvious reasons of not following the organiser's route etc are there any problems with coming back to Kings from Anglesey via Harlech and Barmouth Bridge?
BB
Post by: simonp on 06 May, 2017, 03:21:27 pm
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 06 May, 2017, 03:35:42 pm
shouldn't need infos as it is the shortest way back to penrhyndeudraeth. Infos needed on the Harlech route as it is not the shortest.I have a route query.I have not seen the route sheet. Will there be an info control on the official route?
Apart from the obvious reasons of not following the organiser's route etc are there any problems with coming back to Kings from Anglesey via Harlech and Barmouth Bridge?
BB
only a week to go.
Post by: Redlight on 06 May, 2017, 04:21:58 pm
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 06 May, 2017, 04:53:47 pm
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Post by: Bianchi Boy on 06 May, 2017, 06:13:24 pm
Infos at Harlech and Llanberis, according to the route sheet.I have looked up the provisional route sheet and there are no info controls on it. I assume that the finalised route sheet will be sent out this week and there may be some info controls inserted :thumbsup:
Post by: JohnL on 06 May, 2017, 07:20:05 pm
Is it the same as last year? I had forgotten that a provisional touted sheet has been sent out some time ago.
Has it? When? I've not had anything since the confirmation I was in.
John
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 06 May, 2017, 07:44:43 pm
I received the provisional route sheet on the 29th March. The route looks the same as last year.Is it the same as last year? I had forgotten that a provisional touted sheet has been sent out some time ago.
Has it? When? I've not had anything since the confirmation I was in.
John
Nothing by mail since.
BB
Post by: JohnL on 06 May, 2017, 08:07:56 pm
Will be plotting it to GPS tomorrow...
John
Post by: Bagman on 06 May, 2017, 08:57:35 pm
Routesheet arrived today and there will be a bag drop at Kings.
Post by: simonp on 06 May, 2017, 09:03:20 pm
Post by: Martyn Wheeler on 06 May, 2017, 09:59:27 pm
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13375180
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Post by: simonp on 08 May, 2017, 11:14:10 am
Hoping for my 8th successful ride.
Post by: Redlight on 08 May, 2017, 11:20:40 am
However, I will still be carrying a route sheet and map - just in case!
Post by: DrMekon on 08 May, 2017, 12:09:11 pm
The Boar's Head in Aust.
We shall be dining at 6.30. I won't have my teeth in, so apologies if I don't smile, and double apologies if I do.
Post by: simonp on 08 May, 2017, 12:19:46 pm
Post by: Veloman on 08 May, 2017, 12:28:26 pm
However, I will still be carrying a route sheet and map - just in case!
Essential IMO when following that GPS thingy!
Post by: Redlight on 08 May, 2017, 01:20:21 pm
We shall be dining at 6.30. I won't have my teeth in, so apologies if I don't smile, and double apologies if I do.
I'll probably be down there at about the same time - fuelling up before an early night. Breakfast options at Severn View are not great.
Post by: simonp on 08 May, 2017, 02:24:06 pm
Best I not snore too much.
Post by: Martyn Wheeler on 08 May, 2017, 05:32:20 pm
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Post by: DrMekon on 08 May, 2017, 08:26:11 pm
http://www.weatherbagel.com/f/35612a9b-3d3f-4ac9-bf60-b2ccc31a4663
Layering up waterproofs, or something properly warm?
Post by: Whitedown Man on 08 May, 2017, 08:38:06 pm
Post by: DrMekon on 08 May, 2017, 08:56:10 pm
Post by: simonp on 08 May, 2017, 09:38:05 pm
If you are worried though, use the drop bag facility and if you're behind schedule you ca. Take some warmer clothes (and dry ones) at Kings.
Post by: Redlight on 08 May, 2017, 09:39:27 pm
Post by: inappropriate_bike on 08 May, 2017, 09:48:27 pm
Being too cold to ride safely, and to cold to stop without dying, is not fun at all.
Post by: DrMekon on 08 May, 2017, 09:51:42 pm
Post by: Touring Sec on 08 May, 2017, 10:16:10 pm
Post by: veloboy on 08 May, 2017, 11:02:41 pm
The run back to King's is usually OK, though sometime verging on feeling 'fresh' (from a 'Welsh' perspective)!
Carry on to Aberhafesp is where it can become particularly *COLD* - Especially when descending Cross Foxes...
On other years I've ridden it has been warm (almost) too ride in shorts with just a jersey and arm warmers.
The bag drop should offer you some insurance against this for sure!
Post by: Martyn Wheeler on 09 May, 2017, 06:36:58 am
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Post by: simonp on 09 May, 2017, 03:37:31 pm
Post by: DrMekon on 09 May, 2017, 04:34:31 pm
I can't wear warm gloves when it's warm.
Big beards make buffs somewhat redundant
I <3 my Morvelo Stormshield gear
I can cope with overshoes even when it's warm
My discs need adjusting
Everything fits in my Alpkit bags, but if I may as well swap the ass saver for my ortlieb pack and then I can get away without a bag drop.
(https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/18358647_10102279569820970_495028378890047423_o.jpg?oh=79d0d56b22076f123e499107e52395dd&oe=59814EBA)
Post by: simonp on 09 May, 2017, 04:45:02 pm
I'm going to try doing an opener workout on Friday. So I could be knackered at the start.
Post by: alotronic on 09 May, 2017, 04:57:58 pm
Post by: simonp on 09 May, 2017, 05:03:40 pm
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 09 May, 2017, 05:25:27 pm
Post by: D O G on 09 May, 2017, 05:58:18 pm
Post by: BlackSheep on 09 May, 2017, 07:20:50 pm
I think there's less climbing on the Harlech road - once you've reached Penrhyndeudraeth the coast road is rolling, whereas the official route from Maentwrog (bus shelter place) to Trawsfynydd is very definitely a solid climb.Agreed, it's a good old climb, the first year I rode it for reasons completely unknown, I put my head down and pedalled - I dropped everyone in my group, caught the next group. They kept ranting at Dave to do his bit on the front. It became apparent that I was Dave (in fact Dave had dropped back into the group I had been in). So I got on the front and rode away from them as we went over the top and down the hill.
Coast road is a bit longer though.This might come as a shock, but the coast road will be shorter, not by much - but certainly shorter*.
As to the climbing, the coast road will be flatter in both directions. Surprisingly though, not by much.
A strong southerly or south westerly wind will also make that stretch harder - it is quite exposed in some areas.Agreed, the coast road is great going north when the naturally prevailing coast winds blow, the biggest hindrance are the cars when you're passing through some of the villages.
If one decided to take the longer option going North, the A470 going north isn't without cars slowing cyclists progress, once you're on the drop passing Trawsfynydd, cars braking will hinder progress.
* assuming you're comparing both of this year's routes up and down between the Penrhyndeudraeth cross and the bottom of the lane from the A493.
Post by: simonp on 09 May, 2017, 10:30:05 pm
Post by: veloboy on 09 May, 2017, 10:36:14 pm
Post by: alotronic on 10 May, 2017, 11:46:22 am
A
Post by: Redlight on 10 May, 2017, 12:15:27 pm
... it’s the same as last year and is attached.
Info controls have changed.
I think you're safe ;)
Post by: mattc on 10 May, 2017, 12:17:02 pm
Quoting from an email I received from Ritchie last Friday:... unless last year's Info controls are marked on his track!
... it’s the same as last year and is attached.
Info controls have changed.
I think you're safe ;)
Post by: alotronic on 10 May, 2017, 01:04:33 pm
Quoting from an email I received from Ritchie last Friday:
... it’s the same as last year and is attached.
Info controls have changed.
I think you're safe ;)
I have that email and have read it too. Too much to do this week! Thanks RL and see you Saturday!
A
Post by: Somnolent on 10 May, 2017, 06:03:40 pm
Quoting from an email I received from Ritchie last Friday:
... it’s the same as last year and is attached.
Info controls have changed.
I think you're safe ;)
The only one you need worry about is the one at Macynlleth - which is at the previous T junction to the one it was at last year.
The other two are at more or less same locations as last year's (but of course the questions will have changed)
... unless last year's Info controls are marked on his track!
Post by: LiamFitz on 10 May, 2017, 06:05:40 pm
I am booked in at the Two Rivers Lodge in Chepstow. Anyone else staying Friday night in town?When the give your room ask for one at the back of the building - i.e not facing the car park between the hotel and the pub. It's pretty noisy and smoky at night
Post by: Ian H on 10 May, 2017, 06:34:48 pm
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13375180
Thanks for that. I've reduced the whole lot to tracks totalling 118kb, including waypoints for all controls. Suitable for an Etrex.
Post by: Bagman on 10 May, 2017, 07:28:01 pm
How accurate are the weather forecasts?
Post by: Redlight on 10 May, 2017, 08:38:06 pm
Anybody any idea what the weather is going to do????
How accurate are the weather forecasts?
This usually sums it up:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OeYEyCDRHmE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OeYEyCDRHmE)
(More seriously, the overall forecast is looking rather pleasant with mid-teen temperatures and light winds during the days, but it's a brave AUK that would risk going over Snowdon twice without being prepared to get wet and cold.)
Post by: Ian gaggiaport on 10 May, 2017, 09:15:34 pm
Post by: inappropriate_bike on 10 May, 2017, 09:40:54 pm
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 10 May, 2017, 10:01:53 pm
last check tomorrow will decide which bike the new chain gets fitted to.
Post by: trickedem on 10 May, 2017, 11:13:45 pm
I have RWGPS routes plotted from last year - the route has not changed as far as I can tell so I'm going to use them. Here is a link to the first if anyone wants a copy -Thanks Martyn. I diligently plotted these last year, then left them in a download folder, which I tidied up....doh You've saved me doing this again
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13375180
Post by: simonp on 11 May, 2017, 12:08:45 am
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13375180
Thanks for that. I've reduced the whole lot to tracks totalling 118kb, including waypoints for all controls. Suitable for an Etrex.
Ah, you will be joining us?
Post by: Hing on 11 May, 2017, 03:15:35 am
Post by: Ian H on 11 May, 2017, 08:33:12 am
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13375180
Thanks for that. I've reduced the whole lot to tracks totalling 118kb, including waypoints for all controls. Suitable for an Etrex.
Ah, you will be joining us?
It would be rude not to.
Post by: Redlight on 11 May, 2017, 09:49:12 am
Sorry if I missed this in the thread, will the start be open from the night before?
I don't think so. There's no mention of it in the ride notes although ISTR on some past occasions people have pitched tents on the bit of grass next to the hall!
Post by: DrMekon on 11 May, 2017, 11:27:09 am
looking nice
Post by: simonp on 11 May, 2017, 11:40:22 am
Just got a final update from Richie Tout - 200 entries!!!
Could be a good time to ride through if Kings is rammed at 2am. Will be using the drop bag facility, change of clothes at 200/400k would be ideal.
Post by: LeFlic on 11 May, 2017, 12:01:09 pm
Can anyone confirm the Control times for Aberhafesp and Weobly?
I have done a quick calculation using the min/max speeds allowed but it would be handy to have a confirmation of the listed times.
( I will be hacking round Wales on a motorbike so I am pretty flexible on the times)
Thanks
Post by: simonp on 11 May, 2017, 12:10:33 pm
440km for Aber is 20.40-11.20. 491km at Llandrindod is 10.20-14.45. All approx.
Also it's only 595km?!
Post by: simonp on 11 May, 2017, 12:57:13 pm
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 11 May, 2017, 01:15:01 pm
Don't think Woebley is a control any more? Indeed is at Llandrindod Wells.
440km for Aber is 20.40-11.20. 491km at Llandrindod is 10.20-14.45. All approx.
Also it's only 595km?!
607km for those of us riding to/from the Severn View travelidge. I won't feel guilty.
Dr mekon's weatherbagel seems to be based on 23kmh :o
had a dream this morning that I got to the end and had failed to get proof at one of the controls, must stay focused at the weekend.
Post by: Bagman on 11 May, 2017, 01:19:06 pm
Post by: Chris N on 11 May, 2017, 01:31:44 pm
So, how fixed friendly is this route via Staylittle? It replaces one of the most benign sections of the old route over the A44.
Not very. Might be worth following the Severn round the western side of Llyn Clywedog to Staylittle. Adds about 6km but avoids 5 chevrons. The climb through Dylife is OK-ish, and the descent to Mach is hell.
Post by: Redlight on 11 May, 2017, 01:36:50 pm
So, how fixed friendly is this route via Staylittle? It replaces one of the most benign sections of the old route over the A44.
Looks like a 7-8km slog uphill after Stayllittle, gaining about 200m, then 12km of almost unbroken descent back down virtually to sea level. Even with gears I like the sound of a lakeside ride :)
Post by: simonp on 11 May, 2017, 01:38:22 pm
Post by: Kangaroocourt on 11 May, 2017, 01:43:01 pm
Don't think Woebley is a control any more? Indeed is at Llandrindod Wells.
440km for Aber is 20.40-11.20. 491km at Llandrindod is 10.20-14.45. All approx.
Also it's only 595km?!
607km for those of us riding to/from the Severn View travelidge. I won't feel guilty.
Dr mekon's weatherbagel seems to be based on 23kmh :o
had a dream this morning that I got to the end and had failed to get proof at one of the controls, must stay focused at the weekend.
Wouldn't mind tagging along if there's a group heading over from the Travelodge. I promise not to talk at that hour!
Post by: Martyn Wheeler on 11 May, 2017, 02:04:04 pm
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Post by: Clemo on 11 May, 2017, 02:09:09 pm
Fortunately Wales is know for it's arid climate. People come from all over the world to see the parched cacti, and it is widely believed that the reason Welsh sheep developed such thick fleeces was to provide some protection against the relentless sun.That is funny :thumbsup: :thumbsup: ;D
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 11 May, 2017, 02:26:13 pm
What time are people setting off from the travel lodge?hadn't really thought about it. off the top of my head, think I'll set my alarm for 5, leave 5.15, reach community centre at 5.30 try to get something to eat before starting. will there be food at the start? or do we need to bring our own?
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Post by: simonp on 11 May, 2017, 03:11:39 pm
I'm going to drive over from the T/L and will have some Huel ready to make up first thing, it will keep me from getting hungry on the ride to Bronllys for proper breakfast.
Post by: Hing on 11 May, 2017, 05:58:47 pm
So, how fixed friendly is this route via Staylittle? It replaces one of the most benign sections of the old route over the A44.
Looks like a 7-8km slog uphill after Stayllittle, gaining about 200m, then 12km of almost unbroken descent back down virtually to sea level. Even with gears I like the sound of a lakeside ride :)
Not going fixed, but thought about changing into mtb pedals, as the climb (walk) pass Penmachno in a 400 wore down my road cleats quite a bit; the slippage, not to mentioned to filmsy engagement on the descent... but this sounds handle-able with compact crankset ???
Post by: veloboy on 11 May, 2017, 11:08:42 pm
Post by: Martyn Wheeler on 12 May, 2017, 06:48:05 am
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Post by: Redlight on 12 May, 2017, 12:02:17 pm
Post by: al-c on 12 May, 2017, 01:03:34 pm
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 12 May, 2017, 01:43:45 pm
Post by: simonp on 12 May, 2017, 03:06:46 pm
It comes out in TrackLogs as 11,000m of ascent. Fear not, for this seems to be about 400m less than claimed for the 2004 (i.e. the most recent previous) route.
It'll be on fixed, with a 65" gear, and no deviations, except perhaps I might take the scenic route out of Dolgellau on Sunday morning, just because it's nicer than the main road climb.
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 12 May, 2017, 03:34:52 pm
It comes out in TrackLogs as 11,000m of ascent.Mapping websites vary wildly in climbing estimations. The actual climb will be closer to the advertised value. There are many discussions on this topic but it comes down to the surface of the earth is divided into rectangles and the whole rectangle gets the same height. The bigger the rectangle the wilder the value. Also if it only takes the altitude at the track points or makes some type of estimation between the points.
I have done this ride before and it feels like about 7,000m
BB
Post by: simonp on 12 May, 2017, 03:39:17 pm
Post by: Sezdavies on 12 May, 2017, 04:41:26 pm
Post by: Somnolent on 12 May, 2017, 05:28:04 pm
Might be worth following the Severn round the western side of Llyn Clywedog to Staylittle. Adds about 6km but avoids 5 chevrons. The climb through Dylife is OK-ish, and the descent to Mach is hell.
That's what I did last year - lovely gentle rise through the woods with almost zero traffic. (on NCN 8 - not following lakesiide) Stop at top to observe osprey nest near lake. No realistic way of avoiding the 200 climb past Dyliffe though.
Post by: Hot Flatus on 12 May, 2017, 05:54:10 pm
Post by: veloboy on 12 May, 2017, 07:56:52 pm
Post by: inappropriate_bike on 12 May, 2017, 07:57:55 pm
I was merrilly pedalling away chatting to someone when I noticed my Garmin was showing us as off course.
Then the chap who was leading me astray professed to know a diversion that was better than the organisers route.
(10 bonus km and one trunk A road later, we got back on the right route with a little help from Google maps.)
Post by: cgg on 12 May, 2017, 08:02:14 pm
Fear not - some new weather will be along in ten minutes :)
It's true! Forecast looking much better now :thumbsup:
Post by: wilkyboy on 13 May, 2017, 01:08:20 pm
Post by: hellymedic on 13 May, 2017, 02:09:22 pm
*whispers* Have they started yet? Does Wales not have the Internet?
Hope it's not on Windows xp...
Post by: Bikeabilityman on 13 May, 2017, 03:11:36 pm
Post by: inappropriate_bike on 14 May, 2017, 10:22:57 am
Post by: hellymedic on 14 May, 2017, 11:30:09 am
Post by: DrMekon on 14 May, 2017, 12:13:12 pm
Post by: Martyn Wheeler on 14 May, 2017, 12:38:56 pm
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Post by: Martyn Wheeler on 14 May, 2017, 12:39:20 pm
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Post by: Martyn Wheeler on 14 May, 2017, 12:40:00 pm
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Post by: DrMekon on 14 May, 2017, 01:27:52 pm
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Post by: Wycombewheeler on 14 May, 2017, 11:46:44 pm
Can't thank the volunteers and organiser enough, so much work goes into feeding a horde of hungry randoneurs, with quick service allowing minimal time lost at controls.
It seems I accidentally botched my gpx route, so the climb from Dolgellau to cross foxes went through Tabor instead of using the A470, seemed like a nice climb on a quiet hedge lined road rather than the A road. It did seem steep, but I can't compare gradients as I've never taken the other way.
The descent into Machynlleth may just be the best road I have ridden. A cracking long descent with sweeping curves and amazing scenery, still not enough to encourage me to climb back up again.
Post by: simonp on 15 May, 2017, 12:27:03 am
Post by: the straggler on 15 May, 2017, 12:31:54 am
from East Anglia during the event. Much preferred the rainfall and mild night temperatures in Llanberis compared with last year dry chilly night air. Only managed 30 minute short nap at Kings YHA but still had a good time during the ride. Thanks to Ritchie and all helpers in providing efficient service and good menu choices at controls :thumbsup:
Post by: adam w on 15 May, 2017, 07:15:32 am
Post by: nolongertries on 15 May, 2017, 09:16:39 am
Post by: tonyh on 15 May, 2017, 09:32:44 am
Post by: Ian H on 15 May, 2017, 12:39:11 pm
Post by: simonp on 15 May, 2017, 01:03:17 pm
I'm now only one 400k ride away from Ultra.
Post by: Redlight on 15 May, 2017, 02:32:57 pm
It was very different on the way back. I had issues on the way north with unclipping when pulling up on the pedals, so walked some hills I might've been able to get up on the Staylittle road. Didn't eat enough at the first two controls due to queues; I paid for this later.
Having spoken to you up on the hills after Menai and then at Kings, I admire the fact that you carried on and finished - a reminder that completing these long distance rides is as much about what goes on in your head as what strength you have in your legs.
Post by: Clemo on 15 May, 2017, 02:33:07 pm
ANyone know how long the climb out of Newtown is (On the main road) it seemed to go on forever, not steep but on this occation a rather engery sapping headwind made it more difficult.
Mach mountain road, as per usual didn't disapoint that view is stunning it really is! :thumbsup:
I had a pretty tough over night period I had the dozies not helped by a heavy week at work so had arrived at the event tired before I had even begun, however a couple of pro plus and a bite to eat sorted me out and by the time I had arrived at Kings for the second time I didn't feel too bad.
Rather than try for a bunk I used my bivvy bag and curled up for an hour in the bag drop room, even the loud snoring didn't prevent me from having some sleep.
The feature on the way back was the wind, although it didn't seem much of a hindrance after Llandrindod Wells I was glad to get over the Col du Alpaca and could see the towers of the Severn Bridge lit up by the sun.
Post by: Redlight on 15 May, 2017, 02:40:14 pm
ANyone know how long the climb out of Newtown is (On the main road) it seemed to go on forever, not steep but on this occation a rather engery sapping headwind made it more difficult.
13km according to my Garmin. I was a bit disappointed at the top to discover that there was no corresponding 13km descent :'(
Post by: simonp on 15 May, 2017, 02:47:11 pm
Post by: Bagman on 15 May, 2017, 02:52:40 pm
The scenery in the Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia is stunning worth the climbing!! The descents were amazing especially Dylife down to Machynlleth and Pen-Y-Pass to Llanberis, on this descent Garmin showed 80kph at one point.
What a way to complete a second consecutive SR.
Post by: Somnolent on 15 May, 2017, 03:54:58 pm
But happy to finish - unlike two(?) poor chaps for whom the ride ended in trips to A&E following problems on descents.
Post by: simonp on 15 May, 2017, 04:00:52 pm
That's 210 rpm.
Post by: Martyn Wheeler on 15 May, 2017, 04:22:47 pm
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Post by: Ian H on 15 May, 2017, 04:52:57 pm
My maximum was only 67kph.
That's 210 rpm.
Teehee! That's an impressive ride, Mr P.
I didn't have the best of starts, having overslept in Chepstow. I got the the start at about 6. Everyone left while I was having tea and a welsh cake. Then I realised that I'd left vital stuff in the car, so had to go back down to the town to retrieve it. It was near Builth that I first caught up with anyone.
Post by: simonp on 15 May, 2017, 05:48:12 pm
Post by: Ian H on 15 May, 2017, 06:15:08 pm
I've been told we're doing seat racing for Monmouth Regatta tomorrow. With 600km in my legs. Guess you'll be getting an entry for the Old Road 300k after all. :facepalm:
I shan't insist you ride fixed. Though, of course, should you wish to...
Post by: simonp on 15 May, 2017, 08:48:53 pm
Post by: alotronic on 16 May, 2017, 10:20:04 am
It was very different on the way back. I had issues on the way north with unclipping when pulling up on the pedals, so walked some hills I might've been able to get up on the Staylittle road. Didn't eat enough at the first two controls due to queues; I paid for this later.
Having spoken to you up on the hills after Menai and then at Kings, I admire the fact that you carried on and finished - a reminder that completing these long distance rides is as much about what goes on in your head as what strength you have in your legs.
Amen to that. I was ok on this one and it being my first non-flat(lands) 600 I was a bit surprised by that. I expected to be a little more, umm, negative but was fine. I was concentrating on good mental management as much as food and was consciously catching myself at moments where my mood threatened to dip and talked myself back into a good frame of mind quickly. Strangely singing songs internally (not out loud) really helped and also preserved the ears of fellow travelers.
And well done RL 8)
Amazing volunteers and I got no weird looks at all when asking for GF options, very very much appreciated!
Post by: Ian H on 16 May, 2017, 11:15:08 am
I just remembered the buzzard that swooped low over the road ahead of me after Rhayader. Beautiful. I kept poking over my shoulder for a while after that.
Well... that's a good omen for a completely different event.
Post by: simonp on 16 May, 2017, 11:52:15 am
Post by: Ian H on 16 May, 2017, 12:05:58 pm
Poking? ::-)...a Buzzard; or an Exe-Buzzard.
Post by: mattc on 16 May, 2017, 01:08:55 pm
Post by: Whitedown Man on 16 May, 2017, 01:14:53 pm
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 16 May, 2017, 02:29:19 pm
(it was more than likely a Red Kite in that area, but that would ruin this bit of the thread, so I shan't point it out ... )There could have been a peacock around too.
Post by: simonp on 16 May, 2017, 02:56:06 pm
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 16 May, 2017, 03:05:48 pm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/devon/3828903.stm
According to the RSPB, buzzards occasionally live up to 25 years in the wild, so that one could even still be around!
https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/bird-and-wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/b/buzzard/nesting.aspx
Post by: Ian H on 16 May, 2017, 03:43:02 pm
Post by: simonp on 16 May, 2017, 10:05:15 pm
I've been told we're doing seat racing for Monmouth Regatta tomorrow. With 600km in my legs. Guess you'll be getting an entry for the Old Road 300k after all. :facepalm:
I shan't insist you ride fixed. Though, of course, should you wish to...
Amazingly I did ok and made the cut. It would be bad form to ride a 300k the day before a regatta so I will have to leave this til some other time (guess I'm not quitting Audax after all).
Post by: trickedem on 17 May, 2017, 10:33:44 pm
I had a really bad attack of the dozies from 8pm onwards and tried to fight these off with a nap at Bedgellert, Menai and some bus shelters and even a phone box. By the time I got back to Dolgellau, although I still had plenty of time, I had lost the desire to carry on and decided to catch the train back to Abergavenny. After a couple of days of recovery I really regret my decision. I should have remembered all those other times when I have felt the same and then felt so much better once the day brightened up. I have nearly sorted out the appetite problems that have plagued my longer audax rides. I just need to sort out this sleeping thing!
I took a few pictures.
https://flic.kr/s/aHskVFxDzA
Post by: Redlight on 18 May, 2017, 09:33:55 am
I took a few pictures.
https://flic.kr/s/aHskVFxDzA
Some great shots there, Tim, and it was good to meet you. I'm not sure about the one of the ugly fat bloke sticking his tongue out, though. (I don't even recall seeing you take it) The rear view was arguably more attractive ;). Sorry to hear that you packed, but the ride will still be there next year and you can enjoy the delights of the Newtown-Llandrindod road then.
Incidentally, does anyone know who puts out the "go go go" sign near Corris? Thre's been a variation on it every time I've done the ride and it's always brought a smile.
Post by: swiss hat on 18 May, 2017, 11:17:05 am
Post by: catswiskas on 18 May, 2017, 12:36:43 pm
"Advice re Specialized headshocks
I thought it was worth posting a note about an incident on last weekend’s BCM. A rider discovered that her Specialized Ruby bike with a suspension system within the steerer meant that the steerer was not part of the fork.
The design is that the steerer slots into the fork crown and is held in place with a collar. This collar is very thin and secured with a 4mm allen headed bolt. All of this is hidden by a plastic cover with the allen bolt being accessed through the side of this.
It looks like it vibrated loose on the ride up to King’s but when she got there the bars no longer turned the fork.
I have contacted Specialized but have not had a reply from them yet. However, it is worth being aware of this problem as it is a system which is unique to Specialized and it is not obvious how it works – at least it wasn’t to us to start off with as nobody considered the possibility that the steerer column was not part of the fork.
I wonder whether AUK should keep a repository of incidents of this kind? Had this rider crashed, I suspect anyone would have thought that the crash was what caused the loose steerer.
We also had a catastrophic failure of a Trek headset bearing. The headset arrangement looked very flimsy in view of the forces transmitted through the headset bearings but it just splintered into several bits and left the bike unrideable."
If you have one of these - do check it. It may be a one - off or possibly more widespread, so collecting data is handy...
Post by: rogerzilla on 21 May, 2017, 12:19:41 pm
Post by: PneumaticBliss on 21 May, 2017, 06:10:30 pm
I always like reading about the BCM since the prospects of me ever having the fitness, determination or quantities of Sundocrem required to ride across Wales and back are right up there with me winning the Tour de France. Chapeau!
I thought that for years and then I did it! It's definitely not as hard as winning le tour!
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 01 June, 2017, 08:36:18 pm
Post by: cgg on 07 June, 2017, 11:23:45 pm
An occasion to thank again Ritchie and the team for making this happen. This was my first 600 and what a ride it was!
(I'm also wondering if I should worry that it is not appearing yet in my results on aukweb.net)
Post by: Ian H on 08 June, 2017, 12:06:46 am
Post by: alotronic on 13 June, 2017, 10:37:07 pm
https://audaxery.wordpress.com/2017/06/13/bryan-chapman-was-a-nice-man-who-must-have-liked-hills-a-lot/ (https://audaxery.wordpress.com/2017/06/13/bryan-chapman-was-a-nice-man-who-must-have-liked-hills-a-lot/)
Post by: the straggler on 14 June, 2017, 12:15:46 am
My hamster impression at the 1st control in Bronllys appeared to have paid off on the hills, having an energy crash would be my worst fear on a lumpy terrain.
Post by: alotronic on 14 June, 2017, 09:59:12 am
Post by: Redlight on 14 June, 2017, 02:59:12 pm
I was sorry to see you all go when I stopped to get water in Beddgelert. I could see the three of you up ahead for quite a large part of the climb but I wasn't quite energetic enough to bridge the gap. Then, at the top, I didn't want to stop and start getting cold so carried on while you were all doing your Clark Kent routines in the shelter. You should have stayed a bit longer at the Menai control - by the time I left the rain had pretty much stopped and I had a lovely dry ride back to Kings ;) ;) :smug:
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 29 June, 2017, 05:59:09 pm
Good evening, I finally got my disposable camera of the moment processed, so here are a few pictures (https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B6RTCJtIn4gGeWVxaDBJT3d3azA). I Hope you enjoy them :)Results are up now. With the ACP number too.
An occasion to thank again Ritchie and the team for making this happen. This was my first 600 and what a ride it was!
(I'm also wondering if I should worry that it is not appearing yet in my results on aukweb.net)
Post by: cgg on 30 June, 2017, 11:00:12 am